In December 2024, Tse-Xin Organic Agriculture Foundation invited internationally acclaimed vegetarian culinary philosopher Venerable Jeong Kwan to Taiwan for the “Zen Delight in Food” plant-based cuisine promotion tour. Featured in the Netflix documentary Chef’s Table and recognized as one of the icons of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Ven. Jeong Kwan is known for her philosophy of “monastery cuisine.” This approach resonates deeply with the values of Tse-Xin’s founder, Master Jih Chang—respect for nature and all life. During her visit, a series of events including plant-based banquets, sharing sessions, and exchanges with culinary professionals have been carefully planned for different audiences. Notably, two public talks titled “Zen Delight in Food” mark the first time Ven. Jeong Kwan delivered a public lecture in Taiwan.

The tour began with the “Alms Bowl Offering Banquet” held at the Tse-Xin Natural Garden. Each dish was designed and explained by Ven. Jeong Kwan, incorporating her spiritual practice and life experience. After the meal, participants engaged in a session of “Walking Meditation,” connecting food with body, mind, and spirit. Minister of Environment Peng Chi-Ming attended the entire event and praised Ven. Jeong Kwan for elevating Korean cuisine to a new level. Yunlin Deputy Magistrate Hsieh Shu-Ya described the experience as a spiritual spa, deeply soothing. Ven. Jeong Kwan expressed deep respect for Tse-Xin’s founder, Master Jih-Chang, saying the Foundation’s commitment to life and nature made her feel as though she had arrived in her own personal “Pure Land.”

The tour continued with her first public lectures in Taichung and Taipei, drawing an audience of over 700 people. Ven. Jeong Kwan shared her life journey and her philosophy on the inter-connectedness of humans and nature, moving many attendees to tears. She engaged in warm and humorous dialogue with host Dr. Hou Wen-Yong, a physician and writer. Dr. Hou commented, “The purpose and great vow of the Venerable’s journey is to unite the world with joyful, healthy food. It’s a shared responsibility—we must all work together.”

The next day, a “Culinary Exchange” was held for professional chefs. Ven. Jeong Kwan demonstrated her cooking process, sharing not only her deep understanding of ingredients but also the life experiences behind them, enriching the spiritual dimension of culinary art. Participants were deeply inspired.

Ven. Jeong Kwan’s four heartfelt wishes are: to overcome the climate crisis, protect nature, respect and save all life, and to begin change from within. This cross-cultural, interfaith culinary journey was more than just a celebration of food—it was a profound dialogue of body, mind, and spirit. Ven. Jeong Kwan’s visit invited all to reflect on the relationship between diet, personal well-being, the planet, and all living beings. Her hope is that more people will make conscious, compassionate choices—starting with what’s on their plate.