It is that time of the month where I have the honor to introduce you to Mr. May. For those that may not have heard of him, that will all change today. He is not only a wizard in the kitchen but he is one hell of an actor and author. A resident of the city of Angels (Los Angeles), he is well known for his many talents… Not to mention he is just flat out a great guy with a great soul. If you ever get the chance to meet him I am sure you will agree. So with all of that being said, I give you Ayinde, Mr May 2016. make sure to follow @ayinde
Name: Ayinde Howell
Where do you live and where are you from?
I live in LA, Born and raised in Tacoma, WA
Age? Grown
What do you do for a living/profession? Creator, Author, Chef, Performer
What do you like to do for fun? Cook, throw parties.
.How long have you been vegan? All my life
What made you stay vegan? Well, I stayed vegan because it makes sense. For my body and I have the advantage of never missing meat.
What is the funniest misconception(s) that you have heard about vegans?
That we all preach and try to convert. I’ll cook for you, if you like it great if not that’s cool too. If you ask me about veganism I will educate you but only if you ask.
What is your Favorite thing(s) about being a vegan? The discipline it takes.
What do you think makes a Bad Ass Vegan? I cook, I workout (all the time) I’m creative … oh and I’m single.
What is the best vegan dish that you make in your kitchen?
Cuban Nachos with black beans and jackfruit
JACKFRUIT
2 tablespoons grapeseed or safflower oil
1/4 cup onion small dice
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
1 (20-ounce) can jackfruit (packed in water or brine, not sugar), drained
1 cup mojo carrillo (we can use Goya brand or make it)
Sour cream
Plantain chips
Diced onion
Diced tomato
Black beans
2 table spoons butter
1/4 cup onions
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
2 teaspoons cumin
2 teaspoons chili powder
1/2 cup water
salt to taste.
In a small skillet over medium high heat melt butter, sauté onions approximately 5 minutes, add garlic, sauté additional 2 minutes.
Add herbs, mix well, add beans, add water. Mix well reduce heat to medium low and allow to simmer for approximately 7-10 minutes. Salt to taste. Set aside.
- Jackfruit: Heat the oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the jackfruit and break it into shreds with a fork. add mojo carrillo in the to incorporate well. Cover and simmer for 7-10 minutes on low heat. Taste and adjust spice to your liking.
Assembly
On a large oblong plate make a bed of plantain chips, add jack fruit and beans add toppings and garnish with fresh cilantro and sour cream.
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What is the best Vegan Restaurant you have ever had the pleasure of eating at? Honestly, my own secondarily Plum bistro
What advice do you have for those that are thinking of transitioning to a vegan lifestyle? You have been eating the way you are for as long as you are old. Take deliberate steps that you know you can accomplish. If you live in a not so vegan friendly city, form or join an online vegan community. There are many find on that suits you and your reason for being vegan. cook a lot if you can’t cook, learn. And stick to it! You can do it!
