Staying in the pink of health and having a healthy diet has never been more important. There is a rising demand for alternative diets such as vegan and gluten-free meals, locally sourced produce, and meat-free alternatives. However, fans of Japanese food would know that Meatless Mondays are not the easiest endeavour.
And that’s why Japanese restaurant chain Sushi Tei has recently launched a seasonal, meat-free menu for the conscious diner. Working together with food importer Country Foods and plant-based meat maker Growthwell Group, it took Sushi Tei months of research and recipe-testing before landing on its current line-up. Available from now until 13 October 2020, you can now enjoy the Kenko Feast – five hearty plates of meatless Japanese dishes, including maki rolls and omurice!
Maki rolls are a staple Japanese dish for many Singaporeans, and Sushi Tei’s plant-based rendition is their Shokubutsu Ebi Roll ($9.80++), which comes with minced mock meat and prawns. Prefer a fruity kick in your maki roll? Go for the Shokubutsu BBQ Ham Roll ($7.80++), that’s made with plant-based ham and topped off with some mayonnaise and fresh mango.
If you’re after some warm and comforting food, Sushi Tei also has the Shokubutsu Curry Omurice ($13.80++). This hearty plate of omurice features plant-based beef, Japanese curry and mushrooms. Do note, however, that this dish is is non-vegan-friendly as fresh eggs are used in the omelette.
The other dishes in Sushi Tei’s meatless menu also includes the Shokubutsu Hamburg ($10.80++), which features a plant-based patty that’s served atop rice, avocado, and shimeji mushrooms. Want lighter bites instead? You can look forward to the konnyaku-based Shokubutsu Fish Nugget ($9.80), which is a high-fibre and low-calorie option.
As with most meatless alternatives, the textures might take some getting used to. But otherwise, the food tastes pretty close to the real thing – only healthier for you and the environment! It is also worth noting that Sushi Tei’s meatless menu is not entirely plant-based. Apart from the use of egg in their omurice, the soy sauce used in the restaurant is still fish-based, and the restaurant also uses the same cooking utensils and oil for both their meatless and regular dishes.
And if you just cannot be in a Japanese restaurant without getting some fresh seafood, we totally understand, and it seems like Sushi Tei does too. The Kenko Feast also features the Sashimi Moriawase ($26.80++), which includes the real stuff like chutoro (tuna belly), salmon, yellowtail, and scallop. Sounds like there’s something for everyone!