Hello! I’m Gustavo De Obaldia—the passionate recipe creator, cook, and writer at Our Plant-Based World, Nómadas Gourmet (our Vegan Spanish Blog), and Nomads Picks (our recently launched Travel Blog). My husband, Joaquin, and I celebrate the plant-based lifestyle with every click and keystroke.
Rooted in Diversity
Born in Panama and cradled in a mix of Spanish and Panamanian cultures, I was immersed in a blend of Latino and Mediterranean flavors, which sparked my passion for innovating ingredient combinations and veganizing comfort food staples.
During my corporate career, I had an opportunity to travel the world and explore the global mosaic of cuisines. My gourmet curiosity first simmered alongside my mother and grandmother in my family's kitchen. Later, my travels continued enriching my palate, exposing me to diverse culinary traditions.
Nutrition's Call and My Vegan Journey
My journey has been deeply personal, from weight management as a young swimmer to pioneering nutritional explorations.
Embracing veganism was less about sacrifice and more about discovery. My formal culinary education took root in Mexico and Argentina, branching out into informal studies in Italy, each experience layering complexity and passion onto my plate.
In 2016, I transitioned to a plant-based lifestyle, firmly believing in its ability to improve health, reduce the impact of climate change, and contribute to the ethical treatment of other sentient beings.
Educational Path
My professional pivot from tech, as a Computer Science Engineer, to diabetes healthcare with Lifescan, before the Diabetes Unit in Johnson & Johnson, was my gateway to the transformative power of plant-based nutrition.
Armed with a Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from Cornell University and formal culinary education in Argentina (at Instituto Gato Dumas) and Mexico (at Colegio Superior de GastronomÃa), as well as experience in the healthcare industry, I’m dedicated to challenging and reshaping perceptions of vegan meals.
My life in Mexico, Argentina, and Italy, my current residency in Spain, and numerous cooking courses worldwide contributed to my expertise in global cuisines.
My family's legacy profoundly influences my culinary journey. My grandmother thrived until she was 103 on a primarily vegetarian diet, and my mother, a kitchen wizard, inspired my profound respect for the transformative power of food.
Our Plant-Based Commitment
Our Plant-Based World was launched in 2020, followed by Nómadas Gourmet in 2022—a vegan blog crafted for Spanish-speaking readers. These are my creative platforms where a health-conscious approach meets culinary enthusiasm, shaping a narrative of planet-friendly and mindful eating practices.
Every dish at Our Plant-Based World reflects my unwavering commitment. I wear multiple hats: the chef, the culinary explorer, and the master of healthy recipe transformations for each creation.
My recipes perfectly balance wholesomeness and heartiness, always prioritizing taste and health.
I have a soft spot for transforming traditional favorites into vegan delights: even the most indulgent classics get a plant-based makeover in my kitchen!
My culinary approach has been shaped by my family’s home-cooked meals, progressive views on nutrition, and their dedication to growing produce for personal consumption. I love experimenting with vegan cooking styles: oil-free, whole-food, plant-based dishes, gluten-free recipes, and crafting exquisite vegan cheeses and sweets for a special treat.
My mission is to stir up your enthusiasm for plant-based cooking! I want you to feel at home in your kitchen while cooking delicious vegan meals confidently and joyfully.
Here's What to Expect in Our Plant-Based World:
- Each recipe is plant-based, mostly focusing on whole, unprocessed ingredients. Of course, we all deserve a treat occasionally, so you'll find some indulgent recipes too!
- Most recipes are gluten-free or can be easily adapted with a simple swap for a gluten-free alternative.
- I provide oil-free or gluten-free variations with tips on brands and substitutions wherever possible. You can find those in popular categories on the blog if you want to adhere to those dietary preferences.
Even though I don't strictly adhere to an oil-free WFPB diet, I know its benefits. Thus, I frequently incorporate these guidelines into my recipes, ensuring they align with the dish's flavor profile without diminishing its taste.
Remember, everyone's nutritional journey is unique. It's all about finding what resonates with your body and taste buds. Dive into my food philosophy on the blog and join me in celebrating the wonders of plant-based cooking!
Media Presence
My voice and vision have echoed through media outlets like El Mundo and TV Malaga, championing the richness of a plant-based life.
Favorites to Share
Let's start a flavorful exploration with my most treasured recipes:
- The craft of Vegan Empanada Dough
- The zest of Pineapple Cucumber Juice
- The depth of Vegan Bolognese
- The spice of Indian Eggplant Curry
Beyond the Kitchen
A scholar at heart, with 'Gastrophysics' as a guiding star, I balance my epicurean quests with the grounding practices of running, weight training, practicing yoga, and open water swimming in beautiful Málaga.
Connect and Collaborate
Whether you’re seeking culinary inspiration or a partnership, I'm just an email away. Connect at gustavo@ourplantbasedworld.com or join my professional circle on LinkedIn.
About Our Plant-Based World
Welcome to Our Plant-Based World, your go-to source for global-inspired, quick, easy, and affordable vegan food. Our mission is to deliver recipes that are so simple, nourishing, and delicious that they’ll have the potential to become staples in your kitchen.