About Gaia Pulses | Organic Food Delivery London

Delicious - Nutritious - Sustainable

People who eat our food often say it brings them home. Organic, plant based wholefoods, cooked in small batches with a lot of love, for us and for Mother Earth.

Delicious

Our food comes from authentic Greek culinary culture that is famous for its great taste. We use exclusively organic pulses from Greece which are super tasty because they are grown in ideal microclimate conditions. We choose to use only organic, locally sourced vegetables for better taste, increased amount of nutrients and respect for mother nature. The Organic Extra Virgin Greek Olive Oil, delicious Mediterranean Spices and Aegean Sea salt also play a big role in our great taste.

The ultimate truth is that these are recipes passed on through generations of Greek grandmothers and not created in laboratories and I am sure you will be able to taste the difference.

Nutritious

Pulses are very low in fat, packed with protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. Our meals, awarded by the 'Free From Food Awards' do not contain any allergens, additives or chemicals. They are prepared in the traditional way, soaked and sprouted and they are slow cooked to maintain their high nutritional content. They induce brain activity and keep us full for longer, offering long lasting energy. With zero cholesterol and a low glycemic index, pulses are suitable for people who want to control their weight, as well as decrease their risk of cancer and heart disease.

We revisit traditional Greek recipes from a modern nutritional perspective and we discover how wisely all the ingredients have been combined with each other. We refine them to aid digestion and to help our bodies absorb all the nutrients available. We add the Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Fresh Lemon Juice at the end of the cooking process to protect the nutrients and antioxidants from the heat. We add Turmeric, a super antioxidant and we combine it with Black Pepper to make it bioavailable. These are only a few of the things we do in order to ensure the food tastes good and that it keeps everyone happy and healthy.

Why Pulses?

We choose to cook Pulses because they are the most sustainable crop in the history of food. In Greece we grow up eating pulses at least twice to three times a week. Pulses are being cultivated in the Mediterranean since the 3.000 BC. By now, we have mastered the way of growing them, cooking them and eating them. I am here to share old knowledge that has been passed on to me by my ancestors.

Recent studies showed that the common denominator between the regions characterised as Blue Zones because people live past their 100 years of age, is simply the fact that their protein mainly derives from plant sources.

Pulses have played an important role in the preservation of humanity and in civilisation growth throughout history. With the highest protein content in the plant kingdom, pulses also have an important role in our future.

Sustainability in our core

Our dishes delivered sustainably in Reusable Containers:

A few years ago we were the 1st ones to offer organic food in compostable packaging and now we are the 1st ones to offer organic food in reusable containers. Yes, for us it is all about integrity and focusing on sustainability all the way.

It is commonly known that recycling in the UK is just not working. Climate change dictates real actions towards eliminating our carbon footprint and we just cannot produce rubbish every time we drink or eat.

At Gaia, we make our delicious dishes available in reusable containers for unlimited uses. We are collaborating with other mindful local organizations and we deliver our goods in reusable containers with cargo bikes. We are all working together for developing a strong local and sustainable economy.

They say change begins from within us. Then it is happening in our home, our neighborhood and the world.

Thank you for not losing hope

Our Story

We all deserve access to real food; We all deserve a future.

Gaia Pulses means "Earth is alive" - this is my message to the world.

I am here to offer food for our future.

I will never forget the smell of my grandmother’s Fasolada*. She was a legendary cook because she could transform the most simple of ingredients into sheer joy.

The long table glowing draped with the white tablecloth, was set in the shade of the tall trees in her garden and laid simply with pickles, olives and bread. The whole family gathered for lunch. My grandmother would serve everyone’s bowls to the brim, my grandfather would strike a joke and with a glass of the house white in hand, we would all laugh and cheer, "Yia mas! - To our health!". We would then savour almost in silence another one of her glorious peasant foods. That's how good her food was.

My family taught me there is a lot of truth in the old knowledge. Not only that we are what we eat, but how we think and feel depends on what we eat.

When I came to London, I realised how the modern way of life has detached people from nature - particularly from eating natural, healthy, feel-good foods. I wondered how long could we last for if we keep on eating mass produced, processed meat and what is the real cost of those £1 burgers for the planet and ultimately for us.

My producer’s job suddenly felt meaningless so I quit and my passion became to do my bit and offer our world a chance.

I knew a great source of ethical, sustainable and delicious form of protein that offers long lasting energy, keeps us full, induces our brain activity and makes us and the planet feel great! - The foods that my grandmother used to cook, and the many generations of Greek grandmothers before her: Pulses! The cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet which allowed my people to eat meat only once a month and in return offered them a happy, long and healthy life. This 'food of the poor' I believe is the real ‘Food of the Gods’ and I decided to cook it to perfection and to share it with you in the most ethical and sustainable way possible for us and for the planet.

We all deserve access to real food; we all deserve a future.

Our ingredients

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Is there a Difference Between a Vegan and Plant-Based Diet?

When it comes to diets focused on plant consumption, the terms "vegan" and "plant-based" are often used interchangeably. However, they are not the same. This article will clarify the differences between a vegan and a plant-based diet, highlighting why each is unique and beneficial in its own way.

What is a Vegan Diet?

A vegan diet is more than just a way of eating; it is often part of a broader lifestyle and belief system. People who follow a vegan diet abstain from consuming any animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and even honey.

This decision is usually based on ethical, environmental, and health reasons. Vegans often avoid using animal-derived products like leather, wool, and silk, extending their ethical considerations beyond food.

What is a Plant-Based Diet?

A plant-based diet focuses on consuming whole, unprocessed plant foods. This includes fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes (like lentils, chickpeas, and beans). People who follow a plant-based diet do so primarily for health reasons. They aim to benefit from the nutrients and health advantages that a diet rich in plant foods can offer.

Health Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet

Research has shown that a plant-based diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. The emphasis on whole foods means that individuals on a plant-based diet consume high amounts of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which contribute to overall health and well-being. Unlike a vegan diet, which strictly avoids all animal products, a plant-based diet may include small amounts of animal products occasionally, although the focus remains on plants.

Pulses: A Key Component

Pulses, such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans, are a base of a plant-based diet. They are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them an excellent alternative to meat. Unlike processed vegan meat substitutes, pulses are whole foods that provide substantial health benefits.

Tip: Gaia Pulses offers a variety of pulse-based dishes that are perfect for anyone following a plant-based diet. At Gaia Pulses, we specialize in providing nutritious and delicious homemade meals centered around pulses, steering clear of processed meat alternatives to ensure a healthier diet. Our pulse-based meals are easy to incorporate into your routine and provide a nutritious alternative to animal products and processed foods. Enjoy the benefits of wholesome, plant-based eating with Gaia Pulses delivered right to your door!

Key Differences Between Vegan and Plant-Based Diets

Belief System vs. Health Focus: Veganism is often rooted in ethical beliefs about animal rights and environmental sustainability. In contrast, a plant-based diet is primarily focused on health benefits and the nutritional advantages of consuming whole plant foods.

Processed Foods: Vegan diets can include processed meat alternatives, which may not be as healthy as whole foods. Plant-based diets emphasize unprocessed, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and pulses.

Flexibility: A vegan diet strictly avoids all animal products, while a plant-based diet can be more flexible, occasionally including small amounts of animal products if desired.

Making the Transition

Whether you are considering a vegan or plant-based diet, it is essential to understand your motivations and goals. Here are some tips for making the transition:

Educate Yourself: Learn about the benefits and challenges of each diet. Understanding the nutritional requirements and how to meet them will help you make informed choices.

Start Slowly: If you are new to plant-focused eating, start by incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and pulses into your meals. Gradually reduce your consumption of animal products and processed foods.

Plan Your Meals: Planning your meals in advance can help ensure you get a balanced diet. Include a variety of foods to provide all essential nutrients.

Experiment with Recipes: Try new recipes and cooking methods to keep your meals interesting and enjoyable. There are many delicious plant-based and vegan recipes available online.

Seek Support: Joining a community of like-minded individuals can provide motivation and support. There are many online forums and local groups for vegans and those following a plant-based diet.

While vegan and plant-based diets share similarities, they differ significantly in their motivations and food choices. Veganism is often a lifestyle choice driven by ethical beliefs, while a plant-based diet is focused on health benefits only. Both diets can contribute to improved health and well-being, but it is essential to choose the one that aligns with your values and goals.

By understanding these differences, you can make informed decisions about your diet and enjoy the benefits of a plant-focused lifestyle. Whether you choose a vegan or plant-based diet, remember that the key to success is to prioritize whole, nutritious foods and find joy in the journey towards a healthier you.

5 Major Benefits of Eating Pulses

Eating pulses offers numerous health benefits. They are nutrient-rich, supporting heart health and aiding in weight management with their high protein and fiber content. Pulses also improve digestion and are a sustainable, eco-friendly food choice. Incorporate pulses into your diet for better health and a greener lifestyle.

Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet

A plant-based diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds, offers numerous health benefits. It improves digestion, boosts energy, and supports heart health. This diet is packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, it promotes sustainability and ethical food choices, benefiting both personal health and the environment.