Vegetarian Cooking Classes – every Saturday during July 2009

Twelve members of the ESC enrolled and took part in the Saturday Vegetarian Cooking classes during 4, 11, 18 & 25 July. This was the first time that cooking classes have been held for local English speaking members.

Mrs Karen Ji (Vice Chairperson of East 2 Sub chapter) kindly donated her time to take these cooking sessions. She taught the class how to make eight different dishes. Members helped the teacher prepare food in advance, set up the table, learn more about meal time Buddhist etiquette and assist with cleaning up after the meal.  By the students taking an active part in all aspects of the classes, our teacher will feel appreciated and it will leave a good impression of the students’ good attitude and willingness to help. Karen taught us it is best to start with simple food and with ingredients that are easy to find and purchase.

The students also learned that cooking is not hard if we have confidence, a good heart and to be mindful about cooking food that others need - not for our own needs or for favour.

On the final week she also took the participants shopping to help guide the class with the purchase of the various ingredients used in the dishes she introduced to the class.

The participants are very appreciative of Karen for passing on her expertise and for her patience and generosity. Veronica Lee, one of the Vice Chairperson of ESC was also a great help as she translated the recipes and interpreted for the class during the cooking classes. It is a great example of interaction and cooperation between the Temple sub chapters.