What we’re about
"Creating a kinder, greener community together"
The Austin Vegan Association (AVA) is Austin’s longest-running plant-based community, proudly serving as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit since 1996. Founded as the Vegetarian Network of Austin, later known as the Austin Vegan & Vegetarian Association, today our mission is to make vegan living more accessible through social gatherings, educational events, and support for local vegan-friendly businesses.
AVA is open to anyone interested in compassionate, sustainable lifestyles—join our growing community.
Upcoming events
2
- $10.00
Vegan Persian Cooking Demonstration
Wheatsville Food Coop, 4001 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX, USNahid Gashemi will be our cook for the evening.
💛 These dishes encompass Persian culture, rich history, and love of cooking. Learn to prepare these authentic dishes. Sample-sized servings for everyone!
Suggested Donation: $10 (to help cover ingredients costs.)
Pay in advance here, or you can also pay at the door.
The menu includes:
Plain Steamed Rice - Fluffy rice is the heart of Persian meals, representing warmth and togetherness. It is always served with stews to create balance and harmony on the table.
Gheimeh Stew - Gheimeh is one of the most loved Iranian stews, made with split peas and dried lime for a unique Persian aroma. This vegan version uses Beyond plant-based meatballs to honor tradition with compassion.
Vegan Eggplant & “Chicken” Stew - A classic stew from southern Iran, rich with saffron and garlic aroma. Fire-roasting eggplant and tomatoes give this dish its signature smoky depth and cultural identity.
Dasi - A nourishing lentil soup traditionally served as a mindful, grounding appetizer in Iran, especially in cold weather. It reflects simplicity with rich, comforting flavor.
Kermani Salad - A refreshing citrus-based side salad from Kerman, my hometown. In Iran, salad is served beside almost every meal to add freshness and balance to each bite.5 attendees
Past events
513
Group links
Organizers
Members
4,030
