Our expat community thrives on connection, and here at jingkids, we’re all about our readers, and what they need and want in order to maximize their time here in Beijing. Every Monday, we’re going to feature a prominent member of our expat community and get to know them a little bit better.
My name is Maria Pieterse and I have been a Vegan and Vegetarian-curious most of my life. As a Vegan from the meat capital of the world, South Africa, I faced so many challenges from the first day of my personal Vegan Voyage. I had to learn how to take criticism on the chin and still stand firm in my life choice. More importantly, this winding road has shown me how to be a happier, stronger, and healthier individual.
Throughout the years I had to learn the hard way and this inspired me to complete an International Diploma in Nutrition, Health, and Vegan Dietary Requirements to equip myself for a healthier lifestyle.
What made you decide to open a Vegan Deli?
I wish I could take credit as the creator of this amazing place called Pickles Vegan Deli. I am just the lucky partner of the Chef behind this great concept. Manuel is such a talented chef, he amazes me every day with the incredibly tasty food he creates. The flavors are out of this world!! I would like to consider myself as the Muse though.
I have been Vegan since I was only 16 and a place that serves Vegan food that is hearty, and homey but also on the healthy side always seemed to be impossible to find. I have a group called “Meatless Motivation” on Wechat where I share interesting nutritional facts and recipes.
Pickles came about because of the world-class Plant-Based cheese Manuel is developing and producing for Grassroots. We literally started making the cheese from our home kitchen trying to get a recipe that is worth selling. After we finally got to a product that was hitting all the criteria boxes we took the next step in opening up a kitchen where Manuel could continue creating new and exciting Grassroots Plant-based cheese and a Takeaway menu to feature them. Our goal is to create vegan cheese dishes that are even better than non-vegan food to give everyone a great Vegan meal. “Challenge accepted!!”
What was the most challenging thing about starting up during the pandemic?
There have been many challenges, setbacks, and emergencies because of the pandemic during the start-up of Pickles, but we were very lucky to have great support from Grassroots, our friends, and the wonderful Vegan community. I do think if I have to try and pinpoint the biggest challenge this far it will have to be the ever-changing regulations during these times.
On the flip side, it is fair to say that these times have been really beneficial to our business too. We saw the potential in a delivery kitchen and found really creative ways to expand our business. We had a lot of fun coming up with new Set meals for our “stay-cation” deal every week and they were welcomed by the community too. It allowed us to start our own Consulting Business too. We are the team behind Creative Co. We offer many F&B-related consulting services, from individual Nutritional consulting to restaurant menu concept development consulting. We love to share innovative ways to include Vegan meals to a menu but also to improve existing items. Look out for some Pickles dishes featured as collaborations around town!
What’s your motivation to keep going?
Even though Manuel and I can be opposites from time to time, I believe we make a really great team. Opposites attract after all. Knowing that I have an incredible partner with me gives me all the confidence I would ever need to take on any challenge life might throw at me. What motivates me the most is knowing that this is just the begging. There are some truly exciting times coming!
How do you make sure Vegan food is still satisfying and delicious even for meat lovers?
I think it’s an easy formula. Be open to new flavor combinations and try new recipes. We always make sure the meal is exceptional and we like it first before we introduce it to our clients. ent.
How do you stay sane in all the madness?
I have such a great community of friends that I see as often as I can. We are part of a mindfulness community that was brought together by the amazing Masooma from Mindful Turn. We spend time dancing together, meditating, and supporting each other through tough times. We are a great mix of (mostly) women from many nationalities but we are all here together. It is a great feeling being there for someone but also to have some support when needed. We motivate each other by staying in touch and truly caring about each other.
What is your favorite thing about Beijing?
My favorite thing about Beijing is the infinite possibilities waiting around every corner. There is always something to do or to find in Beijing. Even though every hutong street might seem the same from a distance when you have a closer look you always find a very unique characteristic about it. Everything about Beijing is like that, the people, the food even the beauty salons! (Ha-ha) Even now after years of being in Beijing I still see something new and exciting that I’ve never seen before every day!!
To reach out to Maria scan the QR code below or order some of her fabulous food by scanning the code in the poster!
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Images: Maria Pieterse
