In a bid to promote healthier and more sustainable food choices, a new initiative has been launched to encourage Kenyan restaurants to incorporate more bean dishes into their menus. The campaign, dubbed #BeansOnTheMenu, is a collaboration between EatOut and the global initiative ‘Beans is How.’ Set to kick off during the highly anticipated Nairobi Burger Week, this campaign aims to highlight the nutritional benefits and culinary versatility of beans.
Beans have long been celebrated for their rich nutritional profile. They are packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium, iron, and B vitamins. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining a healthy diet. Additionally, beans play a significant role in sustainable agriculture, as they require less water and produce a smaller carbon footprint compared to other protein sources.
The #BeansOnTheMenu campaign seeks to elevate beans from a humble side dish to a star ingredient in Kenyan cuisine. By partnering with restaurants, chefs, and food enthusiasts, the initiative aims to integrate beans into a variety of dishes, thereby offering healthier options to patrons while supporting local farmers and environmental conservation efforts.
Nairobi Burger Week, a popular event among food lovers, will serve as the perfect launchpad for this initiative. This year, the event will focus on incorporating beans into burgers and other dishes, showcasing the ingredient’s versatility and nutritional value. Restaurants participating in Nairobi Burger Week will have the opportunity to create unique bean-based dishes, offering a fresh and exciting twist on classic favorites.
“We are thrilled to partner with Beans is How to bring the #BeansOnTheMenu initiative to life during Nairobi Burger Week,” said Mikul Shah, Director of EatOut. “This collaboration celebrates culinary creativity and promotes healthier and more sustainable food choices for our community.”
Kristin Gutekunst, Campaign Director at ‘Beans is How,’ emphasized the initiative’s potential impact: “Beans are a nutritional powerhouse that needs a rebrand. By integrating them into popular dishes and partnering with EatOut and top restaurants, we can generate excitement about this incredible food group.”
Chef Pischler, co-founder of Black, expressed his enthusiasm for the campaign, saying, “Beans are a humble yet powerful ingredient that can transform a dish with their rich flavors. This collaboration allows us to reimagine the classic burger, adding depth and sophistication. I’m excited to showcase these gourmet creations during Nairobi Burger Week.”
The campaign will feature a series of events, meal promotions, and educational programs designed to enlighten both restaurant owners and consumers about the benefits of beans. These events will not only highlight the nutritional advantages of beans but also demonstrate their versatility in various culinary applications. From hearty bean burgers to flavorful bean salads and stews, the initiative aims to inspire chefs to think creatively and incorporate beans into their menus in innovative ways.
The collaboration between EatOut and ‘Beans is How’ is expected to have a ripple effect across the Kenyan culinary scene. By demonstrating the potential of beans as a staple ingredient, the campaign aims to create lasting change in how beans are perceived and utilized in restaurants. This shift towards healthier and more sustainable food choices is not only beneficial for consumers but also supports local agriculture and environmental conservation efforts.
As the #BeansOnTheMenu campaign gains momentum, it promises to reshape the dining experience in Kenya, making beans a central part of the culinary landscape. Through this initiative, Kenyan restaurants have the opportunity to lead the way in promoting a healthier, more sustainable future, one delicious bean dish at a time.
