The Enlightened Kitchen

Nourish body and soul with simple, delicious food from Japan’s temples.


The Enlightened Kitchen introduces readers to shojin ryori, the traditional vegetarian cooking of Japan’s Buddhist temples. Shojin food, with its emphasis on fresh, seasonal vegetables, staples such as seaweed, grains and tofu, and natural flavorings rather than chemical additives, is a highly nutritious and delicious alternative to the many unhealthy eating habits of Western society. In addition to its health benefits, the preparation and eating of shojin food in Buddhist temples has great spiritual significance. After spending their days in rigorous selfdiscipline, the monks welcome mealtimes as a soothing respite, both for those preparing the food with loving care and for those eating it withrelaxed enjoyment.


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