To promote vegetarianism and to encourage a well-balanced plant-based diet, the Duedroi Rangwang Zhidhey Tshogchung, a Civil Society Organisation conducted a week-long training on preparing vegetarian cuisines in Thimphu. The training ended today. The CSO has been conducting such training every year since 2017.
On the final day of the training, the participants presented varieties of food made from vegetables, grains and dairy products. The participants prepared pizzas with mushroom cheese toppings, cheese sandwiches, ladyfinger and steamed buns with vegetable fillings.
Besides these dishes, the trainees were taught to prepare a total of 26 vegetarian cuisines. Moreover, they were engaged in discussions on the social and health benefits of choosing a plant-based diet.
“Our primary objective is to promote vegetarian meals and decrease the consumption of meat or non-vegetarian cuisine. One of the main reasons for people choosing meat is the absence of viable alternatives. So, individuals tend to opt for traditional meals that include meat. We will have to train people after thorough research into vegetable and vegetarian cuisines that can provide a taste similar to that of food made with meat,” said Karma Gayley, the Deputy Chairperson of Duedroi Rangwang Zhidhey Tshogchung.
Kinley Bidha, a participant said, “The week-long training was transformative for me. I have developed a deeper appreciation for plant-based ingredients. With the newly acquired skills, I plan on teaching my younger sibling who likes cooking.”
“After attending the training, I realised that it is not necessary to eat meat all the time. I hope to teach and share my skills and knowledge with my friends,” said Choki Dorji, another participant.
There were 25 participants from six Civil Society Organisations.
The Duedroi Rangwang Zhidhey Tshogchung was formed in 2015 and registered as a CSO in 2020.
Tashi Dekar
Edited by Sangay Chezom
