Classic Church Potluck Recipes is a 2022 Gooseberry Patch publication.
I checked this book out of the library on a whim -thinking I might find some olClassic Church Potluck Recipes is a 2022 Gooseberry Patch publication.
I checked this book out of the library on a whim -thinking I might find some older recipes I remembered from the church potlucks I enjoyed as a child- or maybe some dishes my grandmother used to cook.
This cookbook- or compilation of recipes reminds me of the cookbooks I have purchased- or inherited- over the years as part of a church fundraiser. The concept is a simple one: The church members who wish to participate each donate a recipe- in the usual categories- soups, breads, salads, main dishes, desserts, etc. Volunteers organize the cookbook and raise money for teen activities or other equipment the church needs.
These recipe books rarely include photos as the recipes are collected from many different individuals and is not professionally published for sale in bookstores or online. This cookbook is exactly like that. It’s a compilation of recipes donated by different people, from different locations in the United States and Canada.
These recipes are old school- or classic- as the title says- no gluten free- sugar free- fat free recipes- or the mention of the various ways we cook now- microwaves, air fryers, pressure cookers, and all that. Be aware of the ingredients- which might not be a great fit for watching their calories or fat intake….
But…
These recipes scream comfort food, and pleasant feelings of nostalgia, too They are perfect for church potlucks- but also for picnics and family reunions- or smaller gatherings- for clubs or other types of meetings. The ingredients are simple, easy to find, budget conscious, and the recipes are not complicated.
Overall, a nice comforting cookbook that brings back memories. That said, many of the recipes still show up at big family and church gatherings. It would be very easy to substitute ingredients for a healthier version in most cases. Some of my favorite recipes come from the church cookbooks I’ve collected or inherited over the years. They aren’t gourmet with slick color photos- but they are dishes that bring back some of my fondest memories.
The Better Homes and Garden New Cookbook is a 2022 IPG Publishing Licensing publication.
Many, many years ago, I was gifted a Better Homes and Gardens The Better Homes and Garden New Cookbook is a 2022 IPG Publishing Licensing publication.
Many, many years ago, I was gifted a Better Homes and Gardens cookbook for Christmas and of all the cookbooks I have on hand-and of all the Pinterest boards, and internet recipe bookmarks I have for recipes and ‘how to’ advice, the ‘Better Homes’ book is the one I use more than any other. So, I was thrilled to see an updated version had been released and did not hesitate to grab it!
I couldn’t have asked for a better update of my favorite cookbook. There are still immeasurable amounts of useful and historic information, beautiful color pictures, and plenty of up-to-date recipes which include plant-based recipes, for example, and provides various cooking methods one can use, like pressure cooking and slow cooking, sheet pans, and more!
I had a blast looking at the ‘then and now’ comparisons- which could also be humorous at times, and had a pop culture feel to it, which was not only a lesson in history, but entertaining as well.
The recipes are truly meant for the home cook and for everyday use- and offers some ideas on how to take the base recipe and be more creative with it- or make substitutions so that it will work with your personal preferences or diet.
There are so many interesting new dishes alongside the more traditional recipes- there are quick dinners, everyday sides, meatless dishes, soups, salads, sandwiches, meat, fish, poultry, you name it- plus a very handy index!
The Better Homes and Gardens cookbook has the single most helpful cookbook I have ever had- this new addition, though, takes that to a new level.
This is the only practical cookbook you will ever need, most likely and, speaking from experience, it would make a nice gift for Christmas, or a newly married couple, a housewarming- or for anyone who loves to cook… And eat!! ...more
Basic Soups by Marguerite Patten in a 2008 Grub Street Cookery publication.
I picked this book up on a whim from the Overdrive library. Although I makBasic Soups by Marguerite Patten in a 2008 Grub Street Cookery publication.
I picked this book up on a whim from the Overdrive library. Although I make soups all year round, I am more apt to be in the mood to cook a big pot of soup during the winter months, which are almost upon us- so, I was hoping for some tips and tricks, and maybe a few recipes that would mix things up a bit.
I got all that and quite a bit more. The author goes into great detail about how to make the broth or soup stock and all the various meat or vegetable bases one could start with and goes on from there -including soups that are creamy or clear, vegetable, fish, meat, poultry- cold soups, and even fruit soups and soups for those who are dieting. Not only are there recipes, but various methods of cooking are explained, which includes microwave cooking and pressure cooking.
I learned a lot from the text portions and did find some interesting recipes. The huge downside of this informative cookbook is that there are no pictures- not one- front or back.
Overall, this book was very helpful for me when it came to making homemade broths and soup bases. The recipes are mostly simple, and the ingredients are not hard to find, in most cases. I appreciated the variations provided and the notes on how to freeze or not. That said, I’m not sure if I will purchase a copy for future reference, but I did keep it on my 'considering' list- just in case....more
Cooking With Chilies by Clifford Wright is a 2022 Harvard Common Press publication.
I love spicy food! I grew up with spices and rich flavors, then moCooking With Chilies by Clifford Wright is a 2022 Harvard Common Press publication.
I love spicy food! I grew up with spices and rich flavors, then moved to an area with a different blend of spices and I love it all- but as much as I enjoy a little heat in my dishes, my DH believes every dish is supposed to be flavored with hot spices... ...more
The Wok: Recipes and Techniques by J. Kenji López-Alt is a 2022 W.W. Norton Company publication.
Absolutely THE best cookbook I’ve picked up in a longThe Wok: Recipes and Techniques by J. Kenji López-Alt is a 2022 W.W. Norton Company publication.
Absolutely THE best cookbook I’ve picked up in a long time! Kenji is a popular chef and food writer and has a YouTube channel with an astronomical following. This new cookbook, obviously, is centered around recipes and food preparation using the versatile Wok.
This book is packed with mouth-watering recipes- naturally- but the book could also serve as cooking class, it is so chock full of information and lessons on how to use your Wok- such as:
The science behind the way the Wok works, the type of Wok you should buy, how to season your wok, must have knives, spices to keep on hand, how to slice, and seed, vegetables, and in-depth information about ingredients- like MSG and Glutamic acid, the best way to freeze food, and the right oils to use for the best results.
All this fabulous information is packed in between pages and pages of in-depth recipes, which also includes color photographs.
This cookbook is awesome and is one my husband and I will use frequently and refer to often.
The author is so knowledgeable and explains things in such an easy-to-understand manner, it makes this book both fun and informative.
After learning how to use the Wok properly, and following Kenji’s advice, your recipes will be professional quality too!
Overall, this cookbook has a wonderful presentation and layout. I learned so much reading it, and can’t wait to try out these tantalizing recipes!...more
The Farmer’s Wife Cookbook: Over 250 Blue-Ribbon Recipes by Melinda Keefe, Kari Cornell, Jeff McLaughlin (Editor) is a 2022 by Voyageur Press publicatThe Farmer’s Wife Cookbook: Over 250 Blue-Ribbon Recipes by Melinda Keefe, Kari Cornell, Jeff McLaughlin (Editor) is a 2022 by Voyageur Press publication.
The Farmer’s Wife magazine was published independently from 1897-1939.
This cookbook comprises over 250 recipes featured in the magazine. This edition has been updated with a new modern layout and bright colorful pictures- but the recipes are the exact same.
As with any cookbook the recipes are divided into sections-
Salads, Sandwiches, etc. Soups Breakfasts, Breads, etc. Meats and Fish Veggies Sauces Desserts Cookies Cakes Pies Beverages
One would think that recipes dating back to this time period would consist of ingredients we don’t often encounter anymore, but what I found instead, with only a few exceptions, was how basic the recipes were… and simple!! When we think of cooking from scratch in our hectic world, the first think many of us think of is time. Cooking with fresh, home grown, farm fresh ingredients can indeed be more time consuming than grabbing canned goods off the shelf, or a pre-baked pie from the bakery, but I believe many people are returning to the self-made, homegrown, wholesomeness of cooking from scratch.
That said, there are some great ideas for busy lives, even spur of the moment, made from scratch dishes for unexpected events or company. Some of the recipes brought back memories, as I remember my grandmother making some of the pies featured in this book, some of which I hadn’t thought of in ages.
There does seem to be a disproportionate number of sweets in this book- Desserts, cakes, cookies, and pies- all falling into that category, in my opinion, and the beverage section was a bit anemic, but there were some fabulous appetizers and snacks that would be great for entertaining or to make during the holidays, I am definitely going to try right away.
Overall, I loved the historical aspects of the book- with each recipe bearing a timestamp for when it appeared in the magazine. I loved the looking at the pictures and the cute, homey layout is also a nice touch. Anyone will find these recipes helpful and uncomplicated for the most part. This is just good old-fashioned everyday meals that are hearty, fresh, and delicious!!
Field Notes for Food Adventure: Recipes and Stories from the Woods to the Ocean by Brad Leone is a 2021 Voracious/ Little Brown & Co. Publication.
I lField Notes for Food Adventure: Recipes and Stories from the Woods to the Ocean by Brad Leone is a 2021 Voracious/ Little Brown & Co. Publication.
I love recipe books!! Sometimes I just like thumbing through them, looking at the lovely presentations and the unique ways of preparing food, I never would have thought of.
This book grabbed my attention because of the title. I have never seen the YouTube series, but I had an idea the author would introduce me to foods found in specific locations, that were perhaps, off the beaten path.
I thought it would be interesting to see what those unique ingredients and methods of preparation might be- and who knows, I might find something I could try, even if the ingredients were hard to find or didn’t grow in my neck of the woods.
I’m glad I gave the book a chance. As it turns out the author sticks mainly to locations in the Northeast- which is a long way away from me.
Still, I loved the unique adventures, and learned a lot about fermentation, fungus- aka- mushrooms- and maple syrup. I’ll have to take a pass on the squid, though.
This book has some interesting preparation methods, and I thought, as I was looking through it, that this one might be a big draw for those who enjoy fly fishing and hunting.
Truly, I think this book, is quite educational!!
As to finding a work around for these recipes- I would say- absolutely!!
No, I can’t get the ramp onions around here, and no I wouldn’t be able to get the exotic mushrooms, but there is no reason why one couldn’t prepare these dishes using some substitutes common in your region.
The book also made me think about visiting the Northeast someday- and I will have to find the time to check out the author’s YouTube channel- “It’s Alive!”
This is not the typical cookbook, or Recipe book. It has a gorgeous presentation, with vivid color photographs- including photos of the locale, which are incredible!
Overall, this is an enlightening, adventurous book for those who enjoy gathering ingredients in the great outdoors- from the woods and the oceans- as the title states.
Baking for the Holidays- 50+ Treats for a Festive Season by Sarah Kieffer is a 2021 Chronicle Books publication.
Often times, when it comes to holidayBaking for the Holidays- 50+ Treats for a Festive Season by Sarah Kieffer is a 2021 Chronicle Books publication.
Often times, when it comes to holiday baking, though I’m more in my element than with cooking turkeys or hams, or other holiday meal items, I start to stress thinking of the exacting measurements, temperatures, and cooking times, the often-complicated steps and time consumption to pull off an appealing presentation for guests- which is why I normally stick to the tried and true recipes- claiming it’s tradition, when it fact, I’m just too nervous to try something new.
This year, though, I’m in a much different mood. I’m ready to shake things up a little! When I saw this book on Edelweiss, I was hoping to find some new ideas that weren’t terribly expensive or overly complicated.
I was quite pleased by what I saw. As the title states, the book has as a set number of recipes- but there are variations on many of these recipes.
The author begins by giving us a very small glimpse into her background and holiday memories, before moving on to instruct the reader how to perform a few tasks, such as making egg wash and tempering chocolate. There is even a very thoughtful list of the ingredients used, and the suggested brands one should have on hand, as well as tools- mostly basics, like kitchen scissors, thermometers, etc., but there were a few things one might need to consider buying for certain recipes- all easily found on the internet.
The recipes ranged from pastries, breads, holiday desserts, candies, cookies, cakes- and a section for after Christmas treats. All the recipes include color photographs, and the pastry section had detailed instructions on some of the more complicated procedures such as breading dough.
Most recipes were easy to moderate- but there were a few that were fairly involved and might be more time consuming. Many of these recipes can be served anytime- not just during the holidays. I thought the lovely confetti cake would make a nice birthday cake! It was so colorful! There was a small section at the end for ‘extras’ where I found a homemade marshmallow recipe- the mint version, which was paired with hot tea, sounds so yummy!! I can’t wait to try it!
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Overall, if you are looking for a very helpful recipes book devoted to baking- holiday or otherwise, this is one I think you should check out!!...more
Southern Cakes: Sweet and Irresistible Recipes for Everyday Celebrations by Nancie McDermott (Becky Luigart-Stayner (Photographs) is a 2012 Chronicle Southern Cakes: Sweet and Irresistible Recipes for Everyday Celebrations by Nancie McDermott (Becky Luigart-Stayner (Photographs) is a 2012 Chronicle Books publication. (originally published in 2007)
I noticed this cookbook at my library a long while back, struck by the simple cover which reminded me of the coconut cakes my grandmother and mother used to make.
This sounds like a book that was a fun endeavor for the author as she went through recipes for the book which led to fond memories and making connections.
Baking is altogether different from cooking in general- so there is a helpful ‘how to section’ and a list of helpful kitchen tools.
The book is a little heavy on various flavors and styles of pound cakes and coconut cakes. There are familiar recipes and some I’d never heard of – like Tomato soup cake and chocolate mayonnaise cake.
The recipes for the icing or frostings are included with each cake recipe- but there is also a helpful section just for the cake toppings.
Most of the ingredients are common, some may be seasonal or unique to southern areas- but I don’t think there was anything listed that was so exotic one couldn’t locate it online, if nothing else. The instructions are clear and easy to follow. Some are very basic and easy, some more complicated and time consuming. However, as the title suggests, these recipes are just right for everyday celebrations.
I have a digital copy of this book, which is a little plain. There are pictures, but not one for every recipe and they are not much bigger than a thumbnail in some cases. The presentation may be different in the print version.
There are some internet links in the back of the book- but it should be noted that this is an older book and some of those links are no longer viable.
Although I felt like was having a virtual sugar rush and might have gained ten pounds just browsing through the book- it did bring back a few memories for me too, and I am happy to see these nice southern cake recipes compiled in one book!
A Literary Holiday Cookbook: Festive Meals for the Snow Queen, Gandalf, Sherlock, Scrooge, and Book Lovers Everywhere by Alison Walsh is a 2020 SkyhorA Literary Holiday Cookbook: Festive Meals for the Snow Queen, Gandalf, Sherlock, Scrooge, and Book Lovers Everywhere by Alison Walsh is a 2020 Skyhorse publication.
Every year, as the holidays descend, I cringe at the thought- but the one thing I look forward to is the food. We tend to indulge in many dishes, drinks, and desserts during the months of November- January that is seldom served outside of the holidays.
As much as I appreciate the variety of traditions we enjoy now, I have often been fascinated by the various holiday feasts depicted in books and movies.
That is why, when I came across this book, I knew I had to check it out. I thought it might be fun to re-create the holiday scenes in some of my favorite books, plus, it might be a creative way to liven up one’s holiday feast- and maybe lead to a few fun, lively- and safe- socially distant- conversations.
While the cover of the book suggests the recipes are those featured in Christmas themed novels exclusively, to my great delight, I found the book also included recipes for Thanksgiving, Halloween, and New Year’s. There is also a gift giving section at the end of the book, along with references, a conversion chart, and an index.
Each book featured has a menu, and every recipe has a photo of the finished product, a quote from the book the recipe was featured in, or inspired by, the ingredients, and instructions.
I didn’t find any recipes that called for super hard to find ingredients, and the instructions, are thorough enough, and easy to follow.
I thought this collection of literary themed menus and recipes was a great idea!! While most of the recipes come from classic novels, they will seem fresh to us because they are not as common. There are also many fun party foods, especially the ones for Halloween, although many of these were not actually featured in the book- such as Dracula’s Dinner Rolls, for example.
The presentation is simple, straightforward, and organized and has given me plenty of ideas to try all throughout the holiday season- plus, it was fun to reminisce about the books these recipes were derived from.
Not only did I find these recipes tempting- I was also tempted to re-read some of these great classics and add those I have yet to enjoy!
Salad Samurai by Terry Hope Romero is a 2014 De Capo publication.
Naturally, when we hear the word ‘Salad’, the first thing many of us think of, is thSalad Samurai by Terry Hope Romero is a 2014 De Capo publication.
Naturally, when we hear the word ‘Salad’, the first thing many of us think of, is that small ‘dinner salad’ we have on the side or that might serve as an appetizer- which is about as boring as boring can be. Seldom do we think of having a salad as a main course- or refer to a salad as being ‘hearty’.
This cookbook, however, will change your entire perceptions of salads. While these recipes apply to the vegan diet, anyone can find a recipe they will want to try. Not only that, there are fresh ideas for homemade dressings, and plenty of hints and tips as well, and color photos of the recipes.
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The salads are organized by seasons, which makes sense to me. Various fresh ingredients are not in season year -round. My moods change with the seasons as well. Summertime has me reaching for more fruits and lighter meals, while in the winter I long for something warmer and a little heavier.
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The ease of preparation varies, and the ingredients were not ones I can readily obtain here in Podunk, Texas. However, once can always use these recipes to prompt your own imagination by adding, leaving out, or substituting ingredients that work best for you.
One thing is for sure, though- after reading through this book, you will never think of salads as boring again!!...more
All About Dinner by Molly Stevens is a 2019 W.W. Norton Company publication.
Who hasn’t, at some point, become frustrated when it comes to deciding whAll About Dinner by Molly Stevens is a 2019 W.W. Norton Company publication.
Who hasn’t, at some point, become frustrated when it comes to deciding what to cook for dinner? We want something fresh, original, healthy, easy, and delicious- but that is often easier said than done. We may want to try something new but may feel intimidated by the prospect. Dinner shouldn’t be so stressful!
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Molly Stevens not only provides numerous menu choices, using everyday ingredients, but also gives the book an upbeat presentation, adding many priceless cooking tips along the way. So, relax! Put dinner into perspective with this beautiful and immeasurably helpful guide to healthy, delicious meals!
This book is very easy to follow, with colorful photos, organized into the usual categories.
The Bad Hair Day Cookbook by Nancy J. Cohen is a 2019 Orange Grove Press publication.
This is a fantastic idea for cozy mystery fans
Cozy mystery readeThe Bad Hair Day Cookbook by Nancy J. Cohen is a 2019 Orange Grove Press publication.
This is a fantastic idea for cozy mystery fans
Cozy mystery readers often find a handful of recipes at the end of a book, a nice added bonus, whether it’s a culinary themed mystery, or not.
Occasionally, I do remember to jot down a recipe I find in a book, but often times I’ll shove the book back on my shelf after I’ve finished reading it, thinking that if I need the recipe again, I can always look it back up.
But I also read books from subscription services and from the library, and I usually forget to copy the recipe down before I return it. It then becomes impossible for me to remember which recipe was in what book.
I would imagine many readers have that same problem, so having the author thoughtfully compile all the recipes featured in their cozy mystery series in one place is genius!
The author reminds readers of the book certain recipes were featured in, and provides a brief overview of that book, so fans of the series can recall their favorite stories, too.
For those who are unfamiliar with the series, this book will make you want to get to know Marla Shore Vail and acquaint yourselves with this series while enjoying 'Marla's' wonderful, down to earth and comforting recipes.
This is a no- frills cookbook, and my pre-release, ARC copy did not come with pictures. However, these recipes are very easy to follow, with common ingredients one can usually find at their local supermarket- under normal circumstances, that is. Mainly, this is a book for fans of the series, and is a great marketing tool, I’d like to see catch on with other cozy authors.
The recipes are organized into sections, like most cookbooks, beginning with appetizers and ending with desserts and includes ‘Themed Menus’ as well. It should be noted that there are no pork recipes out of respect for Marla’s Kosher kitchen upbringing.
Overall, This book will be a huge help for cozy mystery fans who will find it so very helpful to have all the recipes featured in the ‘Bad Hair Day’ series all together in one book, as well as an easy reference to the books in the series, with a buy link included for convenience.
I admit I’ve only read one book in this series, but after reading through this recipe book and getting to know a little more about Marla, I’m looking forward to reading through this series, starting at the beginning and working my way up.
Epic Air Fryer Cookbook by Emily Paster is a Harvard Common Press publication.
Fresh, Fun, and Easy!
I got an air fryer for Christmas last year and n Epic Air Fryer Cookbook by Emily Paster is a Harvard Common Press publication.
Fresh, Fun, and Easy!
I got an air fryer for Christmas last year and now I wonder what how I ever survived without one. I’m always looking for new and fresh recipes to try out and am especially interested in ones that are unique to air fryers specifically. This cookbook, as promised, has one hundred recipes, divided into the usual sections one expects to find in a typical cookbook.
Included are:
Breakfast foods Party Foods and Appetizers Vegetarian meals Main Courses with Poultry, meat and seafood Side dishes Deserts
As you will discover, the air fryer is not just for traditional ‘frying’ but also works like a convection oven. I have tried one or two air fryer cookbooks right after I first got my fryer, which got me off to a good start, while I acclimated myself to the device.
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This book is a nice addition to my growing collection! I’d never even thought about trying some of these recipes in the air fryer!! It really is very versatile and a much healthier choice. In fact, we had given up on some favorite foods because of the health risk, but now we can enjoy them again in moderation.
One recipe included was for fried green tomatoes- which was timely for me. We just experienced our first freeze of the season and I still had tomatoes on the vine in my garden- all still very green. So, I had already planned on looking up a recipe for FGT- and now I have one I can use in my air fryer- guilt free!
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The other recipe I tried was the Baja Fish Tacos mainly because I had many of the ingredients on hand and was in the mood for fish.
Overall, this is an exceptional air fryer cookbook. If you have an air fryer or are thinking about buying one for yourself or someone else, be sure to pick up this cookbook to go along with it. There are color photos included, and most recipes are very easy to make and do not require hard to find spices or ingredients.
A Feast of Serendib by Mary Anne Mohanraj is a 2019 Serendib Press publication.
This is a wonderful and colorful cookbook featuring recipes featuring sA Feast of Serendib by Mary Anne Mohanraj is a 2019 Serendib Press publication.
This is a wonderful and colorful cookbook featuring recipes featuring several geographical blends, but is mainly based in Sri Lanka. The recipes are eclectic, exotic, yet simple.
Naturally the author began with a brief lesson on the spices one will want to have on hand. Once more I was struck by how many of these spices are also frequently used here in Texas and are quite easy to find at my local supermarket- no special trips out of town or ordering online. The author included a recipe for making homemade curry, something I found interesting, since many store -bought curries look good, but are lacking in flavor.
There are menu suggestions, perfect for those who entertain or are hosting a dinner party. From there the cookbook is organized in much the same way as most cookbooks-
Appetizers and snacks Main dishes Side dishes and salads Grains Cocktails and Drinks Sweets
This cookbook is heavy on curry dishes, which is fine with me, since I love, love, love curry- almost to the point of addiction. Some of the vegetable curried recipes are very basic, but super delicious. Other recipes are little more complicated and require a bit of prep time.
I must say I’ve never encountered any recipes quite like the ones in this cookbook. It’s an interesting marriage of flavors. Once more I found a few recipes that will spice up my summer garden vegetables, which is something I am always on the look out for. This is especially true for eggplant and okra, two vegetables I run out of fresh recipes for.
Overall, this is a very interesting cookbook. I found the appetizer and snack section and the vegetable, accompaniments, spices and sauces information the most helpful for my needs.
I had high hopes for this one. Unfortunately, my location makes it almost impossible to locate many of the fresh ingredients, even online. The recipesI had high hopes for this one. Unfortunately, my location makes it almost impossible to locate many of the fresh ingredients, even online. The recipes look beautiful, authentic, and flavorful with a variety of recipes in different categories and includes color photos. I did enjoy looking through the book, though, and learning more about Korean foods. ...more
Turnip Greens & Tortillas by Eddie Hernandez and Susan Puckett is a 2018 Rux Martin/Houghton Mifflin Harcourt publication.
I was growing turnip greenTurnip Greens & Tortillas by Eddie Hernandez and Susan Puckett is a 2018 Rux Martin/Houghton Mifflin Harcourt publication.
I was growing turnip greens in my summer garden and of course I’m always looking for fresh ideas on how to prepare them. But, when I saw this cookbook I did a double take. Turnip greens and tortillas?
As it turns out there is a really funny story about how this author was introduced to turnip greens and the creative way he decided to cook them- Mexican style. His idea was a huge hit and he’s been giving southern foods a Mexican flair ever since.
I spent my formative years in the deep south, then lived in various places until I eventually settled down in Texas, where Mexican food is very, very popular. So, the idea of combining traditional southern foods with traditional Mexican foods isn’t all that far -fetched of an idea. In fact, I'm wondering why we haven't been doing this all along!!
But, while there are many hybrid dishes, I seldom see anyone stray too far off course, especially in restaurants. Many people get hung up on traditions, refusing to modify a beloved recipe or dish. But, by marrying some foods together could start a whole new tradition, plus it’s fun to experiment!
Eddie is a guy after my own heart. He’s not afraid to take chances and is very creative with his food. But, he’s also very down to earth. He doesn’t use a lot of exotic ingredients, likes to keep things affordable, and even incorporates homegrown foods into his recipes. This is comfort food, Mexican style.
The cookbook is organized by all the usual categories we expect to find. There is a very large section of breakfast recipes, dips, tacos, soups, salsas, desserts and beverages. My favorite section though was Eddie’s Blue Plate Lunches and Special Suppers. Living in Texas, BBQ is a big deal too, and I know I’m going to love trying out Eddie’s BBQ sauces and recipes.
I love it when a chef steps outside the box! There’s nothing wrong with sticking with the traditional preparations of the southern or Mexican foods you love, but it’s also great to try out variations on those recipes. By expanding these recipes, food can play a part in blending cultures and bringing people together by sharing great food with good company. Eddie’s respect for both Southern and Mexican cuisine has paid off for him. This cookbook is a fine example of the many creations he’s invented, his culinary imaginations apparently knowing no bounds. There are so many new recipes in the book I never would have thought to try out, so now I have many fresh and exciting dishes to try out! Should be a lot of fun!
The Complete Vegetarian Cookbook by America's Test Kitchen is a very comprehensive cookbook, perfect for those who are relatively new to cooking, or tThe Complete Vegetarian Cookbook by America's Test Kitchen is a very comprehensive cookbook, perfect for those who are relatively new to cooking, or to the vegetarian lifestyle.
There is a 'how to' section which explains the best instruments to use when slicing or dicing, and which direction to cut, etc. Great tips, even for experienced cooks, but I did skim through most of these sections in my eagerness to look at all the mouth watering recipes.
When it comes to recipes, the book really is 'complete', as it covers every category imaginable, offering vegetarian staples as well as more involved and unique dishes. I checked this one out of the library, but I've decided it is worth buying, mainly because I think I'd refer back to often and would use it on a regular basis. This cookbook would also make a great gift!
This book is chock full of helpful tips and advice- such as, how to avoid watery salsa. There is an explanation for why each recipe works, with detailed instructions on how to chop, dice, seed, core or remove husks using color pictures along with the written instructions.
There is a master recipe listing as well as a conversion chart, and eleven separate sections. This is a well organized and very informative cookbook!! As I said earlier, this is a book beginners will really find helpful, but, even if you are well versed in how to prep or prepare foods for cooking, this is still a cookbook I'd want on my shelf. Not only does it cover all the basics, it offers a great many insider tips and tricks, and would serve as a great reference guide.
Love Real Food: More Than 100 Feel-Good Vegetarian Favorites to Delight the Senses and Nourish the Body by Kathryne Taylor is a 2017 Rodale Books publLove Real Food: More Than 100 Feel-Good Vegetarian Favorites to Delight the Senses and Nourish the Body by Kathryne Taylor is a 2017 Rodale Books publication.
This vegetarian cookbook has an eye-catching cover which encouraged me to take a look inside. I love vegetables and even as a kid growing up in the deep south, where meat and potatoes was the staple at most dinner tables, I was never a big fan of the meat. However, I ate double helpings of nearly all the vegetables most other kids vehemently refused to try.
My husband, on the other hand, embraced the meat and potatoes diet, which has remained hardwired in his brain all these years. There is no way on earth I will ever get him to embrace a strict vegetarian diet. However, as we have gotten older, and are enjoying having our own vegetable garden, I am slowly convincing my husband to significantly lower his consumption of meat. He loves to cook and so I’m doing my part by introducing him to more whole food recipes and more creative ways to have a hearty meal, that is as tasty as it is healthy.
This cookbook gave me some fantastic ideas and I was happy to see so many zesty, tangy, spicy recipes all included in one book. Since we live a in a very small town, with only two supermarkets, I am often frustrated by recipe books which feature difficult to find ingredients. There were only a handful of recipes that called for items I knew I couldn’t find locally. However, the author always included a variety of ways to mix the recipes up, which will also help keep basic recipes fresh and inviting.
This book has a fantastic selection of breakfast ideas, as well as a section to satisfy that sweet tooth. Drinks, salads, dressings, soups are included as well, but there are also a few ‘heavier’ meal ideas as well. I found the cookbook to be well organized with bright color photos and easy to follow instructions.
Occasionally, a recipe will require a longer prep time, but for the most part all these recipes are easy to make and puts a fresh spin on the usual preparation of vegetables, and the use of fruits, adding inventive ways to include whole foods to your diet.
So far, I have made one of the salad dressings and one of the pasta dishes which was fantastic!! My husband enjoyed it as well, and he didn’t even miss the meat!!
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