A new documentary film, “Forks over Knives,” argues the virtues of a vegan diet. The benefits to your health and for the planet are well studied and undeniable, as this informative and entertaining movie demonstrates in a dramatic way. Graphs, charts and experts intermix with personal stories, such as that of Joey Aucoin who is on numerous drugs battling diabetes and hypertension, depression, fatigue and allergies. After switching to a diet of fruits and vegetables, grains and legumes, plus exercise Joey is off all drugs and has never felt or looked better.
In one of the best moments Dr. Calwell Esselstyn, a nutrition expert in the movie, replies to criticism that a plant-based, whole-foods diet is too extreme with the shocking but hilarious truth, “What’s more extreme than having your chest split open for bypass surgery?”
What you eat is of primary and absolute importance to your health, and a vegetarian or vegan diet is one of the easiest ways you can help the planet while helping yourself at the same time. I know that many people are not ready to change their diet rapidly and radically. But any change to a healthier diet is a good start. In the spirit of supporting this change I submit below one of my current favorite meals – it’s super easy, tasty, inexpensive, quick, and vegan!
Becca’s Rice Cracker Special:
1 or 2 Lundberg rice crackers (I like this brand as they are denser and don’t taste like styrafoam). Spread a little humas and tabouli (I buy the already prepared products as they are inexpensive, delicious and super convienent) on top of the crackers, sprinkle with sunflower seeds and voila! You have a delicious, healthy vegan meal in less than 2 minutes that costs about $1 max. per person. With this I might serve a cooked vegetable jazzed up with nuts or seeds, such as bok choy sauteed in hot, spicy oil with carroway seeds, or fruit.
For a vegetarian, though not stricktly vegan alternative, I might serve with a vegetable dish such as steamed broccoli and cauliflower sprinkled liberally with parmesan cheese, a little butter, salt and pepper. (I often make a big pot of vegetables at the beginning of the week and then reheat and eat for the the next several days for even greater ease and speed. OK, I’m a lazy cook, but it is delicious, healthy, inexpensive and quick which I’m sure would be appreciated by lots of people.
Do you have a favorite vegan dish or story? Please share!
