A recent Dopsu survey reveals diet's big role in romance with many adjusting their eating habits for love, some even bending the truth to impress, Bamboo Manager And Brand Ambassador Agnes Makosa unpacks this intriguing trend ahead of Valentine’s Day.

9 February 2024: Love is in the air, but did you know it's also on our plates? As Valentine's Day draws near, the spotlight isn't just on traditional tokens of affection but also on the dining table, where culinary preferences are becoming an expression of love.

A fascinating study by Dopsu, a pioneer in plant-based meats, found that 28% of millennials are willing to reduce their meat consumption for someone special. The intrigue deepens with over a quarter of respondents identifying as flexitarian, and a startling 20% of men admitting to altering the truth about their dietary habits to impress a date. This Valentine's Day, vegan cuisine emerges as an unforeseen yet profound way of expressing love.

Manager and Brand Ambassador at Bamboo Plant Power, Agnes Makosa sheds light on the trend of couples embracing veganism together, turning their meals into declarations of affection and sustainability.

"The surge in vegan couples is heartwarming," Agnes shares. "It's a testament to the power of shared values and the desire to connect through food."

For those seeking to spice up their Valentine's Day with a touch of romance, Agnes recommends incorporating plant-based aphrodisiacs into the menu. Avocado, strawberry, and dark chocolate take centre stage, known not only for their deliciousness but also for their ability to set the mood.

“Imagine starting with an exquisite avocado and strawberry salad, kissed with a balsamic reduction. Follow it up with a mushroom risotto, topped elegantly with roasted asparagus. And for dessert? Indulge in a luxurious dark chocolate mousse, infused with the passion of raspberry and passionfruit – the epitome of a memorable meal,” said Makosa.

Chocolate, the quintessential symbol of Valentine's Day affection, also gets a vegan makeover. The vegan chocolate market is brimming with innovation, from handcrafted batches by artisan chocolatiers to bold new flavour pairings, offering something special for every palate.

"Vegan chocolate is experiencing a golden era, fuelled by a demand for ethical, sustainable choices," said Makosa. “This shift has led to a wide array of options, including silky almond milk chocolate bars and truffles exploding with unique tastes, all the while adhering to principles of ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility,” said Makosa.

Makosa suggested these top vegan main desserts to consider for your Valentine's Day celebration:

• Vegan Chocolate Lava Cake - Nothing says romance like the rich, gooey centre of a chocolate lava cake. Serve this warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.
• Raspberry and Chocolate Cheesecake - This no-bake cheesecake combines the tartness of raspberries with the richness of chocolate on a crunchy nutty base, making it a refreshing yet decadent choice.
• Vegan Tiramisu - A classic Italian dessert reimagined without dairy. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone-style filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder create a sophisticated and delicious treat.
• Red Velvet Cake - A vegan version of this classic cake maintains its signature velvety texture with beet juice for natural colouring, making it a visually stunning and tasty dessert.

-- ENDS --

About Bamboo: Bamboo Plant Power is a renowned vegan restaurant that specialises in creating delectable, plant-based meals enjoyed by both vegans and non-vegans. With a commitment to sustainability and a passion for promoting healthier eating choices, Bamboo Plant Power has become a favourite among South Africans looking to embrace a more conscious and nutritious lifestyle.