Mindful Meals · Portugal

Skarabo Life

Beautifully crafted plant-based meals that balance local, in-season, organic, low-waste, and animal-free cooking.

by Lotte de Bruijn

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What I Do

Plant-based culinary experiences crafted with care for every occasion

Retreats

Enhance your retreat with nourishing, plant-based meals tailored to your needs, from wholesome snacks to full balanced menus that complement your retreat's tone.

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Catering

Years of experience with diverse organizations, from Impact Hub Lisbon to Villa Epicurea. Sustainable, memorable culinary experiences aligned with your vision.

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Festivals

Supporting your festival food operations with experience, enthusiasm, and adaptability, from prep to service, working seamlessly with your team.

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The Journey

Lotte de Bruijn — Plant-Based Chef

In my early 20's, I got obsessed with wanting to do good for the planet, to support my local community, and be more healthy. I wanted to support local businesses and buy my ingredients from local produce; it had to be seasonal and organic; I didn't like plastic packaging; I was afraid of E-numbers, gluten, sugar… and on top of it all I decided to keep out all the animal products.

Really quickly it started to get quite stressful. I didn't know what to buy anymore.

I started to understand it's better to do the best I can, to not be so tough on myself, be aware and mindful of what I buy, guard my values, and cook with love and balance. I still want to do good for the planet, my community, and my health — and feel I am actually doing a better job at it than 10 years ago.

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What People Say

"One of the best things that happened to Villa Epicurea was to have Lotte as a chef for nearly 3 years. Lotte's food is more delicious than you can imagine in your wildest dreams. Life got divided by BEFORE and AFTER Lotte."

Marianna Yakobson

Owner · Villa Epicurea

"Every dish was full of flavor, beautifully presented, and made with so much care. You truly elevated the entire experience. Your cooking was one of the highlights of the retreat."

Mareike Brehm

Retreat Participant · Yoga Art

"It was the first time I haven't had any problems with my gut. I had the chance to eat in a 2 Michelin Star restaurant and I can tell you, your food had more taste, was more nutritious, and had a lot more 'Mmmmhhhhh'."

Katharina Dörnfeld

Retreat Participant

"Lotte is one of the most creatively talented chefs I've ever encountered, introducing me to colors, flavors, and textures I've never experienced before. Heaven on a plate of food!"