Inside The Trending Sweet Potato Recipe That’s Taking Over Pizza Night

From plantbasednews.org

Forget cauliflower crust, this sweet potato pizza is the latest veggie twist on a classic dish 

What if your next pizza night started with sweet potatoes? In a recent video, Mark Thompson – better known as Sauce Stache – shows us how to turn this super healthy root vegetable into a chewy, golden pizza base.

Thompson is a popular vegan creator known for experimenting with plant-based food science. In this video, he explains how to use sweet potatoes to make pizza dough from scratch, showing every step of the process – from boiling and mashing the potatoes to letting the dough ferment overnight.

The result, tested and approved by his partner Monica, is a surprisingly light, fluffy crust with a subtle sweetness that might just convert even the most traditional pizza fans.

Here’s how Sauce Stache pulls off his sweet potato pizza trick.

To give it a "punchier taste," Sauce Stache lets the sweet potato pizza dough sit for a day - Media Credit: YouTube/Sauce Stache

Making the base

Thompson starts by peeling and cubing sweet potatoes, boiling them in salted water until soft. The starchy water isn’t wasted; it becomes part of the dough base. Once the potatoes are mashed and cooled, he whisks some of the reserved water with flour until it reaches “pancake dough consistency.” Then comes a spoonful of mashed sweet potato, yeast, and a touch of maple syrup to feed the fermentation.

He lets the mixture rest until it gets foamy. “Ok, this has gotten nice and bubbly,” he says, as the yeast comes alive. Flour, salt, and olive oil follow, creating a soft, slightly sticky dough. Thompson admits it’s wetter than a classic pizza base but insists the texture will pay off.

After a brief knead, the dough goes back into the bowl for its first rise – about an hour. He punches it down, divides it into two, and places the portions in the fridge overnight. That’s where the magic happens. “You don’t have to do that,” he notes, “but if you do, you’ll get a punchier taste.”

Building flavour overnight

YouTube/Sauce StacheTo make the vegan cheese, Sauce Stache recommends soaking the cashews with lemon juice and salt, ideally overnight, or at least for an hour

While the dough rests, Thompson makes a simple cashew topping. Soaked cashews, lemon juice, salt, and nutritional yeast blend into a rich, creamy sauce. “It’s the saltiness and the sourness that make this kind of like a cheesy topping,” he explains. Like the dough, it can sit overnight, developing flavour and smoothness by the next day.

By morning, both elements are ready. “These have overproofed,” he jokes, showing the puffed dough. But instead of starting over, he embraces the texture, pressing it gently into two pans – a deep square and a thinner quarter sheet – to test which version works best.

Assembling and baking

Thompson spreads a quick tomato sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Over that goes the cashew “cheese,” drizzled in ribbons across the dough. Half of each pizza gets canned mushrooms, and everything bakes at 450°F for about 20 minutes. “If you don’t like canned mushrooms and you think this was a bad idea, then you don’t do it,” Thompson says.

The result? Golden edges, crisp bottoms, and a tender crumb that defies its vegetable origins. “This is really like airy and fluffy,” Monica says between bites, admitting that she had no idea it was sweet potato. Thompson smiles: mission accomplished.

Between the deep-dish and thinner versions, both win. One is fluffier and breadier, the other crisp and light. “They’re both really good,” Monica says. “I don’t know that I like one better than the other. It’s just like whatever I’m in the mood for that day.”

Thompson agrees. “The sweet potato just adds such a cool element to this,” he says. “Way better than your normal homemade.”

Sweet potatoes might not replace traditional pizza dough for purists – but in Thompson’s kitchen, they definitely change the game.

Find more plant-based recipes and science content on the Sauce Stache YouTube channel.

https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/inside-the-trending-sweet-potato-recipe-thats-taking-over-pizza-night/

UK: THIS™ has got your Christmas dinner sorted with a high-fibre, limited-edition nut roast

From veganfoodandliving.com

This gut-friendly nut roast is set to make the festive season a whole lot easier for plant-based diners. Created by innovative food company THIS™, the new  Chestnut, Mushroom and Caramelised Onion Nut Roast promises to be the whole-food hero we need this Christmas.

The limited-edition roast is designed to be the ultimate, flavour-packed centrepiece, but it’s also bang-on trend, delivering plenty of gut-friendly fibre to help you get your 30 grams per day.

Perfect for those who want a wholesome, flavourful vegan roast dinner without spending time making complex dishes from scratch, this nut roast is packed with healthy, festive ingredients like chestnuts, mushrooms, parsnips, seeds, and a sweet caramelised red onion chutney.

The THIS™ Chestnut, Mushroom and Caramelised Onion Nut Roast (400g) is priced at £7.50, serves four, and will be sold exclusively in Tesco stores nationwide from 8th December 2025. But you’ll have to be quick, as this seasonal showstopper will only be available for three weeks.

THIS™ nut roast is a wholesome alternative to convenient, processed Christmas vegan roasts. Image © THIS™

THIS™ nut roast is a high-fibre hero for your gut

While Christmas dinner often focuses on indulgence, the THIS™ nut roast offers a welcome health benefit. The use of nuts, seeds, and vegetables ensures the dish is high in fibre, a major positive for those looking to hit the recommended daily target of 30 grams.

Whole food products like this are an excellent way to boost your daily intake, contributing to better digestive health and prolonged satiety. It truly is a festive dish that is both sweet and savoury, while being a worthwhile component of a balanced Christmas meal.

It’s also a hero for busy households, as it is freezer-friendly and can be cooked directly in its tray, ensuring a stress-free experience when planning and serving a big roast with all the trimmings.

Get ahead of Christmas food shopping with THIS™

If you can’t wait until 8th December to get your hands on the new nut roast, THIS™ is giving shoppers a chance to stock up on their range of plant-based meats well ahead of the festive rush.

Later this month, the company will be taking Christmas feasting to the next level by launching a unique, temporary retail space: the ‘THIS™ Butchers’ pop-up. The clever concept sells a full range of hyper-realistic plant-based meats, but without ever having to butcher anything!

It’s the perfect opportunity to grab party-season essentials like This Isn’t Roast Chicken & Stuffing, This Isn’t Pork Cocktail Sausages, and This Isn’t Beef Pastrami to ensure your festive dinners and party canapés are sorted.

Visit THIS™ Butchers:

• When: November 29th and 30th (12pm – 6pm)
• Where: 17 Kingsland Road, Shoreditch, London E2 8AA

Pop by to get your Christmas shopping list ticked off early and enjoy the brand’s witty take on traditional butchery.

https://www.veganfoodandliving.com/news/this-launch-high-fibre-limited-edition-nut-roast/

These are the UK’s best vegan fish and chip shops – Did your local make the list?

From veganfoodandliving.com

Got a craving for a takeaway? Here are the best vegan fish and chip shops in the UK to pop in for a cruelty-free chippy tea!

There is no denying that Brits love their fish and chips – there’s even a national day for it. Visiting the seaside is quintessentially British, but the national habit of indulging in a cod and chips dinner by the sea is environmentally destructive.

Our oceans are essential to human and non-human survival, providing more than half of the world’s oxygen, and in turn, absorbing 50 times more carbon dioxide than the atmosphere.

We are currently facing a crisis of overfishing which is depleting the health of our oceans, in addition to a global marine plastic problem – nearly half of which is down to abandoned fishing gear.

But being vegan and protecting our planet doesn’t mean missing out on British traditions, as ‘fish’ can be recreated from plant sources such as tofu, banana blossom, and even jackfruit.

These ingredients mimic the delicate, flaky texture of fish when battered and fried, while seaweed, nori flakes or kombu are often added to bring that signature “sea” flavour. Some restaurants also use pea protein or wheat-based alternatives shaped into fillets for an even more realistic bite.

So whether you prefer a classic crispy batter or something more inventive, there’s now a wealth of options that deliver all the nostalgia of fish and chips, without the environmental cost.

Here are the top places to get delicious vegan fish and chips in the UK, in no particular order:

1. The No Catch Co., Brighton, East Sussex

This 100% vegan eatery is a must-visit for meat-free diners in Brighton. The menu is impressively varied, offering everything from traditional battered ‘cod’ to popcorn prawnz, lemon ‘shrimp’ and even vegan calamari.

There’s also a jumbo battered vegan saveloy for anyone craving a proper chippy-style feast.

And of course, everything can be paired with crispy chips, mushy peas and a generous helping of their homemade tartare sauce.

The aptly named No Catch Co. is a fully vegan chippy in the seaside town of Brighton, serving up a creative menu of chip shop favourites with a vegan twist. Photo © The No Catch Co.

Address: 127a Kings Road, Brighton BN1 2FA | Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 12:30pm – 8:00pm, Sunday: 12:30pm – 7:00pm | See the menu: nocatch.co/menu

2. Elliot’s Fish & Chips, Hunstanton, Norfolk

A favourite on the Hunstanton seafront, Elliot’s is a hybrid fish and chip kiosk that really does cater for everyone, vegans included.

Alongside their traditional menu, you’ll find a solid range of plant-based options such as vegan “fish” fillets, crispy battered sausages and plenty of classic sides.

It’s the perfect spot to grab a salty, satisfying chippy supper after a day at the beach, whether you’re fully vegan or just curious to try something different.

Address: Unit 12 South Promenade, Hunstanton PE36 5BF | Opening hours: Friday: 16:00 – 20:00, Saturday: 12:00 – 18:00, Sunday 12:00 – 16:00 | facebook.com/Elliotshunstanton

3. The Happy Fish., Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland’s first fully vegan fish and chippy lives inside The Dog House pub, and yes, it’s as fun and dog-friendly as it sounds.

The Happy Fish serves all the classics, from tofish and battered vegan sausages to their wildly popular battered haggis.

You’ll also find chicken-style tenders, nuggets, plenty of dipping sauces and, for dessert, battered Oreos and Mars bars for the full Scottish chippy experience (minus the fish).

Address: U18-22 Clerk St, Edinburgh EH8 9HX | Opening hours: Monday: 16:00 – 22:00, Tuesday: 16:00 – 21:00, Wednesday – Thursday: 16:00 – 22:00, Friday – Saturday: 13:00 – 23:00, Sunday 16:00 – 22:00 | instagram.com/thehappyfishvg 

4. Sea & Earth, Eastwood, Nottingham

Sea & Earth blends classic chippy favourites with a huge vegan-friendly twist, and it’s done with real variety and care.

Sea & Earth boasts a tempting plant-based menu full of classic chippy favourites, from 'fish' and chips to mock scampi. Photo © Sea & Earth

Their menu includes banana-blossom “vish”, mock scampi, battered vegan sausages, vegan nuggets, and vish-cakes, all served up with proper chips, mushy peas or curry sauce for that full fish-and-chips feeling.

For vegans (or anyone curious), it’s a chance to enjoy all the comfort-food classics without compromise. If you’re after something a bit different, maybe loaded chips, vegan battered sausage, or a hearty vish-cake meal, Sea & Earth delivers a solid plant-based chippy experience.

Address: 95 Nottingham Rd, Eastwood, Nottingham NG16 3AJ | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 11:30 – 21:00, Friday – Saturday: 11:30 – 21:30, Sunday 16:30 – 20:30 | See the menu: seaearth.co.uk

5. Harbour Lights, Falmouth, Cornwall

This award-winning chippie may not be totally vegan, but it does offer an animal-free option, which is famous in the area.

The standout is their tofish: tofu marinated in brine and lemon juice, wrapped in nori and fried to give it that unmistakably “fishy” flavour.

You can also order jackfruit “fish” cakes, classic chips and vegan mayo for dipping, ideal for enjoying by the harbour on a sunny day.

Address: Arwenack St, Falmouth TR11 3LH | Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday 12:00 – 20:00, Friday – Saturday: 12:00 – 20:30 | See the menu: harbourlights.co.uk

6. Sutton & Sons, Hackney, London

Sutton & Sons launched its vegan menu back in 2018, and the plant-based selection is now a fixture at all three of its London locations.

Their signature banana-blossom “fish” is a must-try, with a surprisingly flaky texture that works perfectly in a crisp batter.

The menu doesn’t stop there, think vegan scampi, a hearty “fish” burger and even a retro-style “prawn” cocktail. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to visit more than once just to make your way through the options.

Address: 218 Graham Rd, London E8 1BP | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 12:00 – 22:00, Friday – Saturday: 12:00 – 22:30, Sunday: 12:00 – 22:00 | harbourlights.co.uk

7. Shakey Shakey,  Ramsgate, Kent

Shakey Shakey is a classic seaside chippy with a surprisingly big vegan menu. Plant-based diners can dig into battered “fish” and chips, a tofish burger, vegan “prawns” or a hearty fishless cake, plus a choice of burgers and vegan chicken.

All the usual chippy sides are there too, such as chips, mushy peas, curry sauce, gravy and beans, making it easy to put together a proper, comforting plate of seaside food.

Address: 75 High St, Ramsgate CT11 9RJ | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 12:00 – 22:00, Friday – Saturday: 12:00 – 22:30, Sunday: 12:00 – 22:00 | harbourlights.co.uk

8. Simpsons Fish and Chips, Gloucester

This well-loved chippy, with spots in Stroud and Cheltenham,  expanded its offerings after a nudge from PETA, and its vegan menu has been popular ever since.

Expect hearty plant-based choices like Tofish, battered vegan sausages, pea fritters, pineapple fritters and frickles (deep-fried pickles).

There are also vegan curries and plenty of sides, making it easy to build a proper chippy feast without missing out on any essentials.

Address: 73-75 Priors Road, Cheltenham GL52 5AL | Opening hours: Sunday – Monday 16:00 – 21:00, Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 – 14:00, and 16:00 – 21:00 | simpsonsfishandchips.com

9. Leon’s Fish Bar, Chesterfield, Derbyshire

Leon’s has one of the most extensive vegan chippy menus you’ll find anywhere, with options ranging from comfort-food classics to fully loaded meals.

Their vish and chips is a staple, but you can also tuck into vegan sausages (plain or battered), chick nuggets, chick strips, pies, fritters and even a vegan doner when it’s available. The burger selection is huge too, with everything from a vish burger to a stacked “Beast Burger” packed with onion rings, hash browns and sauces.

If you’re really hungry, the Veast Box, which contains a mix of vegan chicken, sausages, onion rings, kebab veat and chips. It truly is the ultimate plant-based feast.

Address: 53 Market St, Clay Cross, Chesterfield S45 9JQ | Opening hours: Monday 17:00 – 21:00, Tuesday – Wednesday: 15:00 – 21:00, Thursday: 12:00 – 14:00 & 17:00 – 21:00, Friday- Saturday 11:30 – 21:00 | See the menu: leonsfishbar.co.uk

10. Papa’s Fish and Chips

Papa’s is an award-winning fish and chip chain with 11 locations across the UK, and although it isn’t fully vegan, it does offer a solid plant-based option.

Their signature tofish, coated in their secret-recipe batter, is served with traditional chips and gives a satisfying taste of the classic without going off-menu.

A handy choice if you’re travelling or fancy a quick vegan chippy fix wherever you are.

Papa's is a national chain of fish and chip shops which offer vegan fish and chips made from tofu. Photo © Papa's Fish and Chips

11. Lucy’s Chips, Norwich, Norfolk

A long-standing favourite at Norwich Market, Lucy’s Chips now caters brilliantly to plant-based diners.

The stall serves vegan “vish”, battered tofu sausage and crispy Quorn “fishies” fillets, all cooked to order and perfect with a portion of proper chips.

With seating available nearby, it’s an easy and tasty stop for a casual lunch in the heart of the city.

Address: 114, 115 Market Pl, Norwich NR2 1ND | Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00, Sunday 10:00 – 15:00 | instagram.com/lucyschips

12. Mono Cafe and Bar, Glasgow, Scotland

A Glasgow institution for plant-based dining, Mono Café and Bar is known for its legendary vegan fish and chips, and the generous portion sizes certainly help earn the title.

Their to-fish is made from nori-marinated tofu, battered and served with twice-fried chips, tartare sauce and lemon for the full comfort-food experience.

Beyond that, the menu is packed with creative vegan dishes, from the indulgent battered “pizza crunch” supper to kebab-loaded fries, kimchi fries and a punchy salt-and-chilli spice bag. It’s a brilliant spot for anyone craving a proper chippy-style feast with a bit of Glasgow flair.

Address: 12, Kings Court, King St, Glasgow G1 5RB | Opening hours: Monday – Sunday 10:00 – 23:00 | See the menu: monocafebar.com

13. Mr Chippy, York

Mr Chippy is a long-running favourite in the heart of York, and its vegan options make it an easy stop for plant-based diners.

The standout is the Banana Blossom Fish & Chips, which offers that classic flaky texture with a golden, crunchy batter. You can also tuck into a vegan jumbo sausage, onion rings, pineapple rings and even vegan tartare sauce to round out the chippy experience.

It’s simple, traditional and exactly what you want from a no-nonsense chip shop.

Address: 2 Church Street, York, YO1 8BA | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 11:oo – 20:30, Friday – Saturday 11:00 – 22:00, Sunday 12:00 – 20:30 | See the menu: mrchippyyork.co.uk/menu

14. Land & Sea Fish & Chip Shop, Falkirk, Scotland

This traditional Falkirk chippy dedicates every Tuesday to a fully plant-based menu, all cooked in separate vegan oil.

The star of the show is the battered Golden Vish Fillet, but there’s plenty more to choose from, including vegan black pudding, sausages and popcorn chick’n.

You’ll also find all the classic chip-shop extras, such as haggis, nuggets, potato fritters, onion rings, giving plant-based diners the full chippy experience with no compromise on choice or flavour.

Address: Main Street, Falkirk FK2 0PX | Opening hours: Monday – Sunday 16:30 – 20:00 | See the menu: land-n-sea.co.uk/food-menu

15. #FISH, Edinburgh, Scotland

Fish Edinburgh might look like a classic chippy at first glance, but it has quietly become one of the city’s biggest vegan takeaway and delivery spots, with around 30% of its sales now coming from plant-based dishes.

The team prides itself on being inclusive in both its staffing and its menu, offering a solid selection of vegan options that sit comfortably alongside the traditional fare.

It’s a great pick for anyone in Edinburgh looking for a reliable, well-loved vegan chippy option without needing to hunt down a specialist venue.

Address: 98 Marchmont Road, Edinburgh EH9 1HR | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 13:00 – 21:00, Friday 12:00 – 22:00, Saturday – Sunday 12:00 – 21:00 | See the menu: eatfishedinburgh.com

A whopping 30% of Edinburgh chippy #FISH's sales now coming from its plant-based dishes. Photo © #FISH

16. Chish and Fips, Norwich

This no-frills fast-food chippy offers a few vegan-friendly choices, including battered sausages, Pukka pies and a plant-based version of traditional battered fish.

It’s a simple, convenient option for grabbing a quick vegan chippy meal in the city.

Address: 53 Angel Rd, Norwich NR3 3HR | Opening hours: Tuesday – Friday 12:00 – 13:30 & 16:30 – 21:00, Saturday 11:45  – 13:30 & 16:30 – 21:00 | facebook.com/chishnfipsnorwich

17. Smarts Fish & Chips, Witney, Oxfordshire

Smarts has gone all-in on plant-based options with its generously sized “Vegan Heaven” menu, and it really lives up to the name.

Alongside its popular battered vegan “fish”, you’ll find everything from crispy cauliflower bites and vegan nuggets to sausages, onion rings and hearty plant-based burgers.

It’s a proper chippy-style feast with plenty of choice, making it a great spot for vegan diners and mixed groups alike.

Address: 50 Market Square, Witney OX28 6A | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 10:00 – 22:30, Friday – Saturday 10:00 – 01:00, Sunday 12:00 – 21:00 | See the menu: smartsfishchipswitney.co.uk/order-now/vegan-heaven

18. Brockley’s Rock, Brixton, London

Down in south-east London, Brockley’s Rock has become a popular spot for vegan diners thanks to its growing plant-based menu.

Alongside its vegan fish steaks, you’ll find fishless fingers, vegan sausages (battered or plain) and even slices of vegan cake if you’ve still got space afterwards. It’s a great example of a traditional chippy making room for everyone, and doing it well.

Address: 317 Brockley Rd, London SE4 2QZ | Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 12:00 – 22:00, Sunday 14:00 – 22:00 | facebook.com/chishnfipsnorwich

19. Veggie Corner, Coventry

Veggie Corner is a local favourite for plant-based comfort food, offering a fully vegetarian and vegan-friendly take on classic takeaway dishes.

Their menu covers all the essentials, from crispy “fish”-style options to burgers, wraps and hearty chip-shop sides, making it an easy go-to whether you’re after a quick lunch or a proper chippy-style treat.

Veggie Corner's extensive menu covers all the essentials, from crispy “fish”-style options to burgers and classic chippy tea sides. Photo © TheVeganBuddhist/HappyCow

It’s a simple, no-fuss spot that consistently delivers good portions and plenty of choice for vegan diners in Coventry.

Address: 1a Clay Ln, Coventry CV2 4LH | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 15:30 – 22:00, Friday – Saturday 12:00 – 22:00, Sunday 16:30 – 22:00 | See the menu: veggiecorneronline.co.uk

20. Capplemans Fish & Chips, Scarborough, Yorkshire

Capplemans isn’t just a seaside chippy, it’s a go-to for plant-based diners in Scarborough thanks to a well-stocked vegan menu.

Their vegan line-up includes battered “Vish & Chips” (soya-based “fish” in crispy batter), battered tofu, vegan sausages, vegan fish fingers, and even more indulgent options like pineapple fritters and “mushy-pea bombs.”

On top of that, there are vegan-friendly sides such as chips, curry sauce and tartare, making it easy to build a full-on chippy meal without compromise.

According to vegan reviewers, all the vegan items are cooked in a separate fryer and clearly labelled, which is a big plus for dietary clarity.

Address: 33 Raleigh St, Scarborough YO12 7LG | Opening hours: Saturday – Monday, 16:30 – 19:00, Thursday – Saturday 11:30 – 13:30, Tuesday – Friday 16:30 – 19:30, | See the menu: scarborough.capplemans.com/collection/vegan

21. Laura’s Fish Bar, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear

Tucked away in Whitley Bay, Laura’s Fish Bar is a proper seaside chippy with a dedicated vegan menu that makes it a go-to for plant-based fish and chips near the coast.

Their banana-blossom “fish” and chips is the headline grabber, but that’s just the start: they also offer vegan battered sausage, vegan fishcakes, cheesy chips, and all the classic sides like mushy peas, curry sauce, tartare sauce, gravy, and chips cooked just as you’d expect from a traditional chippy.

Address:  32 Station Rd, Whitley Bay, NE26 2RD | Opening hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 16:30 – 21:30, Friday – Saturday 11:30 – 21:30| See the menu: laurasfishbaronline.com/order-now/vegan-and-vegetarian

https://www.veganfoodandliving.com/features/best-vegan-fish-and-chip-shops-in-the-uk/