All About Veganism
Did you know the term vegan was coined by Donald Watson, a British animal rights activist in the 1940s? Moreover, it describes the philosophy that animals should not be exploited and hurt for food or other purposes. Vegans do not consume animal products and foods. This includes meats and dairy, honey, leather etc.
Some of us wonder why anyone would not want to consume meat considering our Kenyan craze for “nyama choma”. Here’s a look into the vegan world and their choice of lifestyle.
Veganism is a widespread lifestyle practice these days that has been embraced largely for many reasons. For instance, the various health benefits, to protect animals and the environmental benefits that come with it.
Health benefits
Plant-based diets lower the chances of type 2 diabetes, reduce blood pressure levels, and increase metabolism. Moreover, it lowers cholesterol and ultimately reduces the chances of various cancers.
To protect Animals
About 150 million farmed animals are killed each day for profit. Overfishing, climate change and pollution have led to scientists expecting fishless oceans by the year 2048. Individuals adhering to a vegan lifestyle advocate for the protection of animals.
Environmental benefits
A plant-based diet promotes a sustainable life that helps combat pollution, moreover it aids lowering emission of greenhouse gasses. Firstly, factory farming is responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and pollution.
- Livestock and their byproducts are accountable for 51% of all greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide.
- 2,500 gallons of water are needed to produce 1 pound of beef.
- And animal agriculture is responsible for up to 91% of the Amazon rainforest’s destruction.
In addition to their environmental and health benefits, a plant-based diet is delicious and diverse. It provides a large variety of options and tastes that would tempt anyone to adopt the lifestyle. Here’s a vegans guide to Mama-Ashanti’s plant-based options.
Delicious Mama Ashanti Plant-Based Options
1.KELEWELE – Hot spiced deep fried diced plantain.
This delicious and aromatic mouth-watering dish is a blend of ripe plantains, ginger, and spices that are cut into bite-sized pieces and fried to perfection. In addition to its incredible flavour, it is incredibly versatile.
It can be eaten as a snack, a side dish, or even as a main course with some accompaniments like rice or beans.
2. OKRA SOUP – Okra vegetable from West Africa cooked in Ashanti spices and red palm nut oil.
This hearty dish is made with fresh okra combined with a rich and flavorful broth along with a variety of aromatic spices and seasonings. Moreover, this combination creates a truly unique and delicious taste experience. The soup is hearty and filling, perfect for a chilly day or when you’re in need of some comfort food
With its vibrant green colour and beautiful presentation, Okra soup is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
3. EGUSI SOUP – Ground pumpkin seeds cooked together in spinach and West African spices in red palm nut oil.
Egusi soup is made with ground melon seeds, which are then simmered with a variety of flavorful herbs and spices. Furthermore, ground Egusi seeds give a unique flavour enhanced by the use of fragrant ingredients like onions, garlic, ginger, and chilli peppers.
The soup’s rich and creamy consistency is due to the addition of red palm nut oil, which gives it a beautiful golden colour and adds to its rich flavour profile. Whats more, this dish is not only delicious, but it is also highly nutritious.
4. JOLLOF RICE – Long grain rice cooked in spiced tomato sauce
This mouthwatering West African dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds. It is a delicious blend of long-grain rice, flavorful tomato sauce, aromatic spices, and a variety of vegetables. The rice is cooked to perfection and infused with the bold and savoury flavours of tomato sauce and spices. In addition to its unique taste, the dish is often prepared with vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Carrots are also commonly added to the mix, creating a colourful and nutritious feast.
Jollof rice is a truly comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.
5. FRIED YAM – Thick slices of West African-style fried yam, seasoned with spices and herbs
This dish is both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect as a delicious and satisfying snack or side dish.Moreover, what makes fried West African yam so appealing is its crispy texture, which is achieved by slicing the yam and frying them until they are golden brown.
The result is a satisfying crunch that gives way to the soft, velvety texture of the yam inside.
6. VEGETABLE RICE – Long grain rice fried with spring onion, cabbages, peas and carrots.
This all encompassing dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a flavorful and healthy meal. In addition, it is made with a combination of fragrant rice, crisp and colourful vegetables, and a range of savoury seasonings and spices.This dish is the perfect balance of taste and nutrition.
It can be customised with a range of seasonings and spices, from mild and sweet to spicy and bold, making it the perfect choice for any taste preference.
7. COLESLAW SALAD – Shredded cabbage and carrots, onions, and bell peppers mixed with a creamy dressing.
What makes coleslaw so appealing is its perfect balance of flavours and textures. The vegetables provide a satisfying crunch and a subtle sweetness, while the dressing adds a tangy and creamy richness that ties everything together.
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Egusi SoupKShs 1,400 -
Coleslaw SaladKShs 500 -
Jollof RiceKShs 950