VEGAN OF THE MONTH: JUNE

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Crystal Pang

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What inspired you to go vegan?

C: The animals! I saw PETA’s Meet your Meat video when I was twelve years old, and I knew something had to be done. I looked at my dog and felt guilty that I loved her so much, yet ate animals without even thinking about it.

What are some of your favorite vegan restaurants?
 C: Peacefood Cafe is my favorite, and it’s a great date spot. Also, Champs is amazing for their red velvet pancakes. Oh and Paulie Gee’s for pizza…there’s too many!!
What are your favorite vegan dishes to make?
 C: My mom taught me how to make an amazing vegan Laksa. My mom ate Laksa growing up in Singapore, and she always made it for me when I was a kid. When I turned vegan, she found a way to take out the seafood aspects of the spicy curry noodle dish, and it’s amazing!
 What are common misconceptions about being vegan?
C: People always think that I’m super athletic and outdoorsy, but I would rather be in the city than in nature. I love hiking every now and then, but I also love my juice shops and high-rise buildings. People also think we are very angry. I’m not angry, in fact I’m known to always be happy. I’m vegan because I love and care about animals and that love carries over to my relationships with people. I think that’s true for most vegans, we have a lot of love to give, and we would love it if people embraced a more plant-based lifestyle, but we don’t hate you if you don’t!
What do you find is the worst part about being vegan?
C: Traveling can be difficult because I want to try all the delicious cultural foods, however, many international places have awesome veggie dishes too!
 What is the best part about being vegan?
C: Seeing the community grow! I love it when my friends tell me that they’ve become vegetarian or vegan and that they feel awesome doing it. There are great restaurants opening up in the city, and so much good food out there that never existed before.
What advice to you have for people who want to become vegan?

C: Take it slow and do lots of research. My first year being vegan, I ate a lot of french fries and pasta, which wasn’t very sustainable. Do research on what nutrients you need, and don’t feel bad if you accidentally eat something that isn’t vegan, it’s all about intention! Plus, there are a lot of alternative products to replace cheese, meat, etc. They are great for transitioning…eventually you won’t even crave those foods and crave salads (ooo salads…) Oh, and make some friends/follow people on Instagram, it’s always good to have a network to help you with any questions you may have!

How has your life changed since you’ve become vegan?
C: One major change is that I used to be super overweight. I used to eat a lot of buffalo chicken wings and fast food and was a chubby kid. However, once I became vegan, I lost 30 pounds, had more energy, and embraced the importance of wholesome eating.
What are the top 3 reasons to go vegan?
C: 1) The environment 2) The animals 3) Your body will thank you
What are your favorite vegan blogs/instagram/youtube channels?
C: I really love @lindsaysb, she’s so sweet and an amazing cook. I also love @heartofbianca, who’s a good friend of mine in Australia!
Do you have a blog, instagram, or youtube channel?

C: I have an Instagram @veganeatsnyc 🙂

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