why buddhist monastics dont eat onions, garlic, leek and radishes?”
East Asian “Buddhist” cuisine differ from Western vegetarian cuisine in one aspect, that is avoidance of killing plant life. Buddhist vinaya for monks and nuns prohibit harming of plant. Therefore, strictly speaking, no root vegetables (such as potatoes, carrots or onion) are to be used as this will result in death of vegetables. Instead, vegetables such as beans or fruits are used. However, this stricter version of diet is often practiced only on special occasion. Some Mahayana Buddhists in China and Vietnam specifically avoid eating strong-smelling plants such as onion, garlic, chives, shallot, and leek, and refer to these as 五荤 ‘Five Acrid And Strong Smelling Vegetables’ or 五辛 ‘Five Spices’ as they tend to excite senses.
