About

Hello and welcome to Just Flora No Fauna! ❤️

I’m Natali Smilevska, a Macedonian recipe creator, devoted animal lover and the person behind this blog.

Just Flora No Fauna is where I share easy, delicious and affordable vegan recipes, with a special focus on the traditional Macedonian and Balkan flavours I grew up with. My goal is to show that plant-based food can be comforting, familiar and full of flavour—without being complicated or expensive.

Why I Started This Blog

I created Just Flora No Fauna because I wanted to share the meals I prepare and enjoy in my everyday life. The idea began spontaneously, with a simple wish to help others discover new ideas for their next breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert.

Growing up in Macedonia introduced me to a rich food culture filled with seasonal vegetables, beans, grains, herbs and warming spices. Many recipes on this blog are inspired by those familiar flavours, recreated in a completely vegan way.

My Vegan Story

My journey began at Christmas in 2009. While eating dinner, I suddenly started thinking deeply about where meat came from and what animals experienced before reaching our plates.

That evening, I began researching the treatment of animals in the food industry. What I learned affected me deeply, and I decided that meat would no longer be part of my life.

I first became vegetarian and later, in 2015, transitioned to a fully vegan lifestyle after learning more about the dairy industry. Becoming vegan transformed my relationship with food. My meals became more colourful, creative and varied, and cooking became one of my favourite ways to express care—for myself, other people, animals and the planet.

Inspired by Animals

Animals have always held a special place in my heart. I grew up surrounded by them, but one of my greatest teachers was my dog Deedee, a French poodle who shared 18 beautiful years with my family. She taught me responsibility, patience, loyalty and unconditional love.

My connection with animals later inspired me to study animal communication and holistic practices. Compassion for animals remains at the heart of everything I create, including every recipe on this blog.

What You’ll Find Here

On Just Flora No Fauna, you’ll discover:

• Vegan Macedonian and Balkan recipes
• Easy everyday plant-based meals
• Affordable recipes made with accessible ingredients
• Comforting soups, main dishes, snacks and desserts
• Simple inspiration for adding more plant-based food to your life

Whether you are vegan, curious about plant-based eating or simply searching for a delicious new recipe, I hope you feel welcome here.

Thank you for visiting and supporting Just Flora No Fauna. I hope my recipes bring warmth, flavour and inspiration to your kitchen. 🌿

You can follow Just Flora No Fauna on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

For questions about my recipes, contact me at [email protected].

With love,
Natali