The vegan menu at Emirates just got bigger and better

Emirates, a Dubai-based global airline, announced in August that it would spend more than $2 million on improving the in-flight experience. A total of 120 of its aircraft will be outfitted with the most up-to-date interiors, upgraded entertainment systems, and fancier in-flight menus. For instance, the vegan menu at Emirates just got bigger and better. The announcement left vegan flyers on the edge of their seats, wondering what the airline might have planned for them after years of packing snacks in carry-ons.

Emirates Airlines, which is ranked the world's top airline by VegNews, has more to offer. Vegans flying Emirates, whether in first, business, or economy class, have a lot more to look forward to than the dry pretzels or Biscoff cookie snacks served on other airlines. Tofu jalfrezi, shiitake ravioli, ancho three-bean chili, and Ethiopian spicy red lentil stew, or misir wat, are just a few vegan options that have previously rotated on the airline's seasonal menus. However, just in time for World Vegan Day on November 1, Emirates announced on October 24 that it would be adding even more vegan options to its menu. And this time, they spilled the beans.

Sky high vegan dining

Emirates revealed the multimillion-dollar investment in expanding the vegan options available on board in an October 24 announcement. To meet the growing global interest in plant-based diets and create a vegan menu capable of competing with acclaimed restaurants, Emirates Airlines Flight Catering, the world's largest flight catering facility, spent a year developing first and business-class dishes. The menu includes contributions from Chinese, Arabic, and Indian cuisine experts, in addition to international vegan and non-vegan chefs from 69 different nationalities. The use of alternative ingredients such as artisan vegan cheese, coconut or vegetable-based cream and butter, jackfruit, and more results in a diverse range of textures and flavors.

The announcement marked the launch of the new menu, which is now available for order and pre-order onboard and in Emirates airport lounges. In addition to the rotating seasonal menu, first and business-class passengers can enjoy koftas made with Beyond meat and fresh greens sourced from Bustanica, the world's largest hydroponic vertical farm. On the other hand, the economy-class vegan menus are set to change every month, with current favorites including mushroom risotto, warm quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and pesto, and creamy spinach and avocado mousseline with marinated tofu. Vegan desserts include a dark chocolate cake, a lemon tart with coconut cream, and a rich chocolate tofu cheesecake all of which are adorned with genuine edible gold leaves.