How to ignite spiritual hunger
A guide for eating during the Lenten Season
During the Lenten season, the devout show penance for the Lord’s sacrifice on the cross through fasting and abstinence. Fasting often requires Catholics to eat only one full meal throughout the day. Abstinence means avoiding meat or any type of indulgent food one would normally enjoy. Here are popular alternatives for Catholics to eat when observing fasting and abstinence.
Fish
Fish is the top choice for most Filipinos during the Lenten season. It makes for an easy choice due to how accessible seafood is in our country. Plus, fish meat has more than enough nutrietns to keep us strong throughout the day.
Eggs
Eggs are an excellent choice for an alternative meal during the Lenten season. There are several ways to prepare eggs so that you don’t lose interest. Have it fried sunny side up, scrambled, boiled, or poached. It can also be paired with noodles, rice, or bread.*
Bread
In Catholicism, bread and wine are consumed during mass as it is meant to symbolize the body and blood of Jesus Christ. During the Last Supper, Jesus broke bread and referred to it as his body, which will be broken in sacrifice during his crucifixion. It’s only fitting then that bread be used as an alternative meal during Lent.
Enjoy it as a plain toast or create a simple sandwich, but keep it light and healthy.
Salad
Vegetables are another go-to option during the Holy Week. Mix things up by creating different sorts of salads. Think potato salad, Caesar salad, macaroni salad, and so on. Don’t be afraid to mix and match veggies and fruits as you please.
Pasta
A simple pasta dish could go a long way. All you need is your noodles of choice and your choice of sauce. For the easiest meal, have a go with a Japanese favorite, Naporitan pasta. In its simplest form, it’s spaghetti noodles mixed with tomato ketchup.
‘Our tongue wants what tastes good to it, not what is good for us. Hunger is by far the best spice.’