Joy Meadow Cookbook: Recipes to Nourish the Body, Mind & Spirit

"A way to the heart is through the stomach..." At face value, Valencia Chan discloses her secrets to very yummy dishes from her wonderful Chinese restaurant, Joy Meadow, in Redwood City, CA. However, she also shares herself and her experiences, thereby adding a soulful dimension to the cookbook. As I read, I felt my spirits (and my appetite) lifted up! I enjoyed "Like Water for Chocolate" and relished the sensuous words. I read "Joy Meadow Cookbook" and fed my spirit--I felt so much peace and inspiration. The tips for joyful/mindful living are as easy to follow as the recipes. "Window to the soul..." My favorite dishes are Journey to India (a delightful chicken curry), Bag of Fortune, Vegetarian Samosas and Starfire Chicken. The photos are wonderful: if you can believe it, the dishes taste better than the pictures and the photos convey the tranquil atmosphere of the place. "If you build it, they will come..." Valencia Chan has created a living sanctuary in Redwood City for the body, mind and spirit. Thank you!

I love the unique blend of healthy, Chinese food that is Joy Meadow Restaurant's signature. I looked forward to their cookbook and it is now thankfully out. It is a work of art combining beautiful photos of the food entrees as well as Valencia Chan's spiritual wisdom and philosophy. It written in a very uplifting style starting with a brief history of her restaurant, bookstore and seminar center. She has created a beautiful sanctuary complete with a Koi pond that truly nourishes your mind, body and spirit. The cookbook is written in an easy to use style with many photos. The recipes include both vegetarian and meat dishes. My favorite dish, Midsummer Night's Dream - a walnut and vegetable entree - is given clear step by step recipe instructions. Other dishes include Golden Chalice, eggplant stuffed with vegetables in a marinara sauce, as well as Pisces Moon, a delicious prawn and vegetable dish. The entrees are original and tasty. This is a fusion cuisine that goes way beyond traditional Chinese cooking. I recommend this cookbook highly to anyone interested in easy-to-prepare, healthy and innovative eating!