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Monastery kitchen

The typical monastery cuisine is characterized by simplicity, freshness and seasonality. The monks and nuns in the monasteries follow a diet based on the principles of modesty, self-sufficiency and mindfulness of resources. Here are some features of typical monastery cuisine:

1. Vegetarian Emphasis:

Monastery kitchens often place an emphasis on vegetarian dishes. The use of fresh vegetables, herbs and legumes plays an important role in the monastic diet. The monks and nuns appreciate the purity and simplicity of vegetarian cuisine.

2. Self-sufficiency and home cultivation:

Many monasteries have their own gardens where they grow vegetables, herbs and fruit. Self-sufficiency is an important aspect of the monastic way of life, and the harvest is often used directly in the monastery kitchen.

3. Easy Preparation:

The preparation of food in the monastery kitchen is often simple and traditional. Basic cooking techniques are used to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Complex and time-consuming preparation methods are rather the exception.

4. Seasonal and Local Ingredients:

Monastery kitchens prefer to use seasonal and local ingredients. Fresh fruit and vegetables are harvested in season and incorporated into meals. This not only emphasizes freshness, but also supports sustainable agriculture.

5. Avoiding Waste:

Monasteries emphasize valuing resources and avoiding waste. Food is used carefully, and leftovers are often recycled into new dishes to minimize food waste.

6. Monastery bread and baked goods:

Bread has a special place in the monastery kitchen . Many monasteries have their own bakeries where traditional bread is baked. The recipes can range from simple farmer's bread to special monastery bread variants.

7. Fish on fasting days:

In some monastic traditions , fish is served on days when meat abstinence is practiced, as is common during Lent. The fish serves as a source of protein and is often simply prepared.

8. Monastic Herbalism:

Monasteries often use their own herb gardens to make teas and spice blends. These are used not only for culinary purposes but also for their potential health benefits.

9. Communal meals:

Eating in the monastery kitchen is often a communal activity. Meals are taken in a spiritual context, often accompanied by prayers or moments of silence and reflection.

The typical monastery cuisine reflects the deep connection between food, spirituality and sustainability. The simple, nutrient-dense meals not only nourish the body, but also nourish the soul and spirit.