Book Zarna’s one-night-only vegan supper club in London this January! Enjoy a plant-based culinary journey through India’s rich flavors.
This article spotlights Zarna and is the third and final interview in our mini Veganuary series, spotlighting hosts who bring plant-based cooking to life with passion and creativity.
Talking to London Supper Club Host Zarna
Zarna's dinner Yatra - A Culinary Journey Through India will take your taste buds on an enchanting culinary journey across the diverse landscape of India. With just one event this month, you don't want to miss out.
The host has carefully curated the menu, using her fond memories of living and travelling across different parts of India, and gives a unique personal twist to each dish making into something you would have never tasted before.
Want to learn her secrets to a fulfilling plant-based diet? Let's dive in to our conversation and get Zarna's best tips on being vegan.
Opinions on Veganism and Hosting Inspiration
Why Did You Decide to Go Vegan?
I decided to become vegan about eight years ago after growing up in a vegetarian household and being deeply influenced by my mother, who took me to volunteer with animal-based NGOs. This early exposure fostered my love for animals and commitment to their rights. Over time, I became more aware of the environmental and ethical impact of my choices, and transitioning to veganism felt like a natural step to align my actions with my values. I also joined PETA India full-time to further my advocacy for animal rights and sustainability. For me, veganism is not just a lifestyle choice—it's a way to live compassionately and contribute to a more sustainable, humane world.
What’s the Most Underrated Aspect of Being Vegan?
I think one of the most underrated aspects of being vegan is the mental and physical well being (given the one balances their plate properly); and the satisfaction of knowing that you are not contributing to the cruelty that animals have to go through. It opens you to explore the incredible variety and richness of global cuisines that are naturally plant-based. Many people often think of vegan food as being limited or bland, but in reality, cultures all over the world, especially from regions like India — have long embraced plant-based eating as part of their culinary traditions.
It’s exciting to discover how many traditional recipes are vegan by default, and how a plant-based lifestyle opens up a whole new world of flavours and ingredients to explore. Many vegan staples like tofu, tempeh, edamame, beans, nutritional yeast are packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, but they don’t always get the attention they deserve.
What Do You Wish Non-Vegans Understood About Vegan Food?
I wish non-vegans knew that vegan food can be just as flavorful, satisfying, and varied as any non-vegan meal. There are already a plethora of naturally vegan recipes and with the growth of plant-based alternatives like dairy-free cheeses and meats, vegan food has come a long way, offering innovative options that don’t compromise on taste or nutrition. It’s not just about substitutes—it’s about exploring delicious old and new, cruelty free ways of eating.
What Inspired You to Begin Hosting Plant-Based Supper Clubs in London?
I have enjoyed cooking and helping around in the kitchen since I was 8 years old and feeding my friends/family brings me ultimate joy. In recent years, my partner and I have really enjoyed hosting friends and family in our home, esp. after buying our first home together here in London. So when we recently heard about the Supper Club concept - we were very sure that this is something we must try!
How To Enjoy a Plant-Based Diet
What’s Your Go-To Blant-Based Meal?
The simplest Indian meal "Dal chawal" which is rice and lentils has been my go-to comfort meal (which is naturally vegan) ever since I was a child, and probably a warm bowl of ramen would be a close second option for me.
What Do You Always Have Stocked in the Pantry or Fridge for Cooking Up a Nutritious Plant-Based Meal?
'Tofu' and 'Peas' are my ingredients of choice that I try to keep stocked at all times, given its versatility in terms of taste and its exceptional nutritional value esp. the protein content. These ingredients are also reflected in the supper club menus that I create.
Where Have You Eaten the Best Vegan Food?
I'll be lying if the answer is anything but my home country India and within India it has to be the food cooked in my own home and my in-laws home, by my two mothers who coincidentally also share a common name - Sudha! To name a few fav dishes - methi mooli makki paratha (flat bread made with radish, fenugreek leaves and cornmeal), bharwa bhindi (lady finger stuffed with Indian spices) and the good old dal chawal.
Zarna is running this supper club for just one day this January. Make sure to book your seat before it's too late and check out other fantastic dining experiences in London this Veganuary and beyond.
