The Chinese Buddhism Diet consists of avoiding all meat products, or eating a . Vegetarianism is consistent with Buddhist principles, which teach that one should do no harm, including killing animals in order to eat them. Although the is based on moral, ideological principles, it also offers health the benefits that come with avoiding meat consumption, such as lower cholesterol levels and--for some--improved energy levels.
HIstory of the Chinese
Buddhism became widespread in India with the conversion of the emperor Ashoka, who reigned from 268 to 223 B.C, and it spread to China during the first century AD. The Buddhist principle of "ahimsa," or doing no harm, was a natural fit with the ancient Chinese tradition of vegetarianism, which can be traced back to the prophet king Fu Xi. During the Fifth century A.D. the emperor Liang of Wu tried to require all Chinese vegetarian monks to follow a vegetarian diet. His evangelism sparked controversy, but even today many Chinese monks and laypeople continue to practice a vegetarian diet.
Chinese Vegetarian Foods
By the time Buddhism made its way to China, the country already had already embraced tofu as a staple that could be gracefully substituted for meat. Many Chinese dishes use meat and tofu, but tofu contains enough protein to stand on its own in vegetarian dishes. The Chinese never incorporated dairy products, such as milk and cheese, into their diets on a large scale, so Chinese Buddhist foods tend to be vegan as well as vegetarian. There is also a strong Chinese vegetarian tradition of preparing meat-like products from soy and wheat gluten.
Buddha's Delight
One of the most popular Chinese Buddhist dishes is called "Buddha's Delight." It is traditionally served on the Chinese New Year, but it is also available throughout the year, and you can find it on the menu at most Chinese restaurants. It consists of mixed vegetables and tofu stir fried with soy sauce. Different chefs have their own versions of the dish, which typically contains 18 ingredients.
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