Over 300,000 people in the UK alone took part in Veganuary this year. It is the biggest year on record and major mainstream brands really upped the anti, including Pizza Hut, the infamous Greggs, even Quorn improved their vegan offering (can’t believe they still need to use eggs for most of their products, but oh well). Animal farmers across the UK are even becoming vegan due to the fact that it has now been unequivocally proven that a vegan lifestyle is healthier for you and the planet.
I had the pleasure of visiting the Poland Street (Soho) branch of Comptoir Libanais last week and exploring their vegan feasting menu which includes a mezze of two starters, a main and a dessert.
The healthy and guilt free dishes include a mezze selection of Red Peppers Hommos – Smooth chickpea puree with tahina and red peppers, virgin olive oil, served with pita bread and a Quinoa Tabbouleh – Chopped parsley, quinoa, tomatoes, mint and onions with a lemon and olive oil dressing.
For the main course, diners can enjoy either the delicious Couscous Salad with grilled peppers, roasted squash and mixed nuts or an Aubergine Tagine – Baked baby aubergine in a rich tomato & chickpea sauce.
For dessert there is a Coconut Mouhalabia and Mixed Dried Fruit – A traditional Lebanese milk pudding made using coconut milk and topped with toasted pistachios.
Hopefully they’ll look to keep this on further than just January, but it’s a start! Also note that a lot of their dishes are already vegan, so all you need to do is ask!
Comptoir Libanais has 21 restaurants around the country and one in the Netherlands, including nine in central London.