Can Religion Make Us Better Stewards for the Planet?

October 1, 2023 By Chef John Politte

Can the world's religions save the planet? Can religion make us better stewards for the planet? What are some lessons on food production and the environment that religions have taught us? As we all know, food production significantly impacts the environment. Cultivating, harvesting, and processing crops and animal products affects land use, water resources, soil quality, and biodiversity. But how can religions contribute to mitigating these impacts? Many religions emphasize the value of nature and the importance of preserving it. Religious teachings can inspire individuals and communities to take action to reduce the negative impact of food production on the environment. In this article, I will hopefully answer some of these questions as I explore how religions can make us better stewards for the planet while teaching us how to reduce the impact of food production on the environment. Read more

7 Ways Food Can Highlight National Good Neighbor Day

September 24, 2023 By Chef John Politte

National Good Neighbor Day is a day that is celebrated every year on September 28th. This day was created to encourage people to be better neighbors and to build stronger communities. One great way to celebrate this day is by sharing food and fun with your neighbors. Some National Good Neighbor Day food ideas will help you unite your community. Read more

The Debate Over GMOs

September 17, 2023 By Chef John Politte

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The ethical debate surrounding the use of GMOs is centered on the question of whether it is morally justifiable to alter the genetic composition of living organisms. Critics argue that the use of GMOs is unethical because it involves tampering with the fundamental building blocks of life, and that such activities amount to assuming the role of a higher power by taking control over nature. Furthermore, they contend that the long-term effects of GMOs on the environment and human health are not yet fully understood, and that we should not be willing to risk causing irreversible harm. On the other hand, proponents of GMOs argue that they are crucial to addressing the global food crisis. With a burgeoning population, the demand for food is increasing, and traditional farming methods are no longer sufficient. GMOs can help to increase crop yields and make food production more efficient. Additionally, they argue that the use of GMOs can reduce the need for harmful pesticides and herbicides, which can be detrimental to both the environment and human health. Read more

What Does Saying Grace Actually Accomplish?

September 10, 2023 By Chef John Politte

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But does saying grace actually make the food taste better? Some people believe that it does. There's something about taking a moment to slow down and give thanks that can make us more mindful of the experience of eating. When we're more mindful, we tend to enjoy our food more. So, in a way, saying grace can enhance the eating experience. Of course, not everyone believes in the power of grace. Some people see it as a meaningless ritual, or a way of imposing religion on others. And that's okay. There's no right or wrong way to approach grace. If it's something that resonates with you, then go ahead and say it. If not, then don't. Read more

How to Show Gratitude Through Cooking

September 3, 2023 By Chef John Politte

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Cooking with gratitude can help you slow down and appreciate the beauty in everyday tasks. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and forget to appreciate the little things. Preparing a meal is an opportunity to slow down and be present in the moment. By expressing gratitude for the food we are about to serve, we can cultivate a deeper sense of appreciation for all the blessings in our lives. In my own experience, I lost sight of this in my career in the restaurant industry, but fortunately regained the appreciation for God's intentions with me after I became a chef in the senior living industry. Read more

Tracing Religion’s Journey Along the Spice Routes

August 27, 2023 By Chef John Politte

To understand religions' journey along the spice routes, we need to consider the region and scope of the spice routes. The spice routes were a sea and land trade network between ancient and medieval times. Read more

A Tribute to the Lutheran Church Basement Ladies

August 20, 2023 By Chef John Politte

The first kitchen I worked in, outside of my mother's, was St Paul's Lutheran and Trinity Lutheran church in Leavenworth Kansas. I was lucky enough to go to grade school at one, and then attend church at the other. For reasons unbeknownst to me, I was always on "potluck detail". Read more

What Was the Roman Diet in the Time of Christ?

August 13, 2023 By Chef John Politte

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Food not only provided sustenance but also represented wealth, power, and social status in ancient Rome. The elites of Rome were known for their extravagant banquets, which showcased exotic foods and rare spices from across the empire. However, most of the population had limited access to such luxuries and had to rely on a more basic diet. In this post, I will attempt to explain the Roman diet during the time of Christ and how it reflected the culture and society of the ancient Roman Empire. Read more

Is There a Relationship Between Food and Religions?

August 6, 2023 By Chef John Politte

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Food can also serve as a form of worship in religion, where preparing and consuming it becomes a religious practice. A few examples include these practices by other world religions. In Hinduism, food is deemed sacred, and cooking and preparing it is considered an act of worship. The concept of prasāda, which refers to food offered to deities, is a crucial aspect of Hindu worship. In Islam, fasting during the month of Ramadan is considered a way of worship, where abstaining from food and drink during the day is viewed as a means of purifying the soul. Read more

The Last Supper Menu

July 30, 2023 By Chef John Politte

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Before delving into possible dishes, it is crucial to understand the cultural and culinary context of biblical times. During Jesus' era, meals were often eaten while reclining at low tables with cushions supporting their bodies. The cuisine predominantly consisted of simple ingredients such as bread, fish, fruits, vegetables, and wine. Read more