Year of Russian Feasts

I've been interested in all things Russia since adopting my son two years ago from the Voronezh region, and this book has helped to keep that interest going. It's not just a basic cookbook, but more a travelogue and cultural history with recipes added in. I like how the author explains social and family traditions along with her seasonal exploration of Russian food. After all, our special foods aren't made and consumed in a vacuum - tradition and custom dictate many of our special menus. If you read this book you will get a better understanding of how and why the Russians do what they do. It makes me wish I'd tried harder to eat real Russian food when I was there.

Jones's memoir-cookbook takes the reader on a personal journey to Russia, the land of Jones's ancestors. It's full of interesting stories about the people she encountered there, with a focus on culinary topics. Each chapter deals with a single theme: springtime in Russia, tea and birthday parties, home-canning, mushroom hunting, weddings, Christmas and New Year's celebrations--all from the personal perspective of the author and her experiences in Russia. The 40 recipes she includes are accurate and can be easily reproduced in American home kitchens. A "must-buy" book for anyone interested in Russian cuisine.

Catherine not only captures the essence of the food, but also gives us a most intimate glance into the country, it's culture, and it's people. Living there for a time and having a Russian mother (and grandmother) on hand has given her an edge that almost no one else can duplicate! Her descriptions are interesting, the recipes are clear and easy to follow, and the insights and traditions on the food are priceless, making it an absolute "must" for the serious "foodie."

I found this book very calming and reasuring in these troubled times. The book is a soothing escape from the exterior modern world to that of our culture, our food and our entertaining--no matter what our heritage. A great glimpse into the lives of everyday Russians through their food. The recipes are simply written with readily available ingredients. Steep a cup of tea, put your feet up and enjoy!

I was enticed to buy this book by its cover. It is, however, more than just a beautiful cover! I love to "read" recipes and this one has the added plus of a story with the recipes. Ms. Jones' writing style is warm and intimate. I felt as though she was personally telling me her story. For dinner tonight I made the Cabbage Salad and plan on making the Russian Cream with a Berry Sauce for guests later this week. I believe that is the perfect endorsement of this wonderful, readable book!