| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins – 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 200 | 7g | 6g | 35g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 28g | 3g | 2g | 0.15g |
Why I Love Brazilian Vegan Ambrosia
I am delighted to share the recipe of Vegan Ambrosia, a Brazilian dish that beautifully showcases the ability of vegan cuisine to replicate traditional dishes without sacrificing flavor. One taste of this delightful dish changed my perspective on vegan cooking. I was fascinated by its complexity of flavors ranging from the sweetness of the oranges to the hint of spice from the cinnamon and cloves and the smooth creaminess of the coconut cream. All these ingredients closely resembled the vibrant flavors from my Tex-Mex background, thereby causing an instant connection.
My Inspiration for this Ambrosia Recipe
Though I usually am inspired by Southern tastes, this recipe was an exception. It was Chef Alex Atala’s innovative approach to Brazilian cuisine that piqued my curiosity and encouraged my venture into this unique cuisine. Even though his interpretations are not exclusively vegan, his philosophy of connecting with local ingredients and blending them into beloved recipes beautifully translates into this vegan iteration of the traditionally dairy-rich Brazilian ambrosia.
Pairing Suggestions for Vegan Ambrosia
Vegan Ambrosia, rich and creamy, is a versatile dish that complements various side dishes. It pairs well with a fresh, crisp salad like a Brazilian vinaigrette salsa to cut through its richness, or alongside a plate of vegan empanadas to create a balanced, gastronomically satisfying meal. Even within a Tex-Mex spread, it can find its place – where its sweet citrusy notes adds an exciting contrast to the intense, spicy flavors we are familiar with. Ultimately, this dish provides a culinary adventure to a different culture without leaving your kitchen.
Transformative and adventurous – that’s what this Vegan Ambrosia recipe represents to me. Every bite is a delightful blend of familiar and exotic tastes, a symbol of the culinary journey I love to share. I can’t wait for you to try it – bring some Brazilian sunshine into your kitchen!
What You’ll Need
- 3 large oranges, juiced
- 1 tablespoon of grated orange zest
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup of vegan coconut cream
- 1 tablespoon of vegan butter or margarine
Method
Step One
Begin by juicing the 3 large oranges and grate enough zest to yield one tablespoon. Keep the orange juice and zest prepared.
Step Two
In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, grated orange zest, cinnamon sticks, cloves, sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook until the sugar is completely dissolved. This may take around 5-10 minutes.
Step Three
In a separate bowl, mix the tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a smooth paste. Stir this cornstarch mixture into the saucepan with the orange juice mixture. This will help to thicken the sauce.
Step Four
Continue to simmer the mixture until it thickens to a syrup-like consistency. Remember to stir often to prevent any lumps from forming. Once the desired consistency is reached, remove the saucepan from heat.
Step Five
Strain the mixture to remove the cloves and cinnamon sticks. Stir in the vegan coconut cream and vegan butter or margarine. Stir until the vegan butter or margarine is completely melted and all the ingredients are well combined.
Step Six
Once the Vegan Ambrosia cools, transfer it to a serving dish and refrigerate until it’s ready to serve. Enjoy your Vegan Ambrosia chilled!
