taste test
PLANT-BASED GELATO Chi ca g o, IL
Staff fave
CHILI CRISP Austi n, T X
From viral TikTok recipes to the shelves of Whole Foods, one thing is clear: we’re living in the age of chili crisp. While the crunchy, oil-infused condiment is a longtime staple in Chinese cuisine, it’s recently developed a cult following in the US. And in Austin, AUSTIN CHILE CRISP is wielding global flavors—like Mexican Morita and Turkish Aleppo peppers—for a smoky, slightly fruity twist on traditional crisp. We’re dolloping it onto our avo toasts, dumplings, and, heck, even vanilla ice cream.
UBE JAM Ph i l a d el p h i a , PA
Step aside, plain ol’ potatoes— ube is the tuber of the moment. The purple yam with origins in the Philippines is popping up in desserts and drinks everywhere thanks to its vibrant hue and signature nutty, vanilla-like flavor. And this brand-new, one-of-a-kind jam, from condiment and simmer sauce company FILA MANILA, blends the yam with coconut for a thick and creamy spread you’ll want to dollop on ice cream, spread over waffles, and even mix into cookie dough. It’s an ube takeover, and we’re all in.
Locally
MADE
As plant-based living takes root in cities across the nation, indie entrepreneurs are innovating some stellar vegan products in their hometowns. VegNews editors scoured the plant-based scenes all across the country in search of the tastiest locally made vegan delights (that can be delivered nationally!), and here are our 10 favorites. photo by SHEEN A BAT ES
FRENCH PASTRIES Cora l G a b l es, FL
On a bright, palm-tree-lined street just outside Miami sits L'ARTISANE BAKERY & BISTRO, an award-winning vegan bakery enchanting customers with melt-in-your-mouth viennoiseries combining classic French pastries with tropical flair. Buttery croissants, flaky dulce de leche cruffins, delicate cassisand-chocolate macarons, and guava-cream cheese danishes will transport you straight to Paris via The Magic City. 66
VEGNEWS
SUMMER 2022
Gelato—that extra dense and creamy Italian ice cream export—is getting a plant-based update in the Windy City thanks to SACRED SERVE. Nutrientdense chaga mushrooms, calming rose water, energyboosting maca root, and heart-healthy saffron are mixed into an electrolyterich coconut base for a functional dessert that makes you feel as good as it tastes. Which means don’t choose between Tigernut Cookies N Creme, Matcha Mint Chip, or Saffron Chai Spice—try them all.
MOONCAKES Brookl yn, NY
This year’s Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival isn’t until September 10, but why wait? Eat the celebration’s signature treat now! New York vegan bakery KOZY TOAST's Cantonese-style mooncakes are filled with warming lotus seed, earthy red bean paste, and housemade salted yolky vegan eggs, all baked to golden perfection. Want something more soft and supple? The chewy snow varieties, filled with custard chestnut or matcha red bean, will take you to the moon and back.
