Tag: Jain cuisine

Hing, known scientifically as asafoetida, is a resin from the Ferula plant native to Central Asia, yet it is a deeply embedded spice in Indian kitchens. Despite its pungent, sulfuric raw smell, when tempered in hot oil or ghee, it transforms into a mellow, savory, and umami-rich flavor reminiscent of onions and garlic. Its incorporation is not merely for taste but is steeped in tradition, health beliefs, and dietary practices.

Rooted in the ancient philosophy of *ahimsa*, or non-violence, the Jain diet is a meticulously planned vegetarian or vegan cuisine. Learning what are the benefits of eating Jain food reveals how this ethical tradition fosters both physical wellness and a lighter environmental impact.

According to Jain principles, which emphasize non-violence (ahimsa), many followers avoid root vegetables like garlic and onion because harvesting them harms small organisms in the soil. In Jain cuisine, the pungent and savory flavor of garlic is skillfully replaced by a powerful spice known as asafoetida, or hing. This substitution allows for the creation of flavorful dishes while adhering to strict dietary guidelines.

Jainism, one of the world's most ancient religions, is founded on the core principle of *Ahimsa*, or non-violence towards all living beings. This deep-seated belief extends to dietary practices, leading to a strict form of vegetarianism that prohibits many common foods, including onions and garlic.

Jainism's dietary practices are based on the ancient principle of Ahimsa, or non-violence, a cornerstone of the religion. This profound ethical framework dictates what food is forbidden in Jain cuisine, with followers strictly avoiding not only meat and eggs but also many root vegetables and fermented foods.

While many perceive India as a uniformly vegetarian country, recent data indicates that about 42% of its population identifies as strictly vegetarian. This article explores *who doesn't eat meat in India*, examining the cultural, religious, and regional factors that influence these diverse dietary habits and the communities that follow them.

Based on the ancient principle of ahimsa, which is the practice of non-violence, the Jain diet is one of the world's most disciplined and ethical eating traditions. So, what are Jains allowed to eat? The diet strictly prohibits meat, fish, eggs, and root vegetables to minimize harm to all living beings, including microorganisms.