Dharma Rain Meditation Center

Weekly Buddhist Diet: Yam and Goji Berry Soup The fifth week of October 2025 Summary:Yam and Goji Berry Soup is a nourishing and naturally sweet vegetarian soup suitable for all seasons, especially beneficial during dry or fatigued conditions. Chinese yam is rich in plant-based protein, polysaccharides, and enzymes that support digestion, tonify the spleen, and boost energy. Goji berries are loaded with antioxidants, iron, and vitamin C, known to nourish the liver and kidneys while improving vision and vitality. When combined, these ingredients create a mild yet flavorful soup with a golden-clear broth and subtle sweetness. Optional additions like red dates or white fungus can enhance both flavor and nutrition.…

Weekly Buddhist Diet: Vegetarian Lion’s Head Meatballs Fourth week of October 2025 Summary:Vegetarian Lion’s Head Meatballs are a classic Chinese dish reimagined with wholesome plant-based ingredients. Instead of minced meat, this version uses tofu, shiitake mushrooms, and water chestnuts to achieve a soft yet structured texture. The tofu provides protein and a silky base, the mushrooms bring a deep umami aroma, and the water chestnuts add a refreshing crunch. The mixture is formed into large balls, lightly pan-fried until golden, and then simmered in vegetable broth to absorb flavor and achieve a tender, melt-in-the-mouth consistency. The finished dish glows golden in color with a savory, clean broth and a delightful…

Weekly Buddhist Diet: Electric Steamed Tofu Pudding October 2025, Week 3 Summary:Electric Steamed Tofu Pudding is a silky, melt-in-the-mouth traditional vegan dessert made from fresh soy milk and a natural coagulant such as gypsum powder or GDL (glucono delta-lactone). The result is a smooth, tender texture with a delicate bean aroma. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, it delivers a comforting, balanced taste. Soy milk is rich in plant-based protein and calcium, which helps nourish the body and strengthen vitality. When paired with soy sauce, sesame oil, tahini, pickled vegetables, and fresh coriander, the pudding transforms into a savory delight with complex umami layers. The recipe is simple and fail-proof —…

Weekly Buddhist Diet: Shepherd’s Purse and Tofu Dumplings Second week of October 2025 Summary:Shepherd’s Purse and Tofu Dumplings are a light, fragrant, and nutritious vegetarian dish that captures the freshness and the delicacy of traditional Chinese dumplings. Shepherd’s purse, a seasonal wild green, is rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron, which help detoxify the body and support overall wellness. Combined with tofu, the filling becomes smooth and protein-rich, creating a perfectly balanced, plant-based meal. The dumpling wrappers are thin, encasing a generous, aromatic filling that becomes tender and juicy once boiled. A touch of sesame oil and soy sauce enhances the natural aroma of the ingredients without…

Weekly Buddhist Diet: Dry Pot Sautéed Potato Slices The First Week of October 2025 Summary:Dry Pot Sautéed Potato Slices is a flavorful and aromatic vegetarian dish known for its layered texture and vibrant color. Fresh potatoes are thinly sliced, blanched to remove excess starch, and then stir-fried in a dry wok to retain their natural fragrance and slight chewiness. Paired with bell peppers and shiitake mushrooms, the dish offers a perfect balance of softness, crispness, and mild spiciness. Potatoes are rich in dietary fiber and potassium, helping lower cholesterol and support cardiovascular health, while mushrooms and peppers add vitamins, antioxidants, and plant-based protein. Unlike deep-fried potatoes, this dry stir-frying method…