In an October 24 announcement, Emirates revealed exactly where the multimillion-dollar investment went when it came to expanding the vegan choices they offered on board. To cater to the growing global interest in plant-based diets and build a vegan menu that would compete with acclaimed restaurants, the airline spent a year developing the first and business class dishes at Emirates Flight Catering, the largest flight catering facility in the world. Home to international chefs, both vegan and non-vegan, of 69 different nationalities, the menu features contributions from Chinese, Arabic, and Indian, and cuisine experts. The result brings an expansive range of textures and flavors through the use of alternative ingredients like artisan vegan cheese, coconut or vegetable-based cream and butter, jackfruit, and more.
The announcement commemorated the new menu’s availability, which is now accessible for order and pre-order onboard and in Emirates airport lounges. First and business class flyers can enjoy koftas made with Beyond meat and fresh greens sourced from Bustanica, the world’s largest hydroponic vertical farm, in addition to the rotating seasonal menu. However, the economy class vegan menus are also set to change every month, with some of the current favorites being the mushroom risotto, the warm quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and pesto, and the creamy spinach and avocado mousseline with marinated tofu. Vegan dessert options include a dark chocolate cake, lemon tart with coconut cream, and a rich chocolate tofu cheesecake, all adorned with genuine edible gold leaves.