Faith in Food

5-part series 26 minutes each, filmed in Iran, Germany, USA, India and Japan.

The way we eat has always been determined by religious dietary rules and traditions. Author Catharina Kleber explores how religion has shaped cuisine in five different regions of the world.

From the kosher laws that govern Jewish cooking to the strict taboos and purity rules of Islam, religious practices play a major role in many people’s daily lives. The way we eat and come together for meals is an important part of our identity.

In New York City, kosher laws are paramount for people of the Jewish faith and have shaped the city’s diverse food culture for non-believers as well.

In Iran, the Islamic faith determines the eating habits of its followers. But here there are also people who prefer to keep alive the traditions of ancient Persian culture.

In Japan, people smile when it is claimed that Buddhism has an influence. Yet there is a shrine in every household and daily life is characterized by a deeply religious worldview.

In Germany, the relaxed atmosphere in a monastery is surprising. In Spain, people sacrifice themselves for Christ, and in between there is lively celebration to fortify themselves.

In the hustle and bustle of India’s megacities, it is sometimes difficult to tell where Hinduism ends as a religion and begins as a geographical designation.

The five journeys are an exploration of the most delicious way of praising the gods in the world.

Commissioned by ZDF
in collaboration with ARTE
supported by MFG Filmförderung Baden-Württemberg