The Great Pretender from Nando’s is the mock-meat we’ve been waiting for

Recently, Nando’s introduced it’s first-ever veggie line, and let me tell you, The Great Pretender is a solid game changer.

If you’re vego like me, then you probably have been waiting all your life to be able to pop in for a cheeky Nando’s properly, because just asking for some chips doesn’t really qualify as having a proper feed.

Well, fear no more, as Nando’s recently introduced two veggie options: ‘chicken’-style mock-meat called The Great Pretender, and a black bean/quinoa infused Superfood Veggie Patty, which you can choose with a basting of your choice for the ultimate cheeky experience.

Of course, since Nando’s is keen to let you build your own meal, you can pop these bad boys on a classic roll, have it in a wrap, or even on top of a Power Up Bowl that’s chock-full of black rice, avocado, salads, cherry tomatoes, and roasted red capsicum.

Then, there’s even veggie sides to add on, like their Peri Peri grilled broccolini, and they’re ever-delicious sweet potato fries.

So, how do they size up to filling the chicken-flavoured wants I still crave after being vego for nigh on 15 years? So. Fucking. Satisfying.

First of all, it’s quite hard to do a chicken-textured mock-meat, and The Great Pretender got it pretty darn close, albeit not as tough. Then, with the basting (may I suggest BBQ?), it makes the chicken-like flavour pop.

Then, when you build it as you want to, placing veggies, extra sauce, and all the toppings on either a roll or wrap, you’re on your way to a dang good meal.

How’s the Superfood Veggie Patty, you ask? Just as yummy. This is for the ones who want a protein-filled meat substitute that doesn’t take on the form of meat, as you can see all the goodness that’s packed in it.

Boasting a mixture of quinoa, lentils, black beans, kale and chia seeds, it’s reminiscent of a really good black bean burger, and pairs perfectly on top of the veggies and rice that are included in the Power Up Bowl.

As for the new side, grilled Peri Peri broccolini, it also takes on a smoky, delicious aspect as it’s grilled, and served with the signature Peri Peri flavour we’ve all been craving. Then, you can also pair your new veggie delights with some classic sweet potato fries, too.

All in all, wonderful veggie-filled experience that satisfied my chicken-y, mock-meat cravings.

Check out The Great Pretender from Nando’s:

View this post on Instagram

??NEW! Meat the Great Pretender Protein.?? It’s the PERi-PERi chicken taste that’s plant-based! Perfect for when you fancy a meat-free meal but still need your PERi-PERi fix. Swap your chicken in any burger, wrap, pita, salad or paella for our high protein Great Pretender. Available nationally at Nando’s from today.?

A post shared by Nando’s Australia (@nandosaus) on Jul 20, 2020 at 5:40pm PDT

Get unlimited access to the coverage that shapes our culture.

Subscribe to Rolling Stone magazine

Subscribe to Rolling Stone magazine