If you’re looking for vegetarian condiments that are free of onions, garlic, and eggs—whether for dietary restrictions, allergies, religious or personal preference — there are still many delicious options to explore. Here are some common condiments that typically don’t contain onions, garlic, or eggs, and…

In the Japanese Zen tradition, cleaning is called “Osoji” and appreciated as a path to cultivate one’s mind. In fact, for a Zen Monk, Soji is a core practice in and of itself. Monks put as much time into practicing osoji as they do into…

For those with dietary restrictions or allergies, finding condiments that meet specific needs can be a daunting task. Whether you’re avoiding onions and garlic due to a low-FODMAP diet, personal preference, or religious reasons—or steering clear of eggs because of allergies or veganism—the search for…

Growing up I always hated cleaning my room. As a child, I don’t think it was laziness exactly, but there was freedom I experienced having my toys strewn about and leaving a trail of winter clothes on the path toward my bedroom. At first, my…

Ketchup is a globally popular condiment with a rich history that spans centuries. Originally derived from a fermented fish sauce called “kê-tsiap” from Southeast Asia, ketchup evolved as it traveled through Europe, where it was made using ingredients like mushrooms and walnuts. In the early…

As a professional culinary instructor, I can tell you that approximately 40 percent of the time dishes prepared from written recipes go wrong because my students did not actually read the recipe. Sure, I know they think they did, and they will tell me that…

In today’s world, we face a significant reality: the weight of human-made mass has now overtaken the total biomass of all living beings on Earth. This moment urges us to reflect on this truth, resonating with Zen Buddhism and prompting us to reconsider our role…

Zen is a versatile spiritual practice with various forms, each offering unique approaches to practice. There are five distinct kinds of Zen — Bompū Zen, Gedō Zen, Shōjō Zen, Daijō Zen, and Saijōjō Zen — highlighting a range of motivations and goals for practitioners, from…

Onions and garlic are staples in many kitchens around the world, known for their ability to add depth and flavor to countless dishes. However, there are several reasons why people might choose to cook without these pungent ingredients. Whether for health, dietary restrictions, cultural or…