The world of Tzu Chi January 2021 (Vol.130)

S ince young, Tan Ah Yok (seated, left) would help her mother slaughter livestock during festive seasons, as worship offerings. After she married her foodie husband, they would drive to savour good food regardless of the distance. When Ah Yok came across Tzu Chi in year 2000, she would bake cakes to share with the volunteers. Two years later, she became a Tzu Chi volunteer officially and started listening to Master Cheng Yen’s Dharma talks. Each time she heard the Master preaching about the law of cause and effect, and the six realms of cyclic existence, fear arose in her. She loved meat, but she also believed in what the Master said about the law of karma. In 2005, the doctor found a fibroid on her uterus, which required a removal surgery. While lying on the surgical table, she was overwhelmed with fear and could relate it to the fears of the animals being slaughtered. At that moment, she was awakened. She vowed in her heart to uphold and promote vegetarianism if she could ride out the adversity. Ah Yok kept her promise after the surgery. However, three months later, her husband was diagnosed with nasal cancer. He lost his appetite during chemotherapy period. Hence, Ah Yok tried her best to explore various natural and healthy vegetarian cooking. She diligently referred to vegetarian recipe books and information related to health and wellness, through which, she learnt to prepare nutritious meals with vegetables and fruits from different colour groups, multigrain and nuts. She also encouraged her husband to exercise and maintain a light diet. Gradually, his health improved. Other than cooking for her family, Ah Yok would also share her cooking with her neighbours and others, as a way to promote vegetarianism. Thanks to her influence and superb vegetarian cooking skills, her three children slowly became vegetarians too. They would also explore vegetarian restaurants that serve good food and bring their parents to taste the food. “This is ‘Bountiful Blessings’, this is ‘Happy Reunion’, this is ‘Abundant Joy’ and this is ‘Prosperity’.”AhYok gladly introduced the festive dishes she had prepared. She always enjoys cooking and serving delicious vegetarian food for her guests during the Lunar New Year. Her family’s sincere hospitality, and the food she mindfully prepares, always warm everyone’s heart. Here, she has generously shared two simple recipes. Do try them out! TZU CHI 130 51