Madhur Jaffrey's Flavors of India

As a child of Bengali parents, [indian] food has always been the norm for me. So, after I left for college with day after day of pizza and top ramen, I found myself absolutely craving my mother's cooking which I couldn't have due to the 2,000 miles that separated us. To remedy the situation, my mother sent me this book and I swear by it! The majority of the recipes that I have tried have become regulars in my repertoire, but I do warn you that they do take some time and skill.(Try the Bhopali Pilaf w/o peas and carrots, it rocks!!)

When I became fascinated with Indian foods, this is one of the first books I picked up and I was glad I did. I learned a lot about the culture of India at the same time. I have experienced many wonderful Indian dishes with the help of this book.

One of the best Indian cookbook I've ever come across, though I've tried 3 Madhur Jaffrey books and they are all excellent. This particular volume has recipes she collected from various family cooks. Beautiful pictures and details about the regions of India.

Madhur Jaffrey has done it again. She, of the lore fame, has spun a tale taking the reader into different states of the country. Her unique style of narrative makes you feel you are having a cup of tea across from her and listening to her elaborate on each distintive cuisine. Her recipes are simple yet the creator comes up with authentic and complex foods that strive to do justice to the varied cuisine of India. As with all her other books, this one is a keeper. Madhur Jaffrey has become my favorite aunt whose knowledge of both cuisine and culture I devour with each new offering from her.