Speed Vegan

In "Speed Vegan", culinary author and professional chef Alan Roettinger draws upon his decades of experience and expertise to compile an impressively diverse 192-page collection of vegan recipes that are as 'kitchen cook friendly' as they are palate pleasing. Ranging from Hot Eggplant and Seitan Open-Face Sandwiches; Celeriac Remulade; and Campari-Braised Radicchio Salad with Grapefruit; to Blazing Pinto Beans; Chipotle Mushrooms; and Dried Fruit Compote, "Speed Vegan" is extraordinary because these are all dishes that can be prepared in a very short time (often a matter of minutes). Delicious and nutritious, all these showcased dishes would grace any meal from simple family dining to elegant celebratory affairs. Of special note for those new to vegan cooking are the opening chapters on essential kitchen equipment and stocking a vegan pantry. "Speed Vegan" is highly recommended, especially for vegan cooks who must include non-vegans at their table!

While I am not a vegan, I firmly believe that the American public is far too dependent on animal products in their cooking. Decreasing our consumption of animal based foods would greatly improve our health and environment. I am always on the lookout for recipes that will help our family have a meatless night or two in our weekly menu. The Speed Vegan is a wonderful reference whether you are strictly vegan or you just want to add some variety into your diet. The book starts out with a very helpful chapter on essential kitchen equipment and another on stocking the pantry. The equipment is listed as either necessary, helpful, or fun to have. I disagree with the author on one thing...my food processor is a necessity and not just merely helpful! I can't imagine life in the kitchen without it! The selection of ingredients recomended for the pantry is long but includes everything from scallions, tofu and garlic to the more unique like dried mushrooms, edamame, and miso. These ingredients are the basis for some truly amazing recipes. I am usually put off my recipes that contain odd things that I have never heard of but the author does a wonderful job of taking a common recipes and making them unique. For example the Potato Salad with Salsa Verde and Chocolate Pots de Creme using coconut milk. There are a number of more unusual recipes as well, for example Lotus Root Soba Noodles with Tekka and Hominy Hash. But for the most part, the recipes looked like something I have seen before...with a twist! The other great thing about these recipes is that they are all made in 30 minutes or less. This is a great help when you are running around trying to get kids to after school activities, finish the laundry, and help with homework. I must admit, I like my cookbooks to come with lots of pictures and while there are several I could have used a few more. It is especially helpful to have pictures when you aren't quite sure what it is you are making! But, I still give this book a huge recomendation for it's unique yet familiar recipes and detailed information on preparing the vegan pantry! Disclaimer: I was provided with one copy of this book in order to write my review. All opinions expressed here are mine and mine alone.