Krodi

Born and raised in the “complex, vibrant and honest” city of Berlin, Diana Kronenberg launched plant-based kitchen and private chef service KRODI in 2018.

After a decade working in the packaging technology industry, Diana decided to start living out her passion for vegan cuisine by taking the step into self-employment so she could enjoy the best of both worlds.

We spoke with Diana about her tailored approach to creating recipes for customers, and how she finds joy and passion in every part of her life.

What inspired you to launch KRODI?

I love to take care of others, and what better way to do that than providing comfort food? For me that is my main driver, as well as the creativity behind the food. Everything related to food is my meditation. I’d rather stand several hours in the kitchen than working on a computer.

I love it when people really understand how delicious plant-based food is and that they are not missing out on anything.

KRODI means ‘sweet potato’ in Sanskrit . My uncle taught this old Indian language and, like many of my family, has left a lasting mark on me.

How long have you been vegan and what inspired you to make the transition?

I am vegan now for three years and vegetarian for more than 10. The shift really came due to my nutritional studies which also showed me the health benefits of plant-based food. After learning about all of that, it was a very easy transition for me.

Where do you get your menu inspiration from?

From all over, really. One of the first things I ask my customers and friends is what their favourite fruit and vegetable is, and start to create something specific for them.

Sometimes the coolest dish comes out of a combination of foods that people haven’t thought of before.

I also watch a lot of cooking shows and take a lot of inspiration from them as well, although they are not all vegan.

What's been your biggest challenge running a fully vegan business?

Finding the right customers, as I am not running a restaurant where people specifically go to find a vegan menu. Although Berlin is a hot spot for vegan food, many people are still in a transition and if you only offer vegan food, you are still working in a niche.

What are your thoughts on the current vegan landscape in Berlin & Germany in general?

Berlin is a real paradise. You find so many awesome places here. I am super happy to live here and be able to try a lot of new restaurants. In saying that, you are bound to find more vegan options in bigger cities. I think there is still a long way for the vegan landscape to grow in Germany overall. Not only restaurant-wise, but in canteens, schools, and offices as well. You see it shifting, but it still needs a bit more time.

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Tough question! I would go for asian summer rolls with peanut butter sauce.

Don't forget you can request a menu from KRODI’s on VEGCRAVER!