Compiled by the Monks at the Zen Monastery Practice Center under the Guidance of Cheri Huber

Reviewed by Amy O'Neill Houck


Having never heard of the Zen Monastery Practice Center, I was very curious to begin reading their cookbook. It turns out to be a simple, whole foods cookbook made up of the monks' favorite recipes. While many of the recipes are reprinted with permission from other books prized by the center, most are favorite recipes used by the monks throughout the history of the Practice Center. There is also important information on basics such as making soy milk, and a pretty good selection of sweets (yes, these monks eat dessert!). Furthermore, if you're interested in Zen practice, you'll also find the accompanying essays to be a welcome addition to the book. The book is straightforward, and the food is, too.

A cookbook written collaboratively by Zen monks seems like a fascinating idea. They obviously work hard on their spiritual journey and put care into the simple dishes they create. The book is clear and easy to understand and might be good for beginner cooks. As the recipes are all well-loved by the monks, some of them could easily become favorites of yours too.

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