Book excerpt: In this book, Buddhist temple priest and chef Koyu Iinuma shares the simple and delicious plant-based meals he prepares in the kitchens of Fukushoji temple in Yokohama, Japan. The 73 recipes showcased in Zen Vegan Food are incredibly beautiful and tasty, while also being nutritious, sustainable and ethically responsible. Color photos show the finished dishes, while comprehensive information on Japanese ingredients like seaweed, miso and tofu helps home cooks with shopping and preparation. In this cookbook, readers will find: 28 recipes for vegan congee—the traditional Asian rice porridge dish that is taking the West by storm. These include Congee with Eggplant and Ginger, Soymilk Congee and Congee with Saffron and Chestnuts. A chapter on Japanese-Italian dishes with recipes such as Grilled Turnips with Mustard and Olive Sauce, and Spaghetti with Pesto and Shiitake. Delicious condiments and starters to brighten up any meal, such as Mushroom Miso Paste and Crunchy Kombu Chips. Though we may not typically associate Buddhist monasteries with trendy chefs and temple cafes, a young generation of priests, like Iinuma, is ushering in a new era—one which emphasizes openness in temples and a reconnection to the natural world for ordinary people. Buddhist monastery chefs have been creating delicious vegan dishes for centuries, and Zen Vegan Food offers a modern take full of fun and flavor. For anyone interested in a sustainable, plant-based diet, this book will be a revelation—a new way to eat delicious and varied meals the whole family will enjoy.