No-Chicken Coronation Sandwich Recipe Guide

Introduction

In the realm of culinary innovation, few dishes evoke a sense of history, elegance, and adaptable creativity quite like the Coronation Chicken, or more broadly, the Coronation Sandwich. Originally conceived in 1953 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, this dish has evolved from a royal delicacy into a versatile, global favorite. Its signature flavor profile—a harmonious blend of curry, sweetness, and crunch—has inspired countless variations, including vegan and vegetarian adaptations that cater to contemporary dietary preferences. The No-Chicken Coronation Sandwich stands as a testament to this evolution, offering a plant-based twist that preserves the classic flavors and textures while aligning with modern health and ethical standards. This comprehensive guide, published on Love With Recipes, aims to provide an in-depth exploration of this dish—from its rich history to detailed preparation instructions, nutritional insights, tips, and creative enhancements—ensuring that both novice cooks and seasoned culinary enthusiasts can craft a perfect, satisfying, and nutritious No-Chicken Coronation Sandwich.

Time

The total estimated time to prepare this dish, from ingredient gathering to assembling the final sandwich, is approximately 45 to 60 minutes. This includes prep work, cooking, cooling, and assembly. The actual hands-on time for cooking the plant-based chicken substitute is about 15-20 minutes, while assembling the sandwiches takes an additional 15-20 minutes. The remainder involves cooling and optional garnishing. For those seeking efficiency, some steps can be prepared in advance, such as cooking the plant-based chicken and preparing the salad component, which can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before assembly.

Needed Equipment

• Medium-sized cooking pot or saucepan for boiling or steaming plant-based chicken substitute
• Strainer or colander for draining cooked ingredients
• Mixing bowls of various sizes for preparing the salad and mixing ingredients
• Sharp chef’s knife for chopping and slicing vegetables and herbs
• Cutting board with a stable surface for safe chopping
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurement
• Toaster or oven for toasting sliced almonds
• Toothpick or fork for toasting almonds (optional but recommended for even roasting)
• Spatula or large mixing spoon for combining ingredients
• Grater or zester (if adding fresh ingredients like ginger or lemon zest)
• Sandwich assembly tools such as a serrated knife for slicing bread, and optional spreaders for mayonnaise
• Serving platter or plates for presentation
• Optional: food processor for finely chopping herbs or dried fruits

Tags

Vegan, Vegetarian, Plant-Based, Sandwich, Quick & Easy, Healthy, Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free bread), Dairy-Free, Nutty, Exotic Flavors, Crowd-Pleaser, Meal Prep

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 sandwiches, depending on the size of bread slices and the amount of filling used per serving. Each sandwich is designed to be a complete, satisfying meal, suitable for lunch or light dinner servings. For larger appetites, additional sides or a second serving can be accommodated.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is rated as Easy to Moderate. It requires basic cooking skills such as boiling, chopping, mixing, and assembling. The steps are straightforward and suitable for cooks of all levels, with optional advanced techniques like toasting almonds or preparing homemade plant-based chicken substitutes for a more involved experience.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

This recipe is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is dairy-free, egg-free, and free from animal products. It can be adapted to gluten-free diets by selecting appropriate bread and ensuring all condiments are gluten-free. The recipe emphasizes plant-based ingredients, making it an excellent choice for those following vegan, plant-based, or health-conscious eating plans.

Course

Main Course/Sandwich

Cuisine

British-inspired, Fusion, Modern Vegetarian, Vegan

Ingredients

In the Table Format for Clarity

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Plant-Based Chicken Substitute

The first critical step involves cooking your chosen plant-based chicken substitute. Options include tofu, tempeh, or seitan. For tofu, press out excess moisture, then cut into bite-sized pieces. For tempeh or seitan, slice into strips or cubes. Boil or steam these ingredients in salted water or broth until heated through—about 10-15 minutes. For tofu, you might want to pan-fry or bake briefly before shredding to add extra flavor and texture. Once cooked, allow the mixture to cool completely. Cooling prevents melting of mayonnaise and ensures better mixing.

Step 2: Making the Coronation Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegan mayonnaise, mango chutney, and curry powder. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is uniform. This forms the flavorful dressing base that echoes the original dish’s exotic, aromatic profile. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning—add more curry powder for heat, or more mango chutney for sweetness, according to your preferences.

Step 3: Combining the Shredded Plant-Based Chicken

Add the cooled, shredded plant-based chicken to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly. This process ensures that each bite will carry the rich, spiced flavor characteristic of the classic Coronation Chicken but without any animal products.

Step 4: Incorporating Crunch and Sweetness

Fold in toasted sliced almonds, chopped dried apricots, and freshly chopped cilantro. Toasted almonds add a nutty crunch, while dried apricots introduce a sweet, chewy contrast. Cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that balances the richness of the mayonnaise and curry. To toast almonds, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fragrant.

Step 5: Adjusting Seasonings

Sample the salad and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you desire more spiciness, sprinkle additional curry powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper. For extra sweetness, a splash more mango chutney can be incorporated. Rest the mixture for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 6: Assembling the Sandwiches

Lay slices of bread on a clean surface. For a classic presentation, spread a layer of mayonnaise or a light butter on each slice. Place a leaf of lettuce on one slice, then spoon a generous amount of the coronation salad over it. Top with cucumber slices, tomato slices, and red onion if using. For a more rustic look, you can pile the salad directly onto a single slice of bread for an open-faced sandwich. Cover with the second slice to complete the sandwich. Repeat for all servings.

Step 7: Final Presentation

Arrange the sandwiches on a platter, garnished with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for visual appeal. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours prior to serving for a chilled, refreshing experience. This dish pairs beautifully with light sides and refreshing beverages.

Preparation Tips

• Choosing the Right Bread: Whole grain or multigrain bread adds extra fiber and nutrients. For gluten-free options, use certified gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
• Prepping in Advance: Prepare the plant-based chicken and salad mixture a day ahead. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to develop further.
• Toasting Nuts: Toast sliced almonds or other nuts until golden to enhance flavor. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
• Customizing Flavors: Adjust the curry powder and mango chutney to match your spice and sweetness preferences.
• Vegetable Variations: Add thinly sliced bell peppers, grated carrots, or shredded lettuce for additional crunch and color.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Flavor Balance: Taste the salad before assembling. Balance sweetness with more mango chutney or spice with additional curry powder to suit your palate.
• Texture Play: Incorporate contrasting textures, such as crunchy nuts and crisp vegetables, for a more satisfying bite.
• Presentation: Use colorful vegetables and herbs to enhance visual appeal, making the sandwich more inviting.
• Protein Variations: Experiment with different plant-based proteins like chickpeas or jackfruit for unique textures and flavors.
• Healthier Options: Use low-fat or homemade mayonnaise options, and opt for whole-grain or sprouted bread for added health benefits.

Add-Ons

• Avocado slices for creaminess
• Pickled vegetables for tang
• Extra herbs such as mint or basil
• Spicy mustard or vegan aioli for additional flavor
• Fresh fruit slices, such as apple or pear, for added sweetness and crunch

Side Dishes

• Light green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Sweet potato fries or baked chips
• Pickled vegetables or relishes
• Fresh fruit salad
• Vegan coleslaw with a tangy dressing

Improvements

• Use homemade curry powder for a fresher, more vibrant flavor
• Incorporate roasted vegetables into the salad for added depth
• Try different nuts such as cashews or walnuts for varied crunch
• Experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries or figs for unique sweetness
• Make your own vegan mayonnaise with aquafaba or cashew cream for control over ingredients

Save and Store

Leftover salad mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For best results, assemble the sandwiches just before serving to maintain freshness and texture. If preparing in advance, keep the salad separate from the bread to prevent sogginess, and assemble shortly before eating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular bread with certified gluten-free bread or use lettuce wraps for a low-carb, gluten-free version. Ensure all condiments, especially the mayonnaise and chutney, are labeled gluten-free.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of plant-based substitutes?

This recipe is specifically designed as a vegan alternative. However, if you prefer traditional ingredients, you can replace the plant-based chicken with cooked, shredded chicken breast, adjusting the mayonnaise and curry quantities accordingly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra curry powder, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also include chopped chili peppers or a sprinkle of paprika for additional heat.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Prepare the salad component ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to preserve freshness. This makes it ideal for packing into lunchboxes or for making ahead for parties.

Can I freeze this dish?

While the salad can be frozen, the texture may change upon thawing, especially with fresh vegetables. It’s best to prepare and assemble fresh for optimal taste and texture. The salad mixture can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days but is not recommended for freezing.

Conclusion

The No-Chicken Coronation Sandwich offers a delightful, healthful, and ethical twist on a beloved classic. Its harmonious blend of spices, crunch, and sweetness, combined with its versatility and ease of preparation, make it an excellent addition to any meal repertoire. Whether serving for a casual lunch, a sophisticated teatime, or a festive gathering, this sandwich embodies a perfect balance of tradition and innovation. By choosing quality ingredients, experimenting with flavor adjustments, and customizing it to your dietary needs, you can create a truly personalized culinary experience. Remember to visit Love With Recipes for more inspiring ideas, detailed tutorials, and community-driven culinary creativity as you explore this and other recipes. Happy cooking!

References

1. The Royal Cookery Book: Coronation Chicken by Rosemary Hume and Constance Spry, 1953.
2. Vegan Cooking for Dummies by Laura Theodore, 2020.