Top 3 indulgent cookbooks, May 2008

(Note to self -I really need to do this more often!)

This week's books are so different from each other that you will wonder why I selected them. One simple reason-€“ they are luscious. Filled to the brim with flavors that will make you want to run to the nearest store and stock up so you can cook, each one of these books is nothing short of indulgent. Whether you cook in the kitchen or love to read books in your armchair, this week's selections will make you hungry. Trust me on that.

1. Blue Eggs and Yellow Tomatoes: Recipes from the Modern Kitchen Garden by Jeanne Kelly - You know the saying, “Never judge a book by the cover”? Well, this book is one that that defies that saying and succeeds. A gorgeous cover with promises of spring opens to reveal a spectacular collection of recipes by an obviously talented author. Ms. Kelly’s recipes are so inviting – as I read through the book, I kept thinking- I should make that this week, oh and that one on Sunday, oh and that when Janet comes over. The recipes are inviting not only because of the gorgeous pictures but also because they offer simple ingredient lists and the instructions are clear and easy to follow.   In particular, the Hummus with Jalapeno-Cilantro pesto, Black beans with orange and chipotle, and Asparagus and peas with green garlic – YUM. All this and desserts too! You simply will not go wrong with this book. I think it is also a perfect mom’s day gift.
2. Mantra – The Rules of Indulgence by Jehangir Mehta – If you have ever wanted to see behind the scenes of how an innovative, genius chef works, get this book NOW. The understated cover under-promises what lies inside – a treasure trove of new flavors – Jasmine glazed doughnuts, Chamomile Macaroons, Dill Ice-cream, Aloe-Chestnut Consommé and Cucumber water! Even the layout is different – the sections are not your standard – Appetizer, entrees etc but are divided into – Flowers, Fruits/Vegetables/Roots/Bulbous Stalks/Rhizomes and Leaves/Herbs/Spices. I have to confess, after reading the book, I made plans to head to NYC next month and visit this chef’s restaurant. If he creates this well on paper, I really want to see and taste what he does in person. (PS – I think this book is not for the beginner.
3. 660 Curries by Raghavan Iyer -  I have always enjoyed Raghavan’s books so when this one came out, I ordered it right away. It lives up to its promise to be extensive and very intense! This book will make you rethink the word and concept of “curry.” Yes, there are traditional dishes like Mangalorean Chicken Curry with tamarind and coconut milk, Slow cooked creamy black lentils with whole spices and Eggplant with roasted chiles and tomatoes. But, ah, there is so much more – Cashew stuffed baby eggplant, Eggplant with apples and fennel, Unripe mango with pigeon peas, Cauliflower and spinach in a black-pepper-coconut milk sauce.. I could go on and on, there are over 600 recipes in this collection (as the title suggests.) Oh and for the lovers of Bend it Like Beckham, there is a lovely recipe for “Bolly Cauli” the cauliflower dish the heroine of the movie is, um, forced to make! It is an in-depth, practical and highly comprehensive book. Bravo!

To all three authors --€“ here is an open invitation. Come to DC and cook for us! I would love to host a book signing for your indulgent cookbooks. Well-done!