The #BeansOnTheMenu initiative is designed to encourage local restaurants to feature beans in their dishes. By partnering with eateries, chefs, and food enthusiasts, the campaign seeks to elevate beans as a key ingredient for health and environmental sustainability. The initiative will include a series of events, meal promotions, and educational programs.
Beans are known for their substantial nutritional benefits, including high protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium, iron, and folate. They are also a sustainable crop, enriching the soil with nitrogen, requiring less water, and producing a smaller carbon footprint compared to other protein sources. By adding beans to their menus, restaurants can offer healthier options while supporting local farmers and aiding environmental conservation.
Mikul Shah, Director of EatOut, expressed his excitement about the collaboration: “We are thrilled to partner with Beans is How to bring the #BeansOnTheMenu initiative to life during Nairobi Burger Week. This collaboration not only celebrates the culinary creativity of our chefs but also promotes healthier and more sustainable food choices for our community.”
Kristin Gutekunst, Campaign Director at Beans is How, emphasized the initiative’s goals: “Beans are a climate-smart powerhouse of nutrition, but they are in need of a rebrand. By incorporating them into popular dishes like burgers, and partnering with EatOut and top restaurants, chefs, and influencers across the country, we can get people excited about this humble but incredible food group. We are thrilled to embark on this shared journey to support a transformation towards more sustainable, healthy diets in Nairobi and beyond.”
Chef Pischler, co-founder of Black Aprons, highlighted the versatility of beans: “Beans are a humble yet powerful ingredient, capable of transforming a dish with their rich flavours and nutritional benefits. This collaboration allows us to reimagine the classic burger, infusing it with elegance and depth. I’m thrilled to present these gourmet creations during Nairobi Burger Week, showcasing the sophistication and versatility that beans can bring to the table.”
Nairobi Burger Week will run from August 22 to September 1, 2024, with participating restaurants across Nairobi offering special bean-based burger creations. The event will also feature chef demonstrations, social media contests, and various other activities.
Restaurants and chefs interested in participating in the #BeansOnTheMenu initiative can sign up through the EatOut platform at https://eatout.co.ke/nairobi-burger-week. Food enthusiasts are encouraged to engage on social media using the hashtag #BeansOnTheMenu and share their own bean-based culinary creations.
The #BeansOnTheMenu initiative is poised to transform Nairobi's culinary landscape by encouraging healthier eating habits and promoting sustainable food practices. Join us in celebrating the incredible versatility and benefits of beans during Nairobi Burger Week and beyond.