Vegan Kedgeree

In place of smoked salmon, a vegan kedgeree of spiced basmati rice, lentils, and soft chunks of marinated jackfruit is served. Traditional kedgeree is a rice meal that is gently spicy and accompanied with smoked salmon and cooked eggs. It is a delicious combination of quite easy ingredients that looks and tastes fantastic.

Ingredients

For the Vegan Kedgeree:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 can young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and shredded
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the lentils: In a saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and enough water to cover them by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the jackfruit: Shred the jackfruit by pulling it apart with your fingers or a fork. Make sure to remove any tough core pieces.
3. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices.
6. Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until it begins to brown and take on the flavors of the spices.
7. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and bring to a simmer. Allow the jackfruit to cook in the broth for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
8. Add the cooked lentils, frozen peas, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 350-400
• Total Fat: 10-12g
• Saturated Fat: 1-2g
• Sodium: 500-600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Dietary Fiber: 14-16g
• Sugars: 5-7g
• Protein: 15-18g