On a recent episode of the Kitchen Confidante podcast, I spoke with Hannah Sunderani, the creator behind the Two Spoons blog. Hannah develops approachable plant-based recipes aimed at new cooks, people who aren’t sure about vegetables, and seasoned vegan food lovers alike. A Toronto native, Hannah spent four years living in France, an experience that inspired her debut cookbook, The Two Spoons Cookbook. Published in May 2022, the book features more than 100 French-inspired vegan recipes that emphasize simple techniques, seasonal produce, and the pleasure of sharing food.
In our conversation, Hannah described her path to plant-based eating, how she adapted to life in France as a vegan, and the ways French food culture shaped her cooking and her cookbook. She talked about the practical steps she took to improve her digestion and overall health, how she documents recipes and meals on Two Spoons, and the menu-driven approach she used when assembling the cookbook. Below are some highlights from that discussion.
What led you to plant-based eating?
Hannah’s move toward plant-based eating began in university, when persistent, severe stomach problems disrupted her daily life. After seeing specialists and being diagnosed with IBS, she was told medication would be a long-term solution. Rather than accept that prognosis, she explored food as medicine and began an elimination diet, avoiding gluten, dairy, refined sugar, and caffeine. The diet radically improved her symptoms and led her to investigate plant-based cooking more deeply.
At the time, plant-based and gluten-free approaches were less mainstream, so Hannah spent considerable time researching ingredients and techniques that worked for her. This trial-and-error period introduced her to a wide range of plant foods and preparations, reshaping the way she ate and ultimately improving her health and energy. Her experience underscores how dietary changes tailored to individual needs can transform well-being.
Tell us more about starting your brand, Two Spoons
A few years later, Hannah relocated to France for her husband’s work. Although she hadn’t been strictly plant-based at the time—she allowed flexibility around family and social events—living in France became an opportunity to commit to a fully plant-based diet. This choice might seem surprising in a country famous for cheese, butter, and charcuterie, yet it opened new culinary possibilities.
Hannah found that while restaurant staff were sometimes puzzled by vegan requests, the abundance of daily farmers’ markets made it easy to experiment with fresh produce. She began documenting her meals and testing recipes, which led to the creation of Two Spoons. The blog was born from a desire to capture the joy and creativity she discovered while cooking in France and to share recipes that prioritize flavor and simplicity.
The name Two Spoons reflects that ethos: it evokes the shared experience of enjoying a dish with someone else. Just as a server brings two spoons when a dessert is meant to be shared, Hannah’s recipes are designed to be immediately appealing and ready to share—without sacrificing taste or texture.
What is the inspiration behind The Two Spoons Cookbook?
The Two Spoons Cookbook was conceived as a way to bring the French approach to food—where meals are experiences to be savored—into the kitchens of plant-based home cooks. Hannah wanted the book to capture moments both big and small: a leisurely coffee at a café, a simple picnic in the park, or a celebratory dinner with friends. To achieve this, she organized recipes into thoughtful menu pairings that make planning easier and elevate everyday meals into memorable moments.
Featuring over 100 recipes, the cookbook balances accessibility and authenticity. Hannah focuses on techniques that make plant-based French-inspired dishes approachable: working with seasonal vegetables, building layers of flavor, and assembling balanced plates. The recipes aim to be reliable for busy cooks while offering the subtle elegance often associated with French cuisine.
The Two Spoons Cookbook: More Than 100 French-Inspired Vegan Recipes, by Hannah Sunderani (Penguin Canada, 2022).
Learn more
To hear the full conversation and get more context on Hannah’s story and recipes, listen to the full podcast episode. Explore the Two Spoons blog for recipe ideas, seasonal menus, and approachable vegan recipes that reflect Hannah’s time in France and her belief that plant-based food can be both comforting and elegant.
Mentions and Related posts
Blueberry Muffin Overnight Oats
Vegan Ceviche
Vegan and Healthy Buddha Bowl
How to Make Easy Chia Pudding
Coconut Chia Pudding
Overnight Refrigerator Oatmeal