South Africa is meant to celebrate its heritage on National Heritage Day on the 24th of September. Unfortunately, this day has been hijacked by the meat and braai brigade. It seems that South Africans' most unifying cultural element is burning the flesh of dead animals so that they can eat them. I understand that there are many happy memories around the fire with family and friends, usually on a beautiful South African evening, but we can partake in this tradition by replacing meat with healthy vegetables, while leaving the animals alone. Also, meat, especially the burnt variety found on the fire, is well-established to cause colorectal cancer, so it seems a switch to vegetarian would be good for the health of South Africans too. Truthfully, I'm not holding up much hope for that because it is such a proud tradition associated with rugby and other sports, where men feel like men managing the fire and meat, and drinking beer. But perhaps an odd soul here and there might be prompted to switch to veggies, or at least add them to their meal. I'm trying to put together a list of good braai ideas which I can post to Facebook a few days prior to the event. Something like this:
"Why not replace cancer-causing artery-clogging animal flesh with delicious cancer-fighting vegetables this National Braai Day. Don't forget the old favourites: grilled miellies, portabello mushrooms, toasted samies and potatoes. You could be adventurous and try grilled pineapple, eggplant, tofu and more. Don't forget Fry's products for tasty veggie sausages!"
And then I'll add some good recipe links. This is what I've found so far, but somehow I'd like something better - more conventional veggies and more appealing pictures.
http://www.vegkitchen.com/tips/vegetarian-barbecue/
http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/content/recipes/vegetarian/vegetarian-barbecue/ - This one includes cheese unfortunately, but I like the layout.
http://inhabitat.com/8-scrumptious-vegan-bbq-recipes-for-summer/ - I like this one as it's simple and sweet.
Do you have any suggestions?
I must be very careful with my phrasing as I imagine some South Africans will be furious at my statement. I don't want to simply use the words "Add" veggies though. I want it to be "replace". If it sounds like I'm talking to them (the SAFAs) perhaps they'll feel like I'm patronising them or telling them what to do. How do I make a suggestion without getting the wrong tone?
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