TED Talks Daily A flavorful field guide to foraging | Alexis Nikole Nelson
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Aug 16, 2023 In a lively discussion, vegan forager Alexis Nikole Nelson shares her passion for wild foods and sustainable eating. She highlights the deliciousness of often-overlooked plants like dandelions and purslane, encouraging listeners to expand their culinary horizons. With humor and practical advice, she showcases how foraging fosters a connection to nature while promoting inclusivity in the foraging community. Alexis also provides three empowering tips for new foragers, along with a tasty recipe for kelp chips that celebrates natural flavors.
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Vegetarian Origins
- At five, Alexis Nelson asked to be vegetarian after realizing the cows in the field were the same as those grilled.
- Her parents stalled, sure she'd change her mind, but she went fully vegetarian at 12.
Foraging Explained
- Foraging combines identifying, collecting, and consuming wild food, like dandelions or wood sorrel.
- Many readily available, free foods are often healthier than store-bought counterparts.
Modern Food's Nutritional Decline
- Modern food breeding prioritizes travel, size, and mild taste, often sacrificing nutrition.
- Purslane, a common weed, is rich in omega-3s, iron, and vitamin C, surpassing many grocery staples.