RECIPE. Sep 3, 2011

Aloo Gobi Confusion

We had some very good friends over for dinner last night. We got to talking about sustainability, veganism, vegetarianism and those dirty carnivores like myself. They are vegan and I eat meat. They agreed to eat shrimp that I was cooking in my spring rolls and I was clarifying if they made an exception for me or for seafood in general. They confessed they just don’t like to be rude when going out or going over to other peoples homes when food is made in their honor. The boundaries for what they will and won’t eat are still hazy, even for them.

We also talked about how the land is used, even for humanely raised cattle, pork, lamb and poultry could still be put to best use to feed a larger majority of people if used to grow grains, vegetables, etc.

That got me to thinking about whether or not I am really doing best by this earth and the people on it, we live on consuming meat, even the “good” kind. I love the stuff, don’t get me wrong, I worship bacon at times.

I just wonder whether I could meet my needs and the needs of my family without meat. Could I be a true vegan? I’m not sure. The conversation surely motivated me enough to do some more thinking about my eating habits. So this post is in honor of eating off the land, true vegan style. Give me your thoughts and opinions, get me educated and tell me how you wrestle with these questions.

Heat oil in a large pot on medium-high heat and add onion. Cook until softened, about 4 minutes, then stir in garlic and cumin. Continue to cook until onion begins to brown.

Stir in tomatoes and coconut and the coriander, salt, turmeric, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. Stir until mixture begins to boil, then put in the potatoes, cauliflower, and garbanzo beans. Blend well. Reduce heat to low and cover.

Simmer until the potatoes are tender, 45 minutes to an hour (this will depend on the size of the potato chunks). Sprinkle in the garam masala, stir, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Discussion