When we think of vegetarian diet, we will think vegetarianism just means “no meat, right? Hmm, you might not have stepped into the world of Chinese-style vegetarianism yet!
In Asia, Buddhism and Daoism have a much stronger cultural influence compared to Europe or America. Over time, religious beliefs and everyday ideas have mixed together, creating different concepts of vegetarianism. In places where are influenced by Buddhist culture, being vegetarian isn’t just about avoiding meat. There is also a hidden rule, namely “No Five Pungent Spices”. They are garlic, spring onion, leek, onion and asafoetida.
These plants aren’t vegetarian?!
Per the Buddhist beliefs, these five ingredients are too strong in flavour, which can disrupt meditation and even make people more irritable. That’s why in traditional Asian communities, especially the ones who believe Buddhists, they believe that true vegetarianism should exclude these ingredients. If a dish contains any of them, some people won’t consider it vegetarian at all!
That’s why you often see some vegetarian restaurants labeled as “Pure Vegetarian” or even specifically marked “No Five Pungent Spices” in the Asia places. Five pungent spices are garlic, spring onion, leek, onion, and asafoetida, which is a strong-smelling spice.
Plant-based diet trend
If you do not have any religion, people usually have the idea of being vegetarian just means no meat. If you are vegan, then no animal products like honey, butter, or cheese are eaten. But garlic and onions? They are totally fine.
Culture influences flavours, and background shapes perception, so the definition of vegetarianism varies across different societies. But nowadays, plant-based eating is becoming super popular, especially among younger generations. Many people now use the term “plant-based diet” instead of “vegetarianism.” This is a lifestyle. This is a trend.
In a plant-based diet, there is no rule against eating garlic or onions! As long as it comes from a plant, it is part of plant-based cooking and eating.
So… what kind of vegetarian are you? 😁
