Kathy Hester, celebrated vegan cookbook author and plant-based cooking expert, brings a fresh perspective to plant-based cooking, blending creativity with practicality to transform everyday meals. On the Plant Based Eating for Health podcast, she captivated listeners with her expertise in using kitchen tools like slow cookers, Instant Pots, and the Ninja Creami, proving that plant-based cooking can be both simple and exciting.
From Vegetarian Beginnings to Vegan Expertise
Kathy’s journey into plant-based living began in 1983 when she became vegetarian for ethical reasons. At a time when tofu and tempeh were hard to find, Kathy honed her skills in crafting flavorful, wholesome meals at home. Years later, she transitioned to a vegan lifestyle, initially spurred by her cookbook project, which focused on veganizing traditional slow cooker recipes.
Simplifying Plant-Based Cooking with Versatile Appliances
During her conversation with host, Kathleen Gage, Kathy addressed common fears about kitchen gadgets, particularly the Instant Pot. She emphasized the safety improvements of modern pressure cookers and shared tips for getting started. Kathy encouraged listeners to use tools like slow cookers, food processors, and blenders to simplify meal preparation, whether they’re creating hearty stews or quick sauces.
Her recommendations for three “must-haves” in the kitchen:
- Blender: Ideal for smoothies, soups, and sauces, with affordable options like NutriBullet or Ninja for budget-conscious buyers.
- Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: Choose based on your schedule—Instant Pots are great for quick meals, while slow cookers excel for hands-off cooking.
- Food Processor: Perfect for shredding, slicing, and creating recipes like scalloped potatoes or shredded Brussels sprouts.
Creative Recipes for Every Occasion
Kathy’s passion for kitchen creativity shone through as she discussed her love for creating flexible, customizable recipes. From her vegan nacho cheese powder to hearty chili and creamy corn chowder, Kathy shared how simple ingredients and bold spices can transform meals.
She also stressed the importance of making recipes your own, encouraging home cooks to experiment with spices and adapt recipes to their tastes.
The Compassionate Path to Plant-Based Living
Kathy highlighted the diverse motivations for adopting a plant-based lifestyle, from health benefits to ethical and environmental concerns. She acknowledged that everyone’s journey is unique, emphasizing the importance of compassion—toward animals, the environment, and oneself.
Kathy’s Cooking Club and Online Resources
Listeners looking to deepen their plant-based cooking skills can explore Kathy’s extensive resources:
- Websites: HealthySlowCooking.com and PlantBasedInstantPot.com
- Kathy’s Cooking Club: A membership offering live classes, recipe archives, and a supportive community. 
- YouTube Channel: Packed with recipe tutorials and live demonstrations.
Final Thoughts
Kathy’s message to aspiring plant-based cooks is simple: “Enjoy your food and don’t be afraid to experiment.” Her approachable style and practical tips make plant-based cooking less intimidating and more fun.
For anyone eager to explore plant-based cooking, Kathy Hester’s expertise offers an inspiring starting point.
Episode Highlights
[00:00] Introduction.
[02:00] Where the plant-based journey began for Kathy Hester.
[04:45] Kathy authors the first vegan slow cooker cookbook.
[07:00] Vegan vs plant-based.
[09:45] Meet people where they are at.
[13:30] Kathy showcases her favorite kitchen devices.
[17:00] How to stock your kitchen with usable tools.
[26:00] Getting over cooking phobia.
[32:00] Shopping for spices.
[39:00] How to live in harmony in a nonvegan household.
[47:00] Final thoughts.
About Kathy Hester
Kathy Hester is a bestselling vegan cookbook author, celebrated for her ability to make healthy eating accessible, delicious, and inclusive. Known as the “appliance whisperer,” Kathy specializes in plant-based recipes that cater to a variety of dietary needs, including WFPB (Whole Food Plant-Based), SOS (Salt, Oil, Sugar-Free), SOFAS, and oil-free lifestyles.
With a passion for helping others navigate dietary restrictions and allergies, Kathy offers recipe alternatives that ensure everyone can enjoy flavorful meals tailored to their needs. Her engaging online community is a testament to her dedication to connecting with others and sharing her expertise.
As a culinary innovator, Kathy inspires home cooks to explore the possibilities of appliances like Instant Pots, slow cookers, and the Ninja Creami, making plant-based cooking approachable and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, Kathy welcomes you to join her thriving community and discover the joy of plant-based living.
More on Kathy
Blogs (all are vegan!):
https://healthyslowcooking.com
https://plantbasedinstantpot.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KathyHesterVeganRecipes/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathyhestercooks/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/veganslowcooker
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/vegancookingwithkathy
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/kathy_hester/
TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@vegancookingwithkathy
About Kathleen Gage
Kathleen Gage is a multifaceted professional, renowned as the founder of Vegan Visibility. With certifications in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Plant-Based Nutrition from eCornell University, she’s a seasoned business consultant, keynote speaker, and marketing strategist.
Kathleen’s impact extends to hosting the Vegan Visibility Virtual Summit, a niche event supporting vegan and plant-based entrepreneurs with top-tier training from industry experts. Since establishing her business in 1994, she’s navigated economic challenges across various sectors, including high-tech, healthcare, and publishing.
Her influential voice resonates through popular podcasts like “Vegan Visibility” and “Plant Based Eating for Health,” where she advocates for a sustainable, compassionate world and provides guidance to thousands globally. Moreover, as an award-winning speaker and past president of Utah’s National Speakers Association chapter, Kathleen excels in crafting effective marketing strategies.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Kathleen resides in Central Oregon, where she champions animal rescue and enjoys outdoor activities. Her commitment to creating a more compassionate and sustainable world shines through in both her personal and professional pursuits.