Mississippi Vegan Timothy Pakron: Celebrating Love, the Environment, Animals & Good Food by Donna John

Timothy Pakron has made quite a name for himself in the vegan world. Born and raised in Mississippi, the Mississippi Vegan studied art in college, majoring in Photography and Painting. His passion of the vegan lifestyle (he’s been vegan for over 10 years) led him to become a full-time chef and food stylist – not to mention successful blogger and soon-to-be cookbook author. His cookbook, "Mississippi Vegan: Recipes and Stories From a Southern Boy's Heart," will be released this fall by Avery of Penguin Random House. Read on to learn even more about Timothy and living a plant-based lifestyle…

Q. What inspired you to write your cookbook?

“Oh, goodness. Well, it was more like the opportunity presented itself and I knew I had to take it. But once I began writing the book, I realized that what inspires me is the undercurrent of veganism that already exists within all of the food we eat. For the book, I focused on southern, Cajun and Creole cuisine. The love of sharing my creativity is the other main source of inspiration.”

Q. What are your favorite ingredients to cook with?

“Potatoes, onion, garlic, celery, mushrooms, fresh herbs and any local produce I can get my hands on.”

Q. What’s your favorite recipe from your blog or cookbook?

“My shiitake bacon or gumbo. They're just fantastic.”

Q. What would be your top tips for anyone just starting a plant-based lifestyle?

“First, recognize that veganism is about celebrating love. Love for yourself, the environment and animals. It's not about being perfect. Start by incorporating more and more vegan foods into your diet. Once you find recipes you love, keep making them. Second, try recipes from people you love, especially longtime vegans (like my blog). Making these recipes will make eating delicious vegan food accessible and fun. Make all of the recipes on my blog. You're welcome!”

Q. You forage for your own food! Any tips for someone who would like to try it?

“Read books, watch videos and learn to identify first. Then once you are comfortable, start to consume. Some beginner things to look for are redbud, violets, dandelion greens and wood sorrel. They grow everywhere!”

Q. Why should people “care more about the planet and set sustainability as their main goal?”

“Well, that just seems like a no-brainer to me – it's the least we can do for the planet! The least! This is our home. And it's also the home for many others. Let's all get it together and care more. Please.”

“Thank you for having me! You can stay in touch by watching my Instagram stories where I'm a full-time professional goofball. Or you can check out my blog for new recipes. Lastly, my book is available for preorder on Amazon. It's 125 recipes that are super delicious and fun to make. Just sayin'.”

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