Gauteng, South Africa -- One of the most interesting cookbooks to come out of South Africa this year, this is a collection of recipes, images and anecdotes produced by the Ixopo Buddhist Retreat Centre, which is renowned for the fine vegetarian food it has been serving for over 25 years.

This excellent publication makes for good bedtime reading too, with a culinary journey into the ethos of Buddhism.

The recipes have appeal like "Buddha's treasure", which is layers of vegetable and pasta, and the "Happy Harvest Pie", with a host of wholesome ingredients.

Hitting the high notes is a relish that prickles the tastebuds, a delicious sunny carrot cake recipe and the secret to their divine daily hot bread.