Chestnuts - A new vegan favourite?

摘要

You know a trend's here to stay when even the major players take note. What do famous ice cream brands such as Ben & Jerry's, Magnum and Cornetto have in common? They've all had a vegan range join the ranks over the past year. What with the 300 per cent rise in the plant-based population during the last decade and health advocates claiming vegan ice creams are higher in protein content and essential fatty acids, the outlook for dairy-free treats is looking pretty damn sweet. That said, there are still challenges to be dealt with when it comes to recipe innovation, a key component of which has traditionally been milk. So far, we've seen a range of replacements, such as soya, avocado and tahini. However, one ingredient that is yet to be utilised could just be a new fan favourite in the plant-based world, particularly ice cream. That ingredient is chestnuts. Although these sweet, crumbly nuts are enjoyed all year round in certain regions in France, Spain and Italy, in the UK they're still finding it hard to shake off that 'roasting on an open fire' reputation. However, British ingredients supplier Porter Foods reckons it's about time to take this ingredient out of its seasonal box.