Raised in a family where vegetarianism is a way of life, Hema, along with her parents and children, embraces this lifestyle wholeheartedly.
Growing up, Hema was exposed to a diverse array of vegetarian cuisines, challenging the misconception that Indian families solely consume Indian fare. Her mother’s culinary prowess ensured that their meals were always exciting and innovative, showcasing the richness and versatility of vegetarian cooking.
Meatless Movement recently had the opportunity to chat with her.
Hema’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to vegetarianism, fueled by a love for flavorful and nourishing plant-based foods.
Please tell us more about yourself
Simple ingredients make the best eats
Hema Varsani | Vegetarian Food & Drink Recipes
I’m Hema, from London, UK, in her 40s, and a mum of 2. I’m a born and bread Londoner, I have lived here all of my life!
I’m from an Indian, Gujarati Hindu heritage, which is very much centered around a vegetarian based diet. I’m a lifelong vegetarian, as are my parents and my children.
I grew up on a wide variety of vegetarian food and cuisines, just because we were an Indian family, didn’t mean we ate just Indian food! My mum is a brilliant cook and is always trying out something new. We always had something different or new to eat, all of it vegetarian and never boring!
Yes some nights we would have Indian staples such a roti, vegetables, dal and rice, but we often had other cuisines influenced from all over the world too! This is probably why I love food from all over the world now! I do the same for my children now, we can have Indian one night and the next night it will be Italian or Thai, I want them growing up with a diverse vegetarian palate of all cuisines.
What difficulties are encountered when searching for vegetarian options?
I love being a vegetarian, I have never ever felt as if I’m missing out on anything good food wise!
Hema Varsani | Vegetarian Food & Drink Recipes
Living in London means I am very lucky as I rarely have any issues with finding good vegetarian food when eating out. I can still remember though, when I was at school in the 80s, the school dinners for vegetarians were appalling! I remember that some days we used to be served grated cheese with boiled egg and buttered bread! Gross especially as I don’t eat eggs! Thankfully schools meals catering for vegetarian kids have come on heaps since when I was at school!
Can you suggest top vegetarian eateries or dishes?
Being a vegetarian is far from boring, you can eat such a beautiful array of ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied and full!
Hema Varsani | Vegetarian Food & Drink Recipes
As a vegetarian I would recommend trying and cooking vegetarian cuisines from all over the world you will be surprised at just how varied the dishes are! I love cooking up vegetarian and vegan dishes at home, including vegan sushi, dal, mushroom manchurian, paneer tikka, vegan pad thai and beetroot hummus (photos attached).
What misconceptions surround vegetarians?
A vegetarian diet lacks vitamins and protein! Not true, by eating a varied diet full of fresh vegetables, pulses, beans and lentils, you can definitely pack in the protein and vitamins on a vegetarian diet!
If you are a meat eater, try switching to meatless meals at least once a week, that way you can build up a collection of good vegetarian meals that you enjoy and use as a base to build on to eat less meatless meals.
Hema Varsani | Vegetarian Food & Drink Recipes
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all images courtesy of Hema Varsani | Vegetarian Food & Drink Recipes