Vegetarian Cooking Class

4th July 2009

The first vegetarian cooking class was held at Fo Guang Shan Temple - North Island, last Saturday afternoon. It was organized by the English Sub chapter members. It was the first of a series of four being held throughout July 09.

Mrs Ji demonstrated two 2 dishes - Hot & Sour Soup & Pineapple Fried Rice. All members enjoyed the class especially sharing the dishes together after the class.

During lunch, Venerable Miaoyu shared with everyone the reason that Buddhists do not eat vegetables from the garlic family; she also talked about Buddhist etiquette with formal meals such as the way to sit, eat, and hold the bowl and chopsticks.

During the class Mrs Ji spoke about her experience of cooking in FGS temples and how she learnt from watching others and then slowly taking a more active role in the actual cooking. She said that it is not difficult to cook if we have confidence and start from the basics like cleaning, cutting, washing etc, and being willing to take instruction and accept the different ways of others. Venerable Miaoyu also reminded us that by having a good heart while we cook it will be passed onto others.

The Chapter wish to acknowledge Mrs Karen Ji, (Vice President of East 1 Sub chapter) for giving up her precious time to teach and share her talents and experience with the 12 attendees. She postponed her trip to Taiwan so she could take the cooking classes. Her commitment and willingness to share her talents is very appreciated by all the attendees.

Thanks and appreciation also goes to Veronica Lee, who did the translation for the group and for the recipes.