This Veganuary, plant-based champions and brunch experts, Strong Roots, has commissioned the ultimate report to unpack the nation’s love of brunch – from favourite dishes and rising trends to what Brits want more – and less – of! Their research revealed that brunch is firmly here to stay, with 46% of people agreeing that it is their favourite meal of the weekend – and almost half (49%) saying they couldn’t imagine missing brunch on the weekend. However, with 56% saying they are now eating brunch at home more often to avoid the cost of dining out, Brits are looking for ways to elevate their at-home mid-morning meals. Over 40% of Brits are trying to eat more plant-based meals this Veganuary, however, almost a third (31%) have admitted that the biggest barrier they face is lack of inspiration on what to cook, the biggest barrier. To bring some much needed inspiration, Strong Roots has partnered with cook, author, and 2021 Great British Bake Off finalist, Crystelle Pereira, to create three delicious veggie and plant-based brunch recipes this Veganuary, with handy tips on how to make them simple and quick, whilst still packing a serious flavour-punch. Busy Brits are keen to keep at home brunching as simple as possible – with half (50%) seeking out quick and easy dishes and 43% preferring recipes with fewer ingredients. To help Brits keep things simple, Crystelle has created her 5-ingredient Strong Roots Cauliflower Hash Brown Sandwich (pictured), with aromatic spring onions, oozy mozzarella or vegan cheese, a perfectly fried egg and a dollop of sriracha for added kick, sandwiched between two Strong Roots Cauliflower Hash Browns; crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they’re perfect for adding extra veg, and extra flavour, to your brunch. The popularity of hash browns shows no signs of dying down, with Brits listing them as their favourite brunch item behind the staples, eggs, bacon and sausage. What’s more, nearly a fifth (19%) of Brits rate them as a must-have brunch item. It has also been revealed that for time-poor Brits, speed is of the essence, with 50% thinking that brunch should take under half an hour to prepare. For a super speedy brunch which celebrates the nation’s love of hashbrowns, Crystelle has created her Miso Mushrooms on Crispy Sweet Potato Hash Brown ‘Toasts’. Shredded shiitake and oyster mushrooms add a meaty, earthy depth whilst the miso sauce, with miso paste, maple syrup, sesame oil, chilli flakes and hoisin sauce, packs a serious umami punch. Piled on top of Strong Roots’ Sweet Potato Hash Browns, Crystelle’s recipe perfectly balances savoury and sweet to form a mouth-watering, plant-based dish which no carnivore will turn their nose up at, and all on the table in under 30 minutes. When it comes to our favourite brunch dishes, the old classics still hold a place in our hearts; research revealed that the full English was voted the nation's favourite brunch, followed by a bacon sarnie and scrambled eggs on toast. While these classic staples remain firm favourite brunch time meals, the benefits of plant-based eating are increasingly being recognised, with 28% saying that eating plant-based food makes them feel like they’re doing their bit to help the planet, while a quarter (24%) say that eating plant-based makes them feel better physically, and a further 20% say they feel better mentally. In light of this, Strong Roots research revealed that almost two thirds (62%) of Brits want more plant-based brunch options, so Crystelle has created her Vegan Breakfast Tacos, for a knockout, planet friendly brunch. Using simple swaps, such as replacing sausages or bacon for Strong Roots’ deliciously crispy Garlic Roasted Sweet Potatoes, ensures maximum flavour - partnered with fried black beans, pickled red onions and zingy guacamole, it’s a totally plant based recipe with no compromise on flavour! A Veganuary no brainer. With 21% of Brits admitting that they’d prefer to have brunch with friends, rather than go on a night out, the study also found a general catch up with friends was named the most popular occasion for brunching and 64% think it’s the perfect excuse to get loved ones together. Other reasons for enjoying brunch include birthdays and engagement parties - with the average Brit brunching three times a month. More than half (53%) are likely to enjoy it with their partner while 34% typically eat it alone. Whether dining solo or bringing friends together, Crystelle’s Strong Roots brunch recipes are perfect for any brunching occasion. Crystelle said, “It is no secret that the brunch occasion is a weekend classic and it is one of my favourite reasons for family and friends to get together while appreciating good food. This Veganuary, my quick and easy plant-based recipes using Strong Roots’ delicious, simple and veg-packed products will help Brits who are stretched for time and looking for inspiration into new ways to elevate their brunch.” Samuel Dennigan of Strong Roots added, “Move over Sunday lunch, the nation has spoken and brunch is leading the way as our favourite meal of the weekend. With more of us eating brunch at home, Crystelle’s three quick and easy brunch recipes are a must try, especially for those taking part in Veganuary. 'We’re thrilled to see the nation is looking for more veggie meal inspiration and whatever veg you’re into, Strong Roots’ wide range of plant-based options offer something that will take your brunch menu to the next level.” Stepping in to add plant-based goodness to brunch your recipes are Strong Roots range of products, which include Cauliflower Hashbrowns, Spinach Bites, Sweet Potato Hash Browns, Mixed Root Veg Fries and Garlic Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Veg Nuggets, helping Brits to achieve healthier, simpler, and delicious brunchtime dishes. (source: https://www.strongroots.com/uk/)