Catch the Last Perfume of Summer

Summary

The website content discusses a Japanese kaiseki dinner, emphasizing the significance of the middle course that embodies the "3 virtues, 6 tastes, and 8 inches" philosophy, reflecting the essence of seasonal flavors and wellness in Japanese cuisine.

Abstract

The article titled "Catch the Last Perfume of Summer" delves into the intricacies of a Japanese kaiseki dinner, highlighting the middle course served on a lotus-themed mini-stage. The course is designed to represent the six essential tastes—plain/light, sour, spicy, salty, bitter, and sweet—through 12 assorted bite-sized delicacies for two diners. The author reflects on the artistry and symbolism of the presentation, drawing connections to Buddhist beliefs and the changing seasons. The piece underscores the importance of wellness practices in the culinary arts, noting that the flavors are not only for enjoyment but also for the mental and physical health of the diners, as inspired by the dietary practices of Buddhist monks. The author also touches upon the "8 inches" theory, which relates to the discipline and elegance of consuming these bites with chopsticks.

Opinions

The author perceives the kaiseki dinner as an art form, noting the unmistakable art element in the presentation of the food.
The author suggests that the lotus in the presentation may symbolize enlightenment and is reflective of the lotus ponds often found near shrines and temples in Japan.
The author believes that the kaiseki menu, with its roots in Buddhist beliefs, offers a gourmet journey that encourages contemplation of the seasons.
The author emphasizes that the flavors in the kaiseki course are not arbitrary but are specifically chosen to align with wellness practices, which are crucial for both monks and laypeople.
The author posits that the "8 inches" theory, while originally referring to chopstick length, is indicative of the discipline, elegance, and efficacy expected in the consumption of the kaiseki meal.
The author opines that the role of the chef extends beyond mere sustenance, as they are responsible for ensuring that every bite is enjoyable to prevent monotony, even in the ascetic life of a monk.

A fun treasure hunt beneath blooms and fronds

Two weeks ago my husband and I celebrated a summer send-off with a Japanese kaiseki dinner. Halfway through the elegant 10-course menu, one course of 12 assorted bite-sized delicacies for 2 diners — exemplifying the 6 essential tastes — presented themselves in a stunning lotus mini-stage.

The art element was unmistakable.

We surreptitiously lifted the tempting goodies beneath the blooms and fronds. Did lotus mean enlightenment? Lotus ponds find themselves near shrines and temples in Japan. Did we contemplate the seasons while on a gourmet journey?

A moment ago, our server explained the course with the season’s 6 flavor ingredients on a traditional 8-inch square tray:

plain/light, sour, spicy, salty, bitter, and sweet

That’s right. The flavors of life.

…These represent the “3 virtues, 6 tastes, and 8 inches”(三德六味~八寸)¹ in…the elaborate…Japanese kaiseki menu (懷石料理) with humble origins in Buddhist beliefs.

Flavors function specifically in wellness practices (I wrote about this previously). I wondered if these mini bites were different from the January kaiseki dinner we had, celebrating a different festive occasion. They were.

For summer end, Chef chose clams, sea salt, sudaci (Japanese yuzu), wasabi root (Japanese radish), mushrooms, and wasanbon (a fine-grained Japanese light-golden sugar) to bring out the 6 essential tastes.

Think that’s it? Then there’s the “8 inches” theory (1 Japanese inch = 3.03 cm), which originally referred to the length of chopsticks (these have since developed into varied lengths). It’s about discipline, elegance, and efficacy. How we consume these bites is crucial too.

If you're still wondering…

Why do self-disciplined Buddhist monks brand the 6 tastes essential for wellness? Supreme cooks for these monks live it inside out. This wellness concept is worth some thought for common mortals too, not just those in monasteries. …

What? Self-deprecating monks are supposed to eat mouthwatering mouthfuls too? Yes. The cooks are responsible for the monks’ mental and physical well-being and longevity. That involves making every bite not only palatable but enjoyable, so the monks don’t get bored. I know, strange to relate a monk’s spartan life to a sumptuous dinner. Hear me out.

I haven’t dragged you here to tell you salt is salty. Each of the 6 tastes comes with a philosophy and/or a correlation with traditional Chinese wellness theories. This concept, derived centuries ago, traveled to Japan eventually with Buddhism. ~ Seu. Complete Story

Summer exits in style. Cooler season tangos.

micropoetry/essay/culinary poetics

Catch the Last Perfume of Summer

The middle course in Japanese kaiseki dinner

A fun treasure hunt beneath blooms and fronds

6 Essential Tastes that Make You Wonder

Wellness in Japanese cuisine