← Back to Daily Brief
🍜 Food
May 25, 2026

Temple Food as Spiritual Practice: Buddha’s Birthday Tradition

A renowned temple food expert in Seoul is preparing yeonipbap (lotus leaf rice) ahead of Buddha's Birthday this Sunday. The Ven. Hyebeom, recently named one of Korea's top 12 Grade 1 temple food experts, explains how Buddhist cuisine combines discipline, gratitude, and mindfulness. This traditional dish involves hours of preparation—soaking rice, layering ingredients like chestnuts and jujubes, and wrapping it all in lotus leaves.
Why It Matters
If you're in Korea around Buddha's Birthday or visiting temples, understanding temple food culture helps you appreciate Korean Buddhist traditions and enjoy authentic meals served at temple stays or celebrations.
Read Source ← Back to Daily Brief