Sikhism is an Eastern religion that originated in India. The Sikh religion promotes living in harmony and spending time each day in prayer and meditation. Dietary practices emphasize healthy living, simple foods and avoidance of gluttony. The Sikh diet shares many similarities with the Hindu diet, which is not surprising since both emanate from India. Some Sikhs practice strict vegetarianism, while others eat some meat.
Simple Foods
Sikh beliefs emphasize a focus on God. Other things, such as the preparation of elaborate meals, should not detract from prayer and meditation. Vegetables, beans and rice play an important role in the diet. Wheat breads, either fried or baked, known as roti, chapatti or phulka, are common accompaniments to every meal. Sabzi, or cooked vegetables, and daal, a stew made from dried lentils, beans or peas, are also popular. Common vegetables include carrots, okra, cauliflower, peas, potatoes, turnips, eggplant, spinach and carrots, stewed and seasoned with peppers, onions, turmeric or curry.
Meat and Dairy
While many Sikhs practice vegetarianism, some Sikhs do eat meat. Those Sikhs who practice vegetarianism view meat as unhealthy or as inhibiting to meditation. Sikhs who eat meat may see all food as being equal. Paneer, or cheese cubes, are a popular protein addition to meals for those who don't eat meat. Yogurt is also an important ingredient in many dishes.
Langars
Sikh temples operate kitchens known as langars. These kitchens, staffed by volunteers, prepare and serve meals free to all comers. Sikh and non-Sikh diners are welcome to partake of these meals and everyone is treated equally. The meals are vegetarian, so as not to offend vegetarian Sikhs or Hindus who may join in the meals. A typical meal may be lentil stew and hot chapatti bread. Preparing food, cleaning dishes and serving at the langar are requirements for faithful Sikhs.
Other
Sikhs do not smoke, drink alcohol or use drugs. They are supposed to refrain from gluttony and from unhealthy habits and foods. Fasting is not part of the Sikh religion, which frowns on ritual and superstition. As with any religion, some Sikhs are more conservative in their practices, while others are more liberal.
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