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.
Hi, all, and welcome to yet another round of Vegan Chews & Progressive News (# NewsandChews)! Sorry about missing last week’s post; I was knee-deep in extra-large cardboard boxes and winter clothing to transfer into storage…hooray for moving back home for the summer! Now that I’m settled in Madison (living in another decades-old co-op & working at my local farmed animal sanctuary), I’m pleased to recommence the # NewsandChews party.
This one features two unpretentious yet show-stopping dishes–the first, appropriate for spring; the second, ideal for summer–as well as a luscious dessert with minimal ingredients and maximum satisfaction. Then, for stories, I’ll share some (I feel) important critiques on the manner in which media coverage has portrayed Caitlyn Jenner and her transition, and the issues that such coverage obscures. Plus, an adorably succinct animated vid on consent, and one of the most emotionally honest books I’ve ever read. Enjoy!
Favorite Newly Published Recipe
Savory
Caramelized Fennel on Herbed Polenta
Via 101 Cookbooks
Photo via Heidi Swanson.
Fennel will soon arrive at the farmers’ market, which means that tons of juicy, succulent, summery joy will enter into my life once more. And what better way to add to that joy than with creamy polenta, vibrant herbs, and a touch of ever-magical maple syrup? Just make sure to sub coconut oil for the ghee and vegan hard cheese like Treeline for the Pecorino, y’hear?
Sweet
Peanut Butter-Banana Cookie Dough Shake
Via Blissful Basil
Photo via Ashley DeMillo.
I just wasn’t really aware that it was possible to fit this much sweet creamy deliciousness into one glass…
Best Recipe I Made This Week
Caponata Panzanella
Via The First Mess
Photo via Laura Wright.
Part of one of the last meals my Ferry housemates and I shared as a house, this panzanella is chock-full of juicy roasted vegetables, impeccably textured bread, and savory undertones of oregano. Make a big batch and enjoy it for the whole week.
Must-Read Article(s)
Commentary on Media Coverage of Caitlyn Jenner
Photo via Vanity Fair.
Hooray for increased trans visibility and respectful (for the most part) recounting of Caitlyn Jenner’s story, but boo to the obscuring effect that media coverage of Caitlyn’s narrative has on the experiences of less privileged trans people. Below are three articles that delve into the details of this obscuring:
Do You Applaud Caitlyn Jenner Because She Is Brave, or Because She’s Pretty?
Via Meredith Talusan at The Guardian
Call Her Caitlyn But Then Let’s Move on to the Issues Affecting the Trans Community
Via Chase Strangio at Common Dreams
Revealing Caitlyn Jenner: My Thoughts on Media, Privilege, Healthcare Access & Glamour
Via Janet Mock
Favorite Podcast Episode or Video
Tea & Consent
Via Blue Seat Studios
Photo via Blue Seat Studios.
I’m a bit late to the game on this video (though I totally would have shared it last week had I not been all in a tizzy with packing), but just in case some of ya’ll haven’t seen it yet, please enjoy this supremely coherent and simple explanation of consent, as told by stick figures with tea.
Book Recommendation
Fun Home
By Alison Bechdel
Photo via Publishers’ Weekly.
Alison Bechdel‘s work — starting with her comic strip Dykes to Watch Out For and moving into her graphic novels — has been widely celebrated for a while now, even in the form of a Broadway play. And yet, it took me until last week to finally get my hands on her seminal text Fun Home—one of the most emotionally honest, relatable books I’ve encountered in a great while. Don’t be surprised if you finish this one in a single sitting.
In solidarity, Ali.
It’s too bad Caitlyn Jenner is a Republican. She doesn’t get it when it comes to issues like war, voting rights, saving the environment, civil rights, women’s rights, etc. It’s all about her and to hell with the rest of society.
What do you think of Emma Sulkowicz’s new project? I’ve been looking for some kind of coherent feminist explanation/defense of the video, but all of her erstwhile allies seem weirdly silent.