8Shades, Author at 8Shades https://www.8shades.com/author/8shades-team/ Make the world one shade greener Tue, 28 Jun 2022 05:46:29 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 https://www.8shades.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/cropped-8shades_favicon_512x512-32x32.png 8Shades, Author at 8Shades https://www.8shades.com/author/8shades-team/ 32 32 199104719 3 Easy & Delicious Vegan Recipes For Summer from A Spark Of Madness https://www.8shades.com/a-spark-of-madness-vegan-recipes/ Thu, 14 Jul 2022 17:23:00 +0000 https://www.8shades.com/?p=13854 Try your hand at these 3 easy and delicious vegan recipes from Asian vegetarian cookbook, A Spark Of Madness.

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Fancy introducing a spark of madness to your kitchen? Homegrown chef Simran Savlani is the creator of A Spark Of Madness – a vegetarian Asian cookbook, filled with mouth-watering recipes that take inspiration from cuisines across the region.

Even better, Simran has also cooked up a range of ready-to-go vegan Spark Sauces as an extension to the cookbook, all handmade in Hong Kong, that deliver delicious shortcuts for full-on flavour.

Source: A Spark Of Madness

We asked Simran to share three of her favourite, easy, vegan and plant-based recipes from A Spark Of Madness, exclusively for 8Shaders and ideal for summer – enjoy!

See also: 8 Instagrammers To Follow For Delicious Plant-Based Recipes


Sheet-Pan Baked Peanut Tofu

This vegan dish is perfect for easy weeknight dinners, as all the ingredients can be tossed together and baked on a sheet-pan, while you enjoy a glass of vino. It’s a wholesome meal with a mix of proteins and vegetables and can be enjoyed on its own or with some rice.

Source: A Spark Of Madness

Serves: 2

Cooking time: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS

  • 250g extra firm tofu
  • 1 red bell pepper, de-seeded and diced (180g)
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, de-seeded and diced (180g)
  • 1 onion, diced (200g)
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ cup Spark Crack Sauce

Garnish:

  • Spring onion, finely chopped (green stalks only)
  • Roasted peanuts, crushed

METHOD

1. Cut the tofu into cubes; try and make the tofu, onion and bell peppers all roughly the same size.

2. Preheat the oven to 220°C/430°F and prepare a greased baking tray.

3. Toss the tofu, bell peppers and onion with oil and salt; spread them on the baking tray and bake for 10 minutes.

4. Mix the Spark Crack Sauce with 2 tablespoons of water; remove the tray and pour ¾ of the sauce onto the tofu and vegetables. Give everything a good toss and bake for another 15 minutes.

5. Check to see if the tofu and vegetables have roasted to golden brown, then remove the tray from the oven; otherwise, bake for a few more minutes.

6. Lastly, drizzle the remaining (¼ cup) Spark Crack sauce on the sheet-pan and garnish with spring onion and crushed roasted peanuts.


Quick Sesame Noodles

We all have those nights where we want to have dinner in front of the TV by ourselves and enjoy some quality me time. This plant-based noodle dish is perfect for that – rice vermicelli tossed in a delicious sesame, ginger and Spark Caramelized Spring Onion sauce, along with some charred greens.

This dish can be eaten at any temperature – and if you want to turn up the spice levels of the dish, try adding some Spark Crispy Chilli Oil to the sauce too!

Source: A Spark Of Madness

Serves: 1

Cooking time: 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

  • 100g rice vermicelli
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • ½ head broccoli, torn in florets (125g)
  • 100g haricot verts/green beans/thin asparagus, trimmed and halved
  • Pinch of salt

Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp Spark Caramelized Spring Onion
  • 1 tbsp tahini & 1 tbsp hot water
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp white sesame seeds
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
  • ½ tsp white pepper, crushed
  • ½ tsp salt

Garnish:

  • Spring onion, finely chopped (green stalks only)
  • White sesame seeds, roasted

METHOD

1. Soak the rice vermicelli in a bowl of lukewarm water for 2 minutes. Then, rinse with running cold water, cut in half with food scissors and set aside.

2. Place a wok on high heat, let it smoke and then add the sesame oil, broccoli and haricot verts. Let the green vegetables roast for 4-5 minutes, mixing at regular intervals so all sides roast evenly; then, sprinkle on a pinch of salt.

3. For the sauce, mix all the ingredients in a small bowl.

4. Next, add the vermicelli to the wok along with the sauce and give it a toss; let it cook until all the sauce is incorporated. Remove from the heat and sprinkle spring onion and sesame seeds on top – and serve!

#Spark Tip: To make crispy and charred greens (such as broccoli, haricot verts or asparagus), first flash-fry the greens for 4-5 minutes in a wok and let them roast. Then, add 2 tablespoons of water, cover the wok and let it steam, before adding a pinch of salt at the end.


Vegan Carrot Bread

The main difference between a carrot cake and carrot bread is that a cake is typically lighter, sweeter and moister, whereas this bread is denser and grainy. Also, a bread just feels guilt-free, especially when you eat a slice every day… or even more!

Source: A Spark Of Madness

I’ve added oats to this vegan recipe to increase its fibre content along with garam masala, a staple spice mix in Indian kitchens. It has a kick that balances the sweetness of carrots and adds an earthy note to the bread.

Garam masala usually consists of a variety of different spices such as mace, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, cinnamon and cardamom, but every spice merchant makes their own blend with slight variations.

Makes: 1 medium (8-9 inch) bread

Cooking time: 75 minutes

INGREDIENTS

  • 1½ cup whole-wheat flour
  • ½ cup rolled or instant oats
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp cinnamon powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • Pinch of salt
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup honey
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil
  • 2 tbsp oat or almond milk
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • 1 tsp vanilla essence
  • 3 carrots, peeled and grated (240g)

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/355°F and grease an 8-9 inch Bundt cake tin or any medium-sized cake tin.

2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients – whole-wheat flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, garam masala and salt.

3. In a medium-sized bowl, use an electric hand mixer to whisk the wet ingredients (brown sugar, honey, oil, oat milk, white vinegar and vanilla essence) together, until the mixture is creamy.

4. Use a spoon to gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients bowl, avoiding overmixing; then, fold in the grated carrots. Pour the batter into the greased cake tin.

5. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean, and then remove from the oven and cool for 15 minutes before slicing.

#Spark Tip: The easiest way to create an even top for your bread is to gently tap the cake tin against the kitchen countertop, then put it in the oven to bake.

Source: A Spark Of Madness

Find out more about A Spark Of Madness on their website and Instagram


See also: 8 Plant-Based Snacks To Make This Summer

Sign up for the 8Shades weekly newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox!

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Good News: 3D Printed Corals Could Help Regrow Bleached Reefs https://www.8shades.com/good-news-3d-printed-corals-israel/ Mon, 06 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.8shades.com/?p=13097 Good news! To help regrow bleached reefs, researchers in Israel have developed a method of 3D printing corals that mimic actual coral reefs.

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Known as the ‘rainforests of the sea’, coral reefs are vital to the health of our oceans and all marine life – from the smallest organisms to larger fish species.

To help regrow bleached reefs – a phenomenon that takes place when corals get stressed and lose their vibrant colours due to environmental changes – researchers in Israel have developed a method of 3D printing corals that are modelled after actual coral reefs in the ocean.

Source: Unsplash.com

“We use terracotta clay that becomes ceramic when you fire it in the kiln,” says Natalie Levy, a PhD candidate at the Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences at Bar-Ilan University. “Once it’s fired in the kiln it maintains its porosity, which is very important for an underwater structure, and then it has similar properties to the actual coral skeleton.”

So far, the reefs have been deployed in the Gulf of Eilat in the Red Sea and there are plans to roll it out in multiple regions such as Colombia, Panama, Brazil or Hawaii, with the hope that corals and other reef-building creatures will start to grow on the structure and help rebuild the reef.

“The idea is to have a massive coral reef restoration project using our structures for wherever people need to add to reefs, to allow corals to settle and to grow,” adds Levy.

Learn more about the 3D printed coral reefs at Science Focus


Sign up for the 8Shades weekly newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox!

See also: Good News: Treehouse Opens in Quarry Bay

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8Shades x Cerqular: 8 Things To Buy With Our Exclusive Discount! https://www.8shades.com/8shades-cerqular-8-things-to-buy/ Tue, 26 Apr 2022 15:19:41 +0000 https://www.8shades.com/?p=11791 Cerqular is a new online marketplace with all things sustainable – here are eight things we are definitely adding to cart!

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ICYMI, Cerqular is an LA-based e-commerce startup that’s created an amazing online marketplace solely dedicated to eco-friendly goods. Stocked with everything from fashion and beauty to home, tech and even pet goods, Cerqular is on a mission to make sustainable shopping more affordable and accessible for all.

From now until May 31, 2022, Cerqular is giving us 8Shaders an exclusive discount of 20% off everything on the marketplace! Simply use the code ‘8SHADES20‘ at checkout and start shopping here!

Need some ideas? Here are some things on Cerqular that we currently have our eyes on:


Alohas Knockout Dress Black

Source: Cerqular

With a high-neck and a stringy side-pit for a sultry silhouette, Knockout is the belle of the ball. Made of a stretchy cotton-elastane blend, it’s fashionable without compromising on comfort.

Shop now on Cerqular


KIBO Recycled Leather #Guiltfreekicks

Source: Cerqular

These super-versatile eco-friendly sneakers by KIBO are made with recycled leather, post-consumer plastics and natural materials, making them #GuiltFreeKicks that are designed to stay in your wardrobe for years to come.

Shop now on Cerqular

See also: 8Shades Of… Natalie Chow of KIBO


Tove & Libra Convertible Crop Pant in Sage

Source: Cerqular

Cool, comfortable, convertible – Tove & Libra‘s convertible crop pants tick all the boxes for effortless, trans-seasonal style. With a wide and relaxed fit, these trousers have clever snaps at the hem that easily transform the pant into a tapered silhouette.

Shop now on Cerqular

See also: 8Shades Of… Christine Chow & Ivan Tang of Tove & Libra


Panaros Clothing Clarence Maxi Dress

Source: Cerqular

The floral Clarence maxi dress is made from 100% eco-friendly fabrics and will become your new year-round staple for an effortless, feminine look. Featuring a ruffled neckline and feminine details, pair her with a cozy sweater and boots when it’s chilly, or slip her on with some sandals on warmer days.

Shop now on Cerqular


Kadalys Skincare Organic Banana Lip Balm

Source: Cerqular

Go bananas over this nourishing natural lip balm, which is perfect for relieving chapped lips and dry patches. Featuring Kadalys’s patented, omega-rich yellow banana bio-active to smooth and firm, it also has a blend of plant oils (including jojoba, mimosa, and castor) to seal in long-lasting hydration. 

Shop now on Cerqular


Laagam Liza Dress

Source: Cerqular

Handmade in Barcelona, one-by-one and on-demand, this dress from Laagam features an allover flowal print with a cute puffed sleeve with slits. The short skirt elongates your legs while the open back is finished with a feminine tie.

Shop now on Cerqular


BEEN London Cecilia Crossbody

Meet Cecilia, BEEN London‘s perfectly petite and versatile crossbody handcrafted in London from luxury full-grain recycled leather. Thanks to its accordion structured shape, Cecilia can hold your phone, keys and everything else you need to take you from day to night.

Shop now on Cerqular

See also: BEEN London’s Founder On Ethical Handbags & Living Sustainably


Oakywood 3 In 1 Wooden Charger Triple Dock

This 3-in-1 charging dock from Oakywood is made of solid wood and hand-finished with ecological oils for a smooth and natural addition to your desk. It’s super easy to use, even with one hand, thanks to the micro-suction tape technology and cable locking system.

Shop now on Cerqular


EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR 8SHADERS

Cerqular is happy to offer 8Shades readers an exclusive discount of 20% off everything on the marketplace from now until 31 May 2022.

Simply use the code ‘8SHADES20‘ at checkout and start shopping here!


See also: 8 Fun & Flirty Sustainable Dresses For Spring

Sign up for the 8Shades weekly newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox!

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Good News: Arnold Schwarzenegger Vows To ‘Terminate Pollution’ https://www.8shades.com/arnold-schwarzenegger-terminate-pollution/ Mon, 28 Mar 2022 09:33:14 +0000 https://www.8shades.com/?p=10963 Ahead of the sixth annual Austrian World Summit this summer, which takes place in Vienna on 14 June 2022, Arnold Schwarzenegger has made a commitment to "terminate pollution."

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Ahead of the sixth annual Austrian World Summit this summer, which takes place in Vienna on 14 June 2022, Arnold Schwarzenegger has made a commitment to “terminate pollution.”

Source: The Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative

The summit is organised by the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative and is an important environmental networking event that connects key decision makers from the corporate world to NGOs and government bodies to collaborate on sustainable projects.

First launched by Schwarzenegger and Austrian ecologist Monika Langthaler in 2017, the Austrian World Summit aims to fully implement the aims of the Paris Agreement, with previous speakers including climate activist Greta Thunberg.

Watch Schwarzenegger’s video message below:

These days, people are suffering from climate anxiety more than ever thanks to the pandemic, but the Terminator star has an uplifting message for us all.

Source: The Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative

“At this year’s summit, we will learn from the past, but not dwell on it. Instead of doom and gloom, we will show the world that change is possible.”

He continues, “Together, we can terminate pollution and stop climate change.”

Learn more about the Austrian World Summit


See also: Good News: Humpback Whales No Longer Endangered

Sign up for the 8Shades weekly newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox!

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Taking Care of Yourself & Others During The Pandemic https://www.8shades.com/mental-health-resources-hong-kong-charities/ Wed, 23 Feb 2022 04:09:33 +0000 https://www.8shades.com/?p=9711 Feeling anxious about the ongoing restrictions? Here are some mental health resources in Hong Kong that can help with stress and anxiety – and charities to reach out to and support.

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Whether you’re feeling the effects of climate anxiety, the ongoing restrictions in Hong Kong, or just the general stress of everything that’s happening right now in the world, there’s no need to go through it alone.

Here at 8Shades, we’re just as much about mental health and wellness as we are about sustainability. After all, how can we take care of the planet if we’re not taking care of ourselves? If you find yourself feeling blue, here are some mental health resources in Hong Kong that can help with stress and anxiety – and ways for you to reach out and help others:


Mind HK

At least one in seven people in Hong Kong will experience a mental health problem, according to Mind HK, a registered charity in Hong Kong that’s working to fight the stigma against this very important issue.

Besides running public campaigns and events, they’ve created a free Covid-19 Mental Health Self Help Guide along with other Mind HK for more resources on managing your mental health during these trying times, including virus outbreaks and quarantine.

Learn more at mind.org.hk


Sonia Somtani at All About You

Founded by renowned hypnotherapist, Sonia Somtani, All About You is a wellness centre in Sheung Wan that specialises in all things mental health. Using a range of techniques including hypnotherapy, energy healing, counselling, coaching, trauma release exercises and even tarot card reading, people are able to come into a safe space to discuss their innermost thoughts and feelings.

Learn more at allaboutyoucentre.com


RED DOOR Counselling

RED DOOR Counselling is offering free anxiety workshops and counselling for people who are experiencing stress due to the current COVID pandemic. Held over Zoom on Tuesday mornings and Thursday evenings, the workshops begin on Thursday, 17 February 2022 and are open to Hong Kong-based adults.

Interested parties can contact Angela via Whatsapp on 93785428 or emailing angelaw@reddoor.hk.


Talking Mental podcast

Founded by Aaron Stadlin-Robbie, TALKING MENTAL is a platform and podcast that deals with all things mental health, from sleep to sugar and of course, the COVID pandemic. A long-term sufferer of anxiety and panic attacks himself, Aaron speaks frankly on the podcast with specialists and fellow sufferers in an attempt to figure out the whats, whys and ways to help himself and others.

Learn more at talkingmental.com


Common Care Central

Common Care was created with a mission “to normalise mental health and increase access to mental healthcare” in Hong Kong. Besides posting tips on their Instagram account, Common Care also has have plenty of bilingual resources on their community resource hub, while providing online therapy and counselling at affordable prices.

Learn more at commoncarecentral.com


Giving Back

Besides taking care of ourselves right now, we’d also like to highlight some of the communities in Hong Kong that are in need of support, especially during these tough times:

Feeding HK

With rising food prices, help provide food for underprivileged individuals and families in Hong Kong.

Donate to support Feeding HK


Refugee Union

Support refugees in Hong Kong with food, clothing and other household items.

Donate to support Refugee Union


Impact HK

Help the homeless population in Hong Kong by supporting Impact HK’s shelters and kindness centres.

Donate to support Impact HK


HELP for Domestic Workers

Help domestic workers in Hong Kong to provide emergency support services.

Donate to HELP for Domestic Workers


Know of an organisation that should be on this list? Email us to get in touch!

Sign up for the 8Shades weekly newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox!

See also: 8Shades’ Guide To A Greener Lockdown

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Introducing 8Shades’ Sustainable Gift Hampers https://www.8shades.com/sustainable-gift-hampers-everyone-him-her/ Sat, 01 Jan 2022 05:27:00 +0000 http://www.8shades.com/?p=5682 Our 8Shades sustainability gift hampers are packed with everyday essentials and luxurious add-ons for green newbies and advocates alike!

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Looking for sustainable gift ideas in Hong Kong? You’re in luck, because we’ve launched a brand new collection of sustainable gift hampers.

Designed for sustainability newbies and advocates alike, each 8Shades sustainable gift hamper contains a total of eight chic and stylish essentials that will help kickstart or fuel one’s sustainability journey.

From everyday essentials such as coffee mugs and reusable cotton pads to luxurious add-ons such as silk sleeping masks, scented candles and bath salts, there’s literally something for everyone.

Scroll down to start browsing our sustainable gift hampers and click ‘Buy Now’ to place your orders today:


8Shades Sustainable Gift Hamper For Everyone

The Sustainable Gift Hamper for Everyone includes:

  • 8Shades x STTOKE Lite Classics Stainless Steel Cup (12 oz)
  • 8Shades x Casetify Water Bottle (550 ml)
  • Stashr Reusable Silicon Sandwich Bag (450 ml)
  • Innotier SXM99 Mask (Pewter Adult Size)
  • Bamboo Ear Swabs
  • Bamboo Eco Toothbrush (Mint)
  • Reusable Cotton Pads
  • Collapsible Food Storage Box (800 ml)
  • Biodynamic Wine (750ml)

8Shades Sustainable Gift Hamper For Her

The Sustainable Gift Hamper For Her includes:

  • 8Shades x STTOKE Lite Classics Stainless Steel Cup (12 oz)
  • 8Shades x BeCandle Custom-blended Candle (200 ml)
  • Coconut Matter FIRE Coconut Oil Soap Scrub (100 g)
  • Sol Eye Mask (Evening Blue)
  • Bamboo Eco Toothbrush (Mint)
  • Jade Gua Sha Tool (Green)
  • Reusable Cotton Pads
  • Bath Salt (450 ml)

8Shades Sustainable Gift Hamper For Him

The Sustainable Gift Hamper For Him includes:

  • 8Shades x STTOKE Lite Classics Stainless Steel Cup (12 oz)
  • Stashr Reusable Silicon Sandwich Bag (450 ml)
  • Coconut Matter Wood Coconut Oil Soap – Eucalyptus Lemon (100 g)
  • Bamboo Eco Toothbrush (Black)
  • Microfibre Towel (30 cm x 80 cm)
  • Innotier SXM99 Mask (True Black Adult Size)
  • Collapsible Food Storage Box (800 ml)
  • Heroes Beer Co (4 cans)

Learn more about our brand new 8Shades Hampers and place your orders here!

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8Shades’ Top Stories of 2021 https://www.8shades.com/8shades-top-stories-of-2021/ Wed, 29 Dec 2021 01:00:00 +0000 http://www.8shades.com/?p=7137 As 2021 comes to a close, let's take a look back at our top stories of the year!

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Since launching 8Shades at the start of 2021, we’ve been bringing you stories that make sustainability chic, relevant and fun, and we couldn’t be happier to have you with us in our growing community of ‘8Shaders’! We’ve always been about celebrating every green step – big and small – and we promise to continue to bring you more inspirational and empowering stories about sustainability in the new year.

As 2021 comes to a close, let’s take a look back at our top stories of the year:


1. 8Shades’ 8-week Challenge

Our inaugural 8Shades 8-week challenge launched to great fanfare, with eight weeks of exciting challenges and giveaways from our generous sponsors. Stay tuned for more green challenges coming your way in 2022!


2. Introducing 8Shades’ Sustainable Gift Hampers

You guys also responded to the launch of our sustainable gift hampers, just in time for the holidays! Curated for him, her and everyone, check out the 8Shades Shop for more great sustainability essentials.



3. Hong Kong’s Plant-based Personalities On Why They Went Veggie

For World Vegan Day (and Month), we checked in with Hong Kong’s plant-based pioneers on what prompted them to first go veggie.


4. The Best Vegan Cakes in Hong Kong

Not only was our round-up on vegan cookies popular, so were our listicles on vegan cakes and afternoon tea sets in Hong Kong.


5. 8Shades Of… Wesley Ng, Co-founder & CEO of Casetify

Our ‘8Shades Of’ interview series proved to be popular as well, including our chat with the CEO of CASETiFY, Wesley Ng.

Read more of our ‘8Shades Of’ interviews


6. 8Shades’ Top 5 Natural, Reef-safe Sunscreens

Another popular topic – reef-safe sunscreens were highly sought after, especially during Hong Kong’s summer months.

See also: How to… have a sustainable boat trip


7. 8Shades’ Guide To A Sustainable Hotel Quarantine

With quarantine being the hot topic of 2021, it’s no surprise that our guide to a sustainable quarantine was one of our top stories.


8. 8 Things You Should Never Recycle

Besides sorting your recycling into the right containers, there are also things you should never recycle – find out what they are.


That’s a wrap for 2021! Thank you again for your support and if there’s anything you’d like to see on 8Shade in the new year, don’t hesitate to send us a DM on Instagram (@8shadesofficial) or email us at hello@8shades.com. Happy New Year!


Sign up for the 8Shades weekly newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox!

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The Best Vegan and Plant-based Christmas Feasts in Hong Kong https://www.8shades.com/best-vegan-plant-based-christmas-feasts-hong-kong/ Tue, 21 Dec 2021 06:36:36 +0000 http://www.8shades.com/?p=6770 Continue your plant-based journey this Christmas at Hong Kong’s favourite vegan/vegetarian restaurants.

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(Co-written by Emilie Yabut-Razon & Claudia Lee)

Whether you’re creating some new traditions this holiday season or continuing on your plant-based journey, these Christmas feasts on offer by Hong Kong’s favourite vegan/vegetarian restaurants will certainly leave you in a festive mood:

See also: The Best Vegan Cookies In Hong Kong


Ma… and the Seeds of Life

Source: Ma… and the Seeds of Life

For its Christmas Menu, Ma… and the Seeds of Life’s Chef Tina Barrat presents several decadently inventive French vegan dishes, including Lobster “Mane” Bisque, made from Lion’s Mane mushroom, carrot and celery; Pan-fried Faux Gras (porcini mushroom and cashews) folded into hearty risotto with morels and truffle, and King Oyster Scallop truffle cauliflower mash, topped with white chaviar (made from chia seeds) and champagne foam.

For dessert, enjoy a chocolate log with orange cream and strawberry snowman, and finish off the meal with coffee and tea. (HK$480) A special Christmas and New Year Menu, which includes Roasted Stuffing (no bird here!), a cheese plate and a glass of non-alco sparkling wine is available from 21 December from 2 January, 2022 (HK$880).

Ma…and the Seeds of Life, Shop 11, 1/F, H18 CONET, 23 Graham Street, Central, +852 6469 4533 or +852 3165 1717


Veda

Source: Veda

Newly reopened, Veda offers a Festive Menu that is packed with rich flavours, guaranteed to keep you feeling the Christmas spirit. The set includes a hearty sweet potato soup, roasted butternut squash with yogurt sauce and pine nuts, vegetarian wellington from spinach, paneer and beetroot with a port wine reduction, and bourguignon of mushroom and Brussels sprouts with mashed Jerusalem artichokes. Finish off the meal with apple crumble and salted vanilla ice cream. (HK$470) The restaurant is also offering 20% off on its Champagne Brunch on Boxing Day.

Veda, Ovolo Central, 2 Arbuthnot Road, Central, Hong Kong / 37553000


Miss Lee

Source: Miss Lee

Recreating our favourite Cantonese dishes into healthier, even tastier vegetarian options is Miss Lee. The restaurant’s six-course Festive Dinner Menu, available on 24 to 26 December, and 31 December and 1 January includes exclusive seasonal dishes such as soul-warming Chencun Flat Rice Noodle Rolls, Watercress Gnocchi and Handmade Noodles with Honshimeji Mushroom, with Walnut Puff with Vanilla Ice cream for dessert.

The best part? Miss Lee offers gluten-free, allium-free and vegan alternatives. A four-course lunch and seven-course dinner ($598) are also available throughout the holiday season. 

Miss Lee, G/F The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Sheung Wan, +852 2881 1811 or reserve online


Soil to Soul

Source: Soil to Soul

For a taste of Korea, visit Soil to Soul at K11 Musea. Led by Korean chef Gu Jin Kwang, dishes hail from Buddhist culinary traditions, and the selection of simple yet superb-quality ingredients. The restaurant is offering a seven-course Festive Tasting Menu for lunch and a nine-course dinner from 13 December to 9 January which includes Korean Ginseng & Chestnut Soup, Jae Chae Rolls and Veggie Bibimbap. Prices start at $568 per person, with wine pairing options. 

Soil to Soul has also reimagined the traditional poon choi, with a colourful and tasteful combination of tofu skin pockets, zucchini noodles, Korean rice cakes, radish dumplings and more, available for takeaway from 18 December to 15 February in servings good for 4 ($888) and 8 ($1,688). Please order a week in advance. 

Soil to Soul, Shop 704, 7/F, Victoria Dockside K11 Musea, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, +852 2389 9588


Chaiwala

Source: Chaiwala

For those looking for an Indian inspired Christmas meal, Chaiwala is offering an Indian Themed Festive Brunch and a Christmas Eve Dinner tasting menu with vegetarian options. Start the festivities off right with signature Chaats and Indian snacks and end with flavourful spiced desserts.  The sharing plates are especially suitable for a season like Christmas, although you might to keep your Aloo Tikki Chaat or Saffron Ice Cream to yourself after you’ve had a bite.   

Price: Festive Brunch is HK$398 per person; Christmas Eve Dinner is HK$498 per person

Chaiwala, Basement, 43, 55 Wyndham St, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2362 8988


Ask for Alonzo

Source: Ask for Alonzo

Mushroom loving 8Shaders will appreciate Ask for Alonzo’s Festive Vegetarian Menu. Both their starter (Chestnut and Mushroom Soup) and mid-course (Porcini Mushroom Ravioli with Truffle Cream sauce) are inspired by the earthy mushroom. Their panettone mousse is a unique twist on the staple Christmas bread, it’s the first time we’ve seen this on a Christmas menu and we are so curious to try.

Price: HK$248 per person for vegetarian lunch or dinner

Ask for Alonzo, multiple locations


POP Vegan

Source: POP Vegan

POP Vegan’s six-course Christmas meal is curated for those who want a traditional Christmas feast. Inspired by Christmas crowd favourites like Pork Belly and Christmas Pudding, POP Vegans’ team created dishes like faux Pork Belly with Roast Lemonade’s New Potatoes and vegan Christmas pudding. Using seasonal produce, the team also conjured a hearty Parsnip, Chestnut and Apple Soup that will delight any platter. 

Price: The six-course Christmas lunch or dinner is priced at HK$999 for two

POP Vegan, 1/F, 28 Elgin Street, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2628 6211


Salisterra, The Upper House

Source: Salisterra

Salisterra offers vegan and gluten free Christmas Eve Dinners and a Christmas Day Lunch. One of the main courses, Celeriac, Potato and Truffle Pithivier, is inspired by the celeriac, a root vegetable that has come into its own lately because of its versatility. Sweet tooths out there will struggle to choose between the Vegan Chocolate Cake with Salted Caramel Sorbet or the gluten free Moscato and Saffron Poached Williams Pear with Pear Sorbet. 

Price: Christmas Eve dinner starts at HK$1,188 per person; Christmas Day lunch starts at HK$1,988 per person

Salisterra, Level 49 The Upper House Pacific Place 88, Queensway, Admiralty, +852 3968 1106


Amber, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental

Source: Landmark Mandarin Oriental

Landmark Mandarin Oriental’s Director of F&B Richard Ekkebus has long been an advocate of sustainable dining. Since November, the restaurant has been donating proceeds from their vegetarian and vegan menu to support The Green Earth’s Plantation Enrichment Programme to restore woodlands in Hong Kong. 

Amber offers a contemporary French Christmas menu, where guests can choose from three-, four-, or six-course lunch menu and six- or nine-course dinner menus. Marrying earthy beetroot with sweet tart plums, the Crapaudine Beetroot Plum, Home Made Umeboshi & Pepper Berry Dish as a true reflection of a seasonal, locally sourced dish. 

Price: Christmas Eve dinner from HK$2,088 per person, Christmas lunch and dinner from HK$1,788 per person; kids’ menu available at HK$708 per person

Amber,  15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, +852 2132 0066


Co-written by: Emilie Yabut-Razon and Claudia Lee

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The post The Best Vegan and Plant-based Christmas Feasts in Hong Kong appeared first on 8Shades.

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8 Days of Christmas Giveaway: Win A Staycation At Ocean Park Marriott https://www.8shades.com/8-days-christmas-giveaway/ Tue, 14 Dec 2021 17:22:15 +0000 http://www.8shades.com/?p=6393 Join the 8 Days of Christmas giveaway for your chance to win a staycation at Ocean Park Marriott, 8Shades x CASETIFY phone case, Nuteese cheese platter and more!

The post 8 Days of Christmas Giveaway: Win A Staycation At Ocean Park Marriott appeared first on 8Shades.

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‘Tis is the season of giving, and we’re doing just that with our ‘8 Days of Christmas’ giveaway! From 10-17 December, we’ll be giving away fantastic prizes from brands including 8Shades x CASETiFY, Dougheyes, Nuteese, NakedLab, Lono, Innotier, BYOB, and Ocean Park Marriott!

Each day, we’ll be announcing the prizes daily on our Instagram account (@8shadesofficial) and in order to be eligible, simply register your details and follow the instructions below:

How to enter

  1. First, fill in the following form:

Subscribe

* indicates required

2. Like and follow us on Instagram (@8shadesofficial).

3. Keep your eyes peeled for our special giveaway posts from 10-17 December and follow the instructions on each post. It’s as simple as that – good luck!

The prizes

8Shades x CASETiFY Sustainable iPhone cases
Source: 8Shades x CASETiFY

New phone case, who dis? To celebrate the launch of our brand new 8Shades x CASETiFY sustainable iPhone cases, we’ll be giving away five cases to five lucky winners. Made from a proprietary blend of plant-based bioplastic, recycled factory waste and old CASETiFY phone cases, they’re the perfect way to make a green statement.

Learn more about the 8Shades x CASETiFY collab!


Dougheyes Festive Cookie Box
Source: @dougheyes/Instagram

Any cookie monsters out there? One lucky winner will win a holiday cookie box from Dougheyes, which includes seasonal flavours such as Spicy Hot Coco w/ Marshmallows, Classic Gingerbread with Choco Chips and Spiced & Salted Toffee-Nut Snickerdoodle. All cookies are egg-free, dairy-free and vegan (with the exception of the marshmallows, of course)!

*Winner must be available to self pick-up the cookies on Mon, 20 December 2021 (no exceptions can be made).


8Shades Sustainable Gift Hamper for Everyone
Source: 8Shades

Newly launched in the 8Shades shop, we’ll be giving away one of our best-selling 8Shades Sustainable Hampers for Everyone, which includes a custom printed 8Shades x CASETiFY water bottle, Stasher sandwich bag, Innotier mask, STTOKE coffee cup, biodynamic wine and more!

Learn more about 8Shades’ Sustainable Hampers here!


Nuteese Festive Vegan Cheese Platter
Source: Nuteese

Say cheese! One lucky winner will receive a festive vegan cheese platter from Nuteese, including three types of ‘cheese’ (Truffle Hunter, Merry Cranberry, and Cam Meets Brie), four varieties of Divine Indulgence Crackers to pair with the cheese, and a bottle of Perrier-Jouët Champagne Brut.

Learn more about Nuteese


NakedLab French Sage bamboo silk bedding set
Source: NakedLab

NakedLab’s luxurious French Sage bedding set is made from 100% organic and sustainably sourced bamboo, which means it’s vegan, eco-friendly and free of any harmful chemicals. One lucky winner will receive a lightweight and breathable bedding set including a fitted sheet, duvet cover and two pillow slips.


Lono Sneakers & Innotier Reusable Masks

Get sustainable from head to toe with Lono. One lucky winner will receive a pair of Lono sneakers, which are sustainable sockless sneakers made with all-natural plant-based materials.


Clean Beauty Products From BYOB (Blend Your Own Beauty)
Source: BYOB

Clean up your beauty routine with BYOB (aka. Blend Your Own Beauty), a local brand of clean skincare. We’ll be giving away a clean beauty set including their SOC – Super Osmotic Cleanser, ADAP – Adaptogen Defense, DSM – Deep Sea Mask and SOL – Super Osmotic Lotion.


Staycation at Ocean Park Marriott
Source: Ocean Park Marriott

Last but definitely not least, we’ll be giving one lucky winner a one-night staycation at the Ocean Park Marriott! Located in Wong Chuk Hang next to Ocean Park itself, it’s the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.


Be sure to register your details at the top of this page and follow us on Instagram @8shadesofficial for daily updates. Good luck!

The post 8 Days of Christmas Giveaway: Win A Staycation At Ocean Park Marriott appeared first on 8Shades.

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8Shades x CASETiFY: Protecting Your Phone & The Planet https://www.8shades.com/8shades-casetify-sustainable-capsule-collection/ Wed, 08 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000 http://www.8shades.com/?p=6212 It's live – our 8Shades x CASETiFY capsule collection is now available globally for 8Shaders around the world!

The post 8Shades x CASETiFY: Protecting Your Phone & The Planet appeared first on 8Shades.

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It’s live! We’re proud to announce the launch of our 8Shades x CASETiFY capsule collection of sustainable phone cases! This is our branded collection for CASETiFY’s line of Re/CASETiFY phone cases, which are just as strong and protective as their regular phone cases – but with a 20% smaller carbon footprint.

Designed by 8Shades, the sustainable phone cases promote a greener lifestyle with fun and cheeky graphic slogans such as ‘What’s Your Green’, ‘Love The Earth’ and ‘Being Imperfectly Sustainable’.

The 8Shades x Re/CASETiFY case is made from 65% sustainable materials. (Source: 8Shades)

Boasting 65% sustainable material by weight, the cases are a proprietary blend of plant-based bioplastic, recycled factory waste and old phone cases collected from CASETiFY’s recycling program. 

Source: CASETiFY

“We are incredibly proud to partner with CASETiFY on their Re/CASETiFY collection,” said Emily Lam-Ho, founder of 8Shades. “We’re all about making the world a shade greener and this can be as simple as choosing a phone case that protects both your phone and the planet.”

Emily Lam-Ho and the 8Shades x Re/CASETiFY case. (Source: 8Shades)

“We instantly connected with Emily about the next steps our industries need to take for a greener future, which made this collaboration a natural partnership,” said Wesley Ng, CASETiFY CEO and Co-founder. “CASETiFY remains committed to bringing sustainable solutions to the tech accessory market, and our collaboration with 8Shades is a perfect example of that.”

If you’ve been looking for a chic and stylish way to make a green statement, the 8Shades x Re/CASETiFY iPhone cases are it! (They also make great stocking stuffers, hint hint…)

Head over casetify.com to shop the brand new 8Shades Collection, which is now available on for the iPhone 11, 12 and 13 series.


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The post 8Shades x CASETiFY: Protecting Your Phone & The Planet appeared first on 8Shades.

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