In celebration of National Vegetarian Month in the United States this October, Kellanova Away From Home is partnering with Mitchell Aboujamra, the chef-owner behind Evette’s Chicago, to bring MorningStar Farms plant-based products to the restaurant for the first time.
Aboujamra, a first generation Lebanese American renowned for creating innovative dishes that fuse the Mediterranean flavors of Lebanon with the vibrant culinary traditions of Mexico, has crafted a special menu item, “Angry Chik’n,” featuring MorningStar Farms Chik’n Tenders plant-based protein. The faux chicken ingredient is well known to health-minded frozen food shoppers in US retail stores, were MorningStar Farms Homestyle Chik’n Tenders are sold in 13.5 oz. bags.
In the new limited-time dish on the Evette’s Chicago menu, juicy Chik’n Tenders are coated in a smoky harissa mayonnaise and artfully arranged over a bed of crispy, golden-brown sumac fries. Each bite is loaded with savory, spicy and tangy flavor. The dish is topped with an extra drizzle of harissa mayo, a sprinkle of Aleppo chili flakes and a garnish of fresh parsley for a refreshing contrast.
“Sharing my creativity with our guests and introducing new dishes like the Angry Chik’n is always fun and exciting,” said Aboujamra. “Partnering with a trusted brand like MorningStar Farms makes it even better. They’ve crafted a delicious product, and it’s rewarding to put my own spin on it while giving people more choices to enjoy plant-based eating.”
Mitchell Aboujamra, the chef-owner behind Evette’s Chicago.
“Chef Aboujamra’s innovative approach and diverse culinary background make him an ideal partner to showcase how MorningStar Farms is deliciously easy for restaurants to use when bringing a tasty and delightful plant-based twist to their menu,” said Jessica Waller, general manager at Kellanova Away From Home. “We’re excited to deliver globally inspired, plant-based dishes that resonate with today’s customers and offer one-of-a-kind culinary experiences.”
In addition to this special menu addition, MorningStar Farms Chik’n Tenders will be available at Evette’s as a protein add-on option for wraps, tacos, salads and more.
Aboujamral, from Flint, Michigan, grew up immersed in Lebanese, Mexican and Midwest American food cultures. Influenced by his family’s grocery store, butcher shop and farm, along with time spent in Tucson, Arizona, he developed a passion for cooking as a form of communication. After attending the Cooking and Hospitality Institute of Chicago, he opened Evette’s in 2020. He also owns All Too Well, a gourmet sandwich shop in Lincoln Park, with a second location in Chicago’s Loop. and plans to expand to Los Angeles in 2025.
MorningStar Farms offers an extensive portfolio of plant-based products that provide foodservice operators with flexibility to meet the growing demand for plant-based dining. The range is available nationwide through broadline distributors.
