Greek monks find inventive ways to prepare meals during Lent

At the Monastery of St. Augustine and Seraphim in central Greece, monks have embraced creativity during Lent, discovering ways to replicate familiar flavours and textures while still honoring the strict fasting rules leading up to Easter.

The 40 monks cultivate and harvest much of their own food in the monastery’s gardens in the village of Trikorfo, staying faithful to Lenten traditions while experimenting with alternative techniques to enhance their meals.

Among their innovations, they coat oven-roasted potatoes with tahini instead of oil to maintain a crispy texture, and prepare rich vegetable stock from scratch to boost the flavour of lentil dishes.

Speaking to AP, the monastery’s abbot, Father Nektarios Moulatsiotis, emphasized that observing the Lenten fast is essential for spiritual focus and preparation ahead of Easter.

Father Isaac serves lentils for the midday meal at the Monastery of St. Augustine and Seraphim of Sarov. Photo: AAP via AP/Thanassis Stavrakis

“In much the same way people go to the gym to strengthen their bodies, the church serves as a training ground for the soul,” Father Nektarios said.

He added that the discipline required during Lent can sharpen mental clarity while fostering greater self-control.

“You can’t truly pray, study, chant, or engage in spiritual practices on a full stomach,” he noted.

Eirini Babaroutsi, a sports nutritionist with the Hellenic Athletics Federation, also highlighted the health benefits of Lent, noting that it encourages people to diversify their diets.

Father Nektarios, the Abbot of the Monastery of St. Augustine and Seraphim of Sarov. Photo: AAP via AP/Thanassis Stavrakis

“Fasting can offer real benefits, as long as it’s practiced properly,” Babaroutsi explained.

“For instance, Orthodox Christians typically increase their fibre intake during Lent, which supports better digestion.”

She emphasized the importance of balancing different food groups to ensure the body receives all the nutrients needed for a healthy diet.

Babaroutsi also pointed out that the six-week Lenten fast may not be suitable for older adults or young children.

The Eastern Orthodox Church likewise grants exemptions to those with serious health conditions, specific dietary needs, as well as pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Source: Neoskosmos          Edited by Bernie