FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of questions that you may have about me or this site. It is ever-evolving and I will add new questions as I receive them. If there is a question related to the site that I have not addressed, please email me.
- Why do you call yourself The Nude Chef ?
Glad you asked. At first glance, it may seem rather strange that I have chosen The Nude Chef as a way to present myself to the world. Afterall, there are so many other names that I could have chosen. Here is where I’m coming from. As a naturist and a vegan chef, I believe that there is a strong connection between body, mind and food (many people would insert “spirit” in place of the latter, but food is all-encompassing because it connects us with nature and feeds us both spiritually and physically. Logically and realistically, we cannot reach our full potential on an empty stomach or with a diseased body). The way I see it is that naturists are in tune with their bodies in their unclothed state and vegans are in tune with the quality of food they put into their bodies. The two lifestyles complement each other perfectly. Since I am both a naturist and a vegan chef, The Nude Chef name accurately reflects my natural approach to life both in terms of my body as well as the whole, unprocessed foods I eat daily. I am comfortable with my nudity. It helps me to remain grounded and to show the world that I am who I am, warts and all (okay, so I don’t have any warts, but I’m sure you get the picture). I admit, it is a leap of faith on my part to open myself up to scrutiny, but it is my way of showing you that by listening to your inner voice, you have nothing to fear in life, except fear itself (I also draw this parallel in terms of the food choices you make everyday when you sit down to eat.) In short, I want to make a difference.
I believe that many people want to scale back on their meat consumption and include more whole, unprocessed foods into their daily meals. But too often, life gets in the way and despite their good intentions, they find themselves overwhelmed by the whole “eat healthy, go veg” mantra. They also have many questions: Will a veg lifestyle supply them with all the necessary nutrients? Will they have enough energy? Will they need to take additional supplements? What if their family does not support their decision? Will they get enough protein? What if….? The list goes on.
This is where I come in. As The Nude Chef, my goal is to help answer your questions and guide you toward a deeper understanding and connection of how what you choose to eat everyday empowers you to take control of your health and make a difference in the future of the planet and the creatures who share it with you. I know how difficult it is when you first start out on the road to following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. I know, because I’ve been there. I’ve spent more than 10 years learning by way of trial and error what works and what doesn’t work and I want to help you avoid the same pitfalls I did as a new vegetarian.
Whether or not you agree with my nude approach to make a difference in this world is not important. What is important is that I guarantee you have me to lean on during those trying times when you need guidance and motivation to continue on your journey toward a healthier body and an uplifted spirit. Whether your intention is to incorporate more meatless options into your lifestyle, transition slowly toward a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, or to go vegetarian or vegan immediately, I will help you to reach your goal, and that’s a promise.
Give me the opportunity to teach and guide you and together we will transform your life into one you will be proud to call your own.
- Where can I learn more about your background?
The About Sharon page shares more information about me.
- Where can I learn more about South Africa and its people and food?
Click on “About Sharon” for a drop-down menu that will give you the options to learn about South African food and wine as well as its people.
- As a newbie or transitioning vegan, what are the basic items you would recommend for stocking my pantry and refrigerator?
CLICK HERE for a list to help you get started. The list is a work in progress, so check back often for updates.
- I’m on a budget but would like to start making better food choices when shopping at the grocery store. What organic items should I focus on first?
Because they are susceptible to the highest levels of pesticides when grown conventionally, the following ingredients must ALWAYS be purchased as organic: tomatoes, bell peppers, potatoes, carrots, celery, cherries, grapes (imported), kale, lettuce, nectarines, peaches, pears and strawberries. CLICK HERE to learn more about organic benefits and food labels.
- I would like to support my local farmers. Where can I receive more information about farmers’ markets and co-ops in my area?
Go to Local Harvest and type in your zip code and/or state. It’ll supply you with everything from local farmers’ markets to CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) food suppliers that support local farmers in your area. To get an idea of what CSA is all about, visit Homegrown Co-op
- I’ve heard that a vegan lifestyle does not provide enough protein to be healthy. Is this true?
This is absolutely not true and probably the biggest myth that has been circulating about a vegan lifestyle. Consider that all vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds contain protein and must do so in order to live. Grains such as quinoa and amaranth are higher in protein than meat and without all the hormones and antibiotics associated with factory farm animals. Spirulina (a micro-algae and a nutritious source for protein) is so rich in protein that 1 teaspoon of powdered spirulina is equivalent to 1 ounce of beef. When it comes to protein, less is more since excessive levels of protein not only stress the kidneys but deplete calcium levels. Also consider that all factory farm animals are herbivores. Therefore, contrary to popular belief, meat-eaters do not receive their protein from animals, but rather from the corn that those factory farm animals ate while they were alive. This indirect process of receiving protein by eating animals is equivalent to funneling your food through a sewer. It’s not exactly a healthy way to live, no?
- Vegan recipes lack pizazz. Are some frozen vegan meals okay? Can you recommend any?
Firstly, let me address the statement about vegan recipes lacking pizazz. You’ve obviously never tried the recipes on this site 
But seriously, vegan recipes are no different from meat-based ones in the sense that it’s all about how you work with the ingredients to enhance their flavour. Before I was a vegan, I was a meat-eater and I remember many meals that were anything but memorable. So just because you have meat on your plate does not automatically turn your meal into one that is memorable. But it works the other way too; just because you are eating a vegan meal does not automatically mean it’s going to be boring and bland. The key is to move out of your comfort zone and to start experimenting with herbs, spices and aromatics (garlic, onions, citrus juices, capers, olives, vinegars–these ingredients are all considered aromatics). Also remember that cooking techniques play a role in enhancing ingredients. For example, instead of steaming your veggies, braise or saute them. Instead of microwaving (which I do not recommend–microwaving destroys nutrients), roast or bake. Start to think creatively and you’ll be on the road to enjoying vegan meals that will blow your socks off.
Secondly, frozen vegan meals fall into 2 categories: frozen veggies or frozen meat analogs. The former is fine; the latter should be enjoyed only in moderation. Meat analogs are what I call “vegan fast food” and just like any fast food, they should be enjoyed on occasion only. Meat analogs are essentially plant-based ingredients that are highly processed and have been chemically altered to mimic meat in various forms: chicken, beef, pork, or seafood.
Thirdly, some “vegan fast food” brands (if you’re especially craving BBQ “ribs” or a “meaty” burger) include Boca, Gardein, Nate’s, Amy’s, Lightlife and Morningstar Farms. Be cautious though, some items in a brand may not be vegan and may contain egg and/or casein (a dairy-based protein). ALWAYS read the food labels and if you’re unsure of whether or not an ingredient is vegan, play it safe and skip the product. You can always make your own homemade burger patties or BBQ sauce.
- What is the Forum all about and why should I join?
The forum is a way for visitors to The Nude Chef to share information with, and learn from, a community of like-minded individuals. Becoming a member is optional, but there are advantages to joining the forum:
- It allows you to post topics within the forum that might not be addressed in blog posts on the site.
- It’s helpful to read how other members have overcome obstacles they may have encountered on their journey toward a veg lifestyle.
- It’s reassuring to be part of a supportive community who understands your questions and/or concerns.
- It just feels good to help others when you can offer them tips that have worked for you.
- Why should I signup for your free monthly newsletter?
My newsletter is a way for me to say thank you to you for showing an interest in my website and the information I offer. All the content provided in each newsletter is exclusive to subscribers and not shared on my website. It includes delicious recipes, cooking tips, and so much more. Plus you receive a free 11-page ebook download called Eating for Life. What’s more, you can unsubscribe at any time and your information is NEVER shared with ANYONE. If you’re still unsure of whether or not to signup, please read some of the testimonials by clicking on the “Sign Up Now” tab on the Home page, where you’ll also see exactly what’s covered in the free download. I do hope you will signup and join the growing list of subscribers.
- Are all your recipes original?
Yes. All of my recipes are original and inspired by my South African heritage. Some recipes are passed down from my family and close friends in South Africa and have been adapted to be vegan.
- How do I find the recipe I’m looking for?
You may find it using the “Archives” menu in the right-hand side bar. Click on the year and then the month. Each month shows a detailed list of posted recipes. Alternatively, you may use the “Search” button to find what you are looking for.
JOIN THE GROWING LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS.
