A review of The Blooming Platter Cookbook by Betsy Dijulio, contributed by Bryanna Clark Grogan: Betsy's writing makes one feel that a good friend is writing to one, sharing special recipes and sometimes the stories behind her inspiration.
Reading statements such as: "...I have been consumed by what I like to call intense 'investigative' home-cooking and entertaining - fueled by the advent of the food networks - ultimately leading to part-time free-lance food writing and a bit of teaching. I remain an 'independent study' student of all things culinary." and "For as long as I can remember, food has been the blaze that marked the path of my life.", as well as her preference for soy milk, make me feel sure that Betsy is a "kindred spirit" (as Anne Shirley of Green Gables fame was wont to say).
My overall impression after studying the book is that it is the work of a curious, inventive, creative, and discerning cook, whose sometimes rather unusual combinations of fruits, vegetables and herbs, and savory and sweet ingredients in the same recipe, are not only spot-on, but inspire quite a few "why didn't I think of that?" moments. Even without the lovely photos, one would find the recipes colorful and balanced, evidence of Betsy's artistic nature (she is a practicing artist and an art teacher).
Consider Creamy Summer Torta with Figs, with its savory, herbal vegan cheese filling and Balsamic reduction; or the startling Beet Muhammara (the Turkish spread usually made with red peppers, here replaced by beets, walnuts, garlic, spices and pomegranate molasses); Blackberry and Corn Salad; Butternut Squash Bisque with Cranberry Gremolata; Curried Red-Lentil "Cheesecake" with Tamarind Sauce, to name but a few on my list of "got to make this" recipes. All I can say is, "Bravo, Betsy!"
(Oh, and by the way, there are a fair number of "basic" recipes in the book which you will probably want to use often in your own recipes, too-White Bean Sausages, at least four homemade vegan cheeses, and Blue Cheese Sauce.)
You're going to find many recipes in The Blooming Platter Cookbook* that will surely send you into the kitchen on a colorful culinary adventure-perhaps not the same recipes that call to me, but, believe me, there's something for everyone in this lovely, delectable, and eminently usable vegan cookbook. Enjoy!
A pair of recipes from this book here on vegkitchen:
Read more of VegKitchen's book reviews.
*This post contains affiliate links. If the product is purchased by linking through this review, VegKitchen receives a modest commission, which helps maintain our site and helps it to continue growing!
Comments
No Comments