It is time to allow men in the kitchen

Fadzayi Maposah-Correspondent

Zimbabwean men actually love being in the kitchen. 

They enjoy seeing how food is prepared and appreciate the portions available. 

By excluding them from the kitchen, we may be doing them a disservice.

During my fieldwork, I observe how my male colleagues behave.

I tend to monitor both genders, but the men often stand out, either because they dominate a particular trip or are in the minority. 

This week, while working in Matabeleland South and Masvingo, the men were in the majority.

In Matabeleland South, it was just two female team members, Noku and me.

In Masvingo, I was the only female member. At meal time, we sought out places known for good sadza. 

The food had to be hot, the cooks smart, and the facility clean. Ideally, we preferred a spot where we could see the caterer’s offerings.

This last detail reinforces my belief that men enjoy being in the kitchen. They actively ask about the menu, and once they have made their choices — often after much deliberation due to the variety of relishes — they may even request to see the pieces of meat available. 

Some men have even asked to wash their hands and to use the serving spoon to select the meat they prefer from large pots.

These are not small pots; we are talking about substantial, three-legged aluminium pots. Yet, these men are willing to risk being photographed and possibly exposed to their families, who may not approve of them participating in what is traditionally viewed as women’s work.

I often ask my colleagues why they choose relishes over other options, and I hear responses like, “because it’s not usually cooked at home, and I realise that I miss it.” 

When I inquire if they have expressed this at home, responses vary: some have spoken up but were discouraged, while others have remained silent, having been told that the kitchen is a woman’s territory. This is indeed sad.

It is time to allow men into the kitchen and give them the freedom to participate. 

We need to dismantle the misconception that men who enjoy cooking are simply greedy. 

Are women considered less greedy just because they are women?

However, I do find one habit among some men at these eateries puzzling: their tendency to request extra sadza even before they begin eating. 

They pile their plates high, creating a mini “Mt Inyangani” that they tackle until it disappears. 

When I say “mini Mt Inyangani,” I do not mean a small portion; rather, it requires significant effort to finish a mound of sadza.

Excessive consumption of sadza is not good for health. 

While starch is an important part of a balanced diet, providing energy, fibre, and other nutrients, consuming too much processed starch can lead to weight gain. 

Refined maize meal, commonly used, is less nutritious than small grain meal.

There is a rising incidence of non-communicable diseases in Zimbabwe and worldwide. 

These lifestyle diseases affect not only those who suffer from them but also families and society at large. 

Diets high in refined starches are linked to higher risks of diabetes, weight gain, and heart disease.

I have read that many processed starchy foods can be addictive, leading to overeating and subsequent weight gain. This brings to mind those men demolishing their plates at food points.

Most eateries serve refined mealie meal because it is easier and more convenient to prepare. However, some do offer “mugaiwa” mealie meal, which is more nutritious.

Moreover, a diet high in refined starches is linked to an increased risk of diabetes.

How does diabetes affect men? 

Research shows that men with diabetes are more likely to experience erectile dysfunction, which is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection. 

This topic can be uncomfortable for men, as it touches on their masculinity, but it is a reality that cannot be ignored. 

High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels in the sexual organs, leading to such issues. Aging and certain medications can also contribute.

Do not let your diet be the cause of these problems.

It reminds me of a sermon titled “Death in the Pot.” Take control of what you eat, as it significantly impacts your sexual health. Be the GOAT, even beyond November.