Chickpeas & Changes’s “Vegan Chews & Progressive News” series strives to promote artful vegan food and progressive discussion of social issues—both of which I view as necessary in fostering a society that prioritizes the well-being of all creatures (not just the rich, white, or human) over the continuous striving for profit/resource accumulation.
Just a reminder about the exciting news that Chickpeas & Change is now accepting submissions! I’m thrilled to be able to open this space up to voices from the anti-speciesist, feminist, anti-racist community. Check out this page for submission guidelines.
Wowza, we’re already at the 48th edition of Vegan Chews & Progressive News (# NewsandChews)! Below some truly spring-like recipes — both savory and sweet — you’ll find some exciting national security news, a podcast in celebration of this past solidarity-filled May Day, and some updates from the ever-incredible Sistah Vegan Project. Happy Friday!
Favorite Newly Published Recipe
Savory
Radish & Fennel Orzo Salad with Parsley-Lemon Vinaigrette
Via Healthy Recipe Ecstasy
Yep, the springtime dishes are in full swing over in the vegan recipe blogosphere. Though I seldom encounter a radish that I enjoy, this crunchy, bright salad might just win me over.
Sweet
Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Cheesecake
Via Allyson Kramer
I would be remiss not to round out the light recipe above with this rich dessert, especially since I’ve found myself on an enthusiastic peanut butter kick lately. And those swirls? Oof, I’m sold.
Best Recipe I Made This Week
Matcha Green Tea Cupcakes with Matcha-Coconut Frosting
Inspired by Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World
As a gift to two of my housemates, I whipped out the ol’ Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World to recreate Isa & Terry’s Green Tea Cupcakes. Instead of the glaze called for in the recipe, however, I frosted the cakes with matcha-spiked coconut whipped cream. An ideal spring dessert, if I do say so myself.
Must-Read Article
NSA Phone Surveillance Illegal, Federal Court Rules
By Nadia Prupis at Common Dreams
Just yesterday, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in New York ruled that “the bulk telephone surveillance program operated by the U.S. National Security Agency and revealed in 2013 by whistleblower Edward Snowden is illegal.” The concrete effects of this ruling are not yet clear, as Congress is still debating key sections of the related Patriot Act, but the decision does set a huge precedent against mass government surveillance in the U.S. Check out national security journalist Glenn Greenwald’s Twitter feed for the latest.
Favorite Podcast Episode or Video
May Day Special! Labor Shuts It Down From Baltimore to Long Beach
Via Belabored Podcast
Happy belated May Day! Celebrate (and continue to fight for) labor rights with this episode of the Belabored podcast, which reports on the solidarity marches between #BlackLivesMatter and labor protestors across the nation.
Book Recommendation Awesome Projects You Should Totally Check Out
Sistah Vegan Conference Recordings
Via A. Breeze Harper
In case you missed the phenomenal Sistah Vegan web conference that took place last month, you have the opportunity to access all of the 2-day conference proceedings for $25. All proceeds go directly to A. Breeze Harper, the conference organizer, and the continuation of the Sistah Vegan Project.
In solidarity, Ali.