‘Spoonful of Ginger’ raises awareness for Asian diabetes

A classical Indian dance was performed at “A Spoonful of Ginger” to raise awareness for Asian diabetes. (Image courtesy of Phoenix Tso.)

By Phoenix Tso

The Asian community and other supporters came out on March 18 for “A Spoonful of Ginger,” an annual gala that raises awareness and funds for the Asian American Diabetes Initiative at the Joslin Diabetes Center. Held at the Museum of Fine Arts, guests enjoyed an open bar and a roomful of Boston restaurants’ signature South and East Asian inspired hors d’oeuvres, while bidding on items at a silent auction and entering a “mystery box” raffle for $50 each.

This year’s event focused on South Asians, featuring a classical Indian dance and a chole chaat salad, made with green and red peppers and chickpeas. Sridaran Natesan and Ann Wong co-chaired the event, underscoring the threat of diabetes. “South Asians look lean, but we have a significantly higher risk [out of any group] of developing diabetes,” Natesan said.

Servers prepare food at the Museum of Fine Arts. (Image courtesy of Phoenix Tso.)

A Spoonful of Ginger also spotlighted Boston’s Chinese community as well. Chinese individuals are twice as likely to develop diabetes, along with other Asian ethnicities. Janet Wu of WHDH 7 News was mistress of ceremonies, while Nick and Eva Chau and celebrity chef Ming Tsai were honored for their contributions. Chinatown restaurants such as Xinh Xinh, Bao and Chinatown Café also participated, serving comfort food such as wontons and steamed rice flour buns filled with beef, ginger and scallions.

For more information about Asian Americans and diabetes, visit aadi.joslin.org.

This post is also available in: Chinese