Beans for Beef

I'm just back from a trip across several states by train, returning by plane, which brought me up to date on the state of the food situation for traveling vegans----and I'm pleased to report that it's better than expected. Amtrak had vegetarian options at every meal (we had to bend on eggs and dairy) ---and Alaska Air offered a box of vegan-gluten-free-kosher items --- the first time we have seen the word "vegan" on an airline menu. We didn't need the box but almost bought it just to show our appreciation! We don't travel much but came home with renewed sympathy for those who do. Things are changing but mealtimes can still be a challenge. I'm happy to be back in my own kitchen where staying plant-based is so easy.

I'm happy to be back in touch with all of you, too. Here is the delicious Roasted Yellow Pepper and Corn Bisque that Cathy served us at our Spring Potluck:
Roasted Yellow Pepper and Corn Bisque

Christel in Germany found an interesting talk given by a professor of ecology here in Oregon -- Dr. William Ripple --- an expert on the environmental effects of human carnivory. He looks at the effect of meat production on the whole ecosystem and proposes a new slogan --- "Beans for Beef". It's worth a look:
https://www.drmcdougall.com/health/education/videos/free-electures/willi...

I heard from Joe here in Portland just before I left town and am pleased to pass on his whole message --- a spicy recipe he invented that needs a name --- and something for us gardeners -- a recipe for defeating aphids (hmmm...I'm guessing water is assumed though not listed, yes, Joe?):
Hi Eve,

Been thinking about you lately, my daughter visited and I got back into my kitchen and had a lot of fun making a dish for an Oregon Symphony musicians' potluck.

1 cup artichoke hearts

1 cup chopped olives

5 chopped green onions

1/4 cup Feta cheese or any comparably strong-flavored equivalent

2/3 cup chopped tomatoes

1-1/2 tsp ground Oregano

1-1/2 tsp ground cumin

Olive oil to taste

Vinegar to taste; I used rice vinegar in which float a number of Thai chilies, only a little bite

Other spices or ingredients as your refrigerator or produce section dictate

Mix it up and serve.

They raved about it and cleaned the bowl!

ALSO, Aphids...........

In a 16 oz. spray bottle, combine 1 tsp liquid detergent, one tsp cooking oil (I used olive oil) and 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce. Shake and spray on aphids.

I sprayed my heavily infested roses a month ago; the aphids were gone immediately and did NOT return! They were back this morning on new growth only, but a few minutes spray took care of that.

Thay might discourage dealing so harshly with them, but it is to allow the roses to live and prosper.

Cheers to the Sanghang, Joe

Happy cooking,

Eve