Veganuary recipe: Secco de Pollo with Planted™

As the New Year kicks off, many people are looking for fresh ways to improve their health and embrace sustainability. One popular initiative that supports both is Veganuary—an annual challenge encouraging people to try plant-based eating. Whether you're a seasoned plant-based eater or just starting, this Veganuary, why not dive into the world of plant-powered meals with our new recipe?

We’re excited to share one of our favorite dishes from the menu: Secco de Pollo with Planted™ "Chicken". This vibrant, Ecuadorian-inspired recipe is not only packed with bold flavors but also brings together sustainable, plant-based ingredients. It's a perfect meal to kick off your Veganuary journey!

The Story Behind Secco de Pollo

Our chef drew inspiration from traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, where Secco de Pollo is a beloved dish with deep cultural roots. Historically, it has been a centrepiece of family gatherings and festive celebrations, showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage.

The dish’s signature flavor comes from the harmonious blend of citrus and beer, paired with savory spices. By substituting the chicken with Planted™ "chicken", we’ve made this dish accessible for plant-based food lovers while preserving its authentic taste.

Ingredients for 4 Servings

Note: If you don’t have access to Planted™ "chicken," you can use any plant-based chicken substitute or firm tofu as an alternative. For gluten-free beer, you may substitute with a light vegetable stock or non-alcoholic cider for a similar depth of flavor.

• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 300 g Planted™ chicken substitute (or any plant-based chicken alternative)
• 1 cup (200 g) rice
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) gluten-free beer
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 orange
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon chili pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon mild paprika

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Secco de Pollo with Planted™ “Chicken”

1. Prepare the Planted™ “Chicken”: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add Planted™ “chicken” and sauté for approximately 5–7 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. Set aside.

2. Create the Sauce: In the same pan, add sunflower oil and sauté onion, garlic, ginger, and bell pepper until fragrant. Add tomatoes, cumin, mild paprika, and chili pepper. Cook until the mixture forms a thick base. Deglaze the pan with gluten-free beer and freshly squeezed orange juice. Add salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Add the "Chicken" and Simmer: Return the Planted™ "chicken" to the pan. Stir to coat evenly with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

5. Cook the Cumin-Spiced Carrots and Rice: Steam the carrots with a pinch of cumin until tender. Cook the rice according to package instructions and fluff with a fork.

6. Assemble and Garnish: Plate the rice, top with the Secco de Pollo, and serve with a side of cumin-spiced carrots. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestions and Variations 

For an extra burst of flavor, add a refreshing touch of lime juice just before serving to enhance the dish's brightness. If you're craving more heat, feel free to incorporate additional chili pepper for a fiery kick that will surely satisfy spice lovers. To complement the bold flavors, pair the dish with a refreshing cucumber salad or creamy avocado slices, which will add a cooling balance and elevate the overall experience.

Nutritional Highlights

• Calories: 144.55 kcal/100 g | 722.75 kcal/portion

• Protein: 6.58 g/100 g | 32.90 g/portion

• Fiber: 2.07 g/100 g | 10.35 g/portion

• Fats: 5.28 g/100 g | 26.40 g/portion

• Carbohydrates: 16.57 g/100 g | 82.85 g/portion

Tips for Incorporating More Plant-Based Meals Into Your Routine

Starting small is key—don’t feel pressured to go fully plant-based overnight. Begin by swapping one or two meals a week with plant-powered options like this recipe. Planning ahead can also make it easier, as preparing plant-based ingredients such as rice, roasted vegetables, or marinated tofu in advance saves time and fits seamlessly into a busy schedule. One of the joys of plant-based eating is the opportunity to experiment with new flavors, so have fun exploring a variety of herbs, spices, and vegetarian protein options to keep your meals exciting and delicious.

This Veganuary, why not treat yourself to a delicious, plant-based dish that’s both satisfying and sustainable? Try our Secco de Pollo with Planted™ "Chicken" and discover more plant-powered options from Powermeals. Plus, enjoy 20% off all Planted meals on our menu throughout January.

Bon appétit!