Shojin Ryori is a vegetarian cuisine that is based mainly on rice, soybean products (e.g. tofu), seaweed, mushrooms and seasonal fresh vegetables and is traditionally eaten by Buddhist monks. It is similar to a vegan diet.
Many amazing cooking techniques are unique and some of the dishes you'll learn how to cook are not available at an ordinary Japanese restaurant.
This hands-on cooking class in Sydney will be held by Sumi Saikawa who was born and grew up at a Zen Temple in Japan where the techniques of Shojin Royori were learnt. Now she is working as a nutritionist and a cooking instructor, running many healthy cooking classes for adults and children.
The class will follow the typical Japanese home cooking style 'Ichi Jyu Sansai'. This follows the foundation of Japanese cuisine since ancient times where meals consist of one type of soup and three other dishes (one main dish and two sides). In fact, 'Ichi' means one and 'Jyu' means soup, while 'san' is three and 'sai' refers to dishes - so ichiju-sansai literally means, 'one soup, three dishes'. Rice is always served as well.
Over the course of the three-hour, hands-on class, we will work together to create each component of our ichiju-sansai. All components will be gluten-free and taught in a way so that you can easily replicate the recipes back at home.
This class is perfect for a vegan diet. Dishes include:
- Scattered vegetable sushi
- Seasonal soup
- Sesame tofu with wasabi soy sauce
- Steam cabbage with sesame dressing.
- White radish pickles
On top of your new knowledge of Japanese culture, you will learn:
- An introduction to Shojin Ryori (Japanese temple cooking)
- Basic etiquette of eating Japanese foods
- How to make Japanese vegan stock
- How to use traditional Japanese seasonings and alternative seasonings
- To understand the benefits and potential risks of a gluten-free diet
This class is suitable for people who are gluten intolerant, follow a vegan lifestyle or just have an interest in this cooking.
Please note:
- All ingredients will be gluten-free, however, the environment is not totally gluten-free.
- Two friendly dogs are in the premises which keep outside during the lesson.
Cancellation policy
Please note if you cancel your booking less than 24 hours before, you will be subject to a 30% charge for the ingredients fee. To avoid the cancellation fee, please provide cancellation notice at least 24hours prior to your booking.
This class is for anybody interested in Japanese cuisine. Beginners, intermediates, advanced - all are welcome!
 
- Delicious gluten-free and vegan Japanese lunch
- Great discussion with like-minded people
- Insight into Japanese culture
- Recipes for everything you make
Please bring your favourite apron, tea towels and a pen.
 
This class is great for
individuals
and couples
as well as for
a team building activity, Christmas party, birthday or hens party.
This would also be a
nice
gift for her,
gift for mum,
anniversary gift or
birthday gift.