Podcast Episode 180: A Taste of Indian Culture & Vegetarian Cuisine – Vandana Sheth

Vandana’s Food Philosophy: Eat Well Your Way For Life

Food is so much more than simply fuel for the body. Food connects us in a profound way to one another, to our environment, culture, memories and can bring a lot of joy.”

“My love for gathering around a table with delicious, home-cooked meals began as a child watching my mother, who so lovingly and creatively wove her kindness and open heart into every meal, pulling people in from the community to their family table and celebrations. When I moved to America, I was amazed at how many people would ask me what I ate if I was a vegetarian – only salads? Thus began my passion for sharing my heritage and culture through food. Every time we entertained at our home, or anytime I took food to a party, although I would have a variety of food choices for our friends, the biggest hit was always the Indian vegetarian option. Over the years, friends, colleagues, and clients often asked for my recipes but more importantly encouraged me to write a cookbook. This spurred my desire to write this book, sharing delicious and flavorful Indian recipes that tickle your palate and enhance your health. Recipes in this book are a culmination of some of my mom’s recipes, and inspiration from the amazing cooks in my life including my mother-in-law, aunts, friends, and my imagination. My Indian Table is my first cookbook; one of many to come in the future.” – Vandana Sheth

Tune in to this episode to learn about:

• The influences and inspiration that led Vandana to the field of nutrition and vegetarian lifestyle
• Insights into Indian culture and cuisine
• Key ingredients for stocking your Indian kitchen
• Plant-based meals and snacks in 30 minutes or less
• Suggestions for success when incorporating Indian ingredients or recipes
• Tips for flavorful light meals
• Easy meal formulas for plant-based eating

Food is nourishing to the soul and evokes many wonderful and joyous experiences. It is to be savored and not rushed. I truly believe that our relationship with food is part of self-care and can positively impact our health.”

Vandana Sheth RDN, CDCES, FAND

Vandana Sheth is a nationally recognized and award winning registered dietitian nutritionist, certified diabetes care and education specialist, and CEO of a successful nutrition practice that offers in-person counseling in the Los Angeles area as well as a virtual nutrition coaching program. She has over two decades experience and specializes in intuitive eating, vegetarian nutrition, diabetes and family nutrition. She is passionate about having a positive impact in the world. Through speaking engagements, media segments, and one on one connections with her clients, she communicates positive food and nutrition messages in the midst of all the noise. As a strong proponent of diversity, she has served on the advisory board of diversify dietetics since the beginning, is the diversity liaison for the Indians in Dietetics member interest group and has presented on this important topic through panel discussions at conferences.

Vandana graduated summa cum laude from California State University, Los Angeles, completed a certificate program in gerontology, certificate program in Food Allergy Management, is a certified intuitive eating counselor, and is board certified as a diabetes educator. She is the 2021 recipient of the Outstanding Dietitian Award for California Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 2020 recipient of the Outstanding Diabetes Educator Award for California Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, and the 2016 recipient of the Excellence in Business, Communications and Private Practice for the California Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

As a National Media Spokesperson for the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists and Former National Spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, she is a valuable resource for expert commentary, story ideas and background on a full range of food and nutrition topics. She has done over a thousand media interviews and is frequently quoted in print publications as well as TV and online media. In addition to her work with the news media, she has written articles for various news outlets and is the author of a cookbook – My Indian Table: Quick & Tasty Vegetarian Recipes.

In her free time, she loves to dance, go on long hikes with their dog shadow, make quick and tasty meals, enjoy fine wine and dining experiences, travel, as well as spend quality time with her husband and two young adult sons.

Resources:

Vandana’s Book | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

Sneak Peek Recipes from My Indian Table

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Partnerships:

Sound Bites is partnering with the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (formerly the American Association of Diabetes Educators)! Stay tuned for updates on the podcast, blog and newsletter!

Sound Bites is partnering with the International Food Information Council! Stay tuned for updates on the podcast, blog and newsletter!

Music by Dave Birk

Produced by JAG in Detroit Podcasts

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