Have you ever encountered the common misunderstanding that a vegan diet is a concept introduced by the West? Or that, if we are to adopt plant-based diets, we would have to sacrifice parts of our traditions and culture? Well, neither is necessarily true. We hope this series of articles can show you exactly why.

There is no better way to dispel that misconception than by showcasing traditional vegan dishes in our Asian cuisines, expanding the common definition of “vegan diet”, and hooking the world with our favorite Asian plant-based dishes prepared with the staple food of Asia – rice.

Many Asian countries are among the top rice consumers and producers in the world. There’s no doubt that rice production and consumption has played a huge role in shaping lifestyles and cultures across our continent (see Association for Asian Studies).

It’s time to occupy our place in the plant-based food landscape and spotlight the endless possibilities of Asian plant-based rice dishes, both sweet and savory, whether they’re naturally vegan or veganized versions that capture the essence of our beloved cuisine while refraining from animal exploitation.

In this series – “AAA Team’s Favorite Rice Dishes” – we are beyond thrilled to introduce a variety of rice dishes hand-picked by our AAA team members. Each one of us will select their favorite vegan rice dish from their Asian country and present it on our blog. Ready to embark on this mouth-watering journey?

Let’s start with Thailand, a country that hosts the annual Jay Festival or เทศกาลกินเจ, a nation-wide plant-based food event where, for nine days, plant-based food becomes highly accessible and affordable at street food stalls and restaurants.

AAA team member: Aim (she/her), Program and Communications Assistant

Country: Thailand

Name: Khao Niao Piak Lumyai (ข้าวเหนียวเปียกลำไย which roughly translated to Longan sticky rice)

Description: Naturally vegan Thai dessert with coconut milk, sticky rice and longan as the main ingredients. Usually served in a small bowl with a spoon.

*Flesh and skin of longan fruits photo by Zenyrgarden*

“This was my most favorite Thai dessert growing up! I love longan itself as a fruit. They are sweet, refreshing and chewy but also have a crunchy texture. I feel heaven in my mouth every time I taste their sweetness combined with soft and warm sticky rice that contrasts nicely with slightly salty coconut cream. I once described to my parents that “To me, Khao Niao Piak Lumyai is on top of the pyramid of Thai desserts.” Yes, I’m that in love with Khao Niao Piak Lumyai!

I have to say that I’m a fan of all Thai desserts. Lucky for me as a vegan, the vast majority of them are traditionally 100% plant-based with basic local ingredients such as tropical fruits, pandan leaf, coconut milk, rice, edible flowers, etc. This despite egg-based sweets having become popular in the last 300 years, when we were introduced to Portuguese-style desserts.” (read more from austinbushphotography, thairath)