This is more than a cookbook. For the dozens of people involved in its production, whether they were Monastery Cooks or Cook Assistants, this book is an expression of gratitude for the practice of conscious, compassionate awareness that transforms their lives. Their dedication to the path they follow fills these pages. These recipes arose out of the silence of the Monastery kitchen and from the devotion of those who practice here. Their stories -- funny stories, inspiring stories -- and the wonderful food for which we are known, we offer to you here. Depending on how you look at it, cooking and the practice of Zen -- the practice of conscious, compassionate awareness -- are the same thing. Our teacher, Cheri Huber, often reminds us, "It's not what you do, it's how you do it." For example, just as bread is a staple of our diet, so repetition is a staple of our practice.

If you are Cook long enough, that repetition eventually leads to the question, "Can I find freedom from suffering chopping vegetables every single day? Can I find the place within where there is only joy?" And if we are willing, day by day, meal by meal, carrot by carrot, that joy unfolds. We wish that this book might bring you as much pleasure and freedom as it has brought to us. Enjoy. Book jacket.