rebecca's pocket

This is a remarkable book. It's aim is to create a comprehensive resource of Jewish cooking, which means European, Middle Eastern, African, and Indian cooking.

The recipes, which include detailed instuctions for techniques which may be unfamiliar to the cook, are accompanied by historical and cultural notes, and the book includes many maps showing the spread of dishes from their origins to the rest of the world. Unfortunately, the two recipes I've tried so far left me cold. This may be me, or it may be my choice of recipes, or it may be the book. After I've tried more of the recipes, I'll decide whether or not to recommend it as a cookbook. As a cultural document, I think it is outstanding. [ 02.18.06 ]