The Practical Encyclopedia of Mexican Cooking

Well written, concise, and full of information in an easy to read style. This book takes you from the background of Mexican style cooking to preparing your own items following the easy recipes (often fully illustrated). If you are into authentic Mexican style cooking, this is the book for you. The Practical Encyclopedia of Mexican Cooking

I have a passion for authentic regional quisine, so often when we eat out, what you get served under the name of "Mexican", "Chinese" or whatever does not bear much resemblance to the actual cuisine eaten in those countries. Here in Australia, most Mex is just heaps of meat, tasteless beans and stale salad drowned in too-salty salsa and tonnes of cheese! Very heavy and fatty. Compared to that scenario, Jane Milton's "Practical Encyclopedia of Mexican Cooking" is a revelation! There are plenty of easy to follow, simple recipes with great photos (so you can tell if your result looks anything like it should). The recipes are also very diverse and represent the broad range of exciting flavours that are Mexican Cuisine. I have so far tried many of the recipes in this book and have had very enthusiastic responses from dinner guests, surprised at the lightness, freshness and subtle variety of flavours that are part of authentic Mex. There are lots of hot, cold and alcoholic drink recipes as well to round out your feast. The part I love most about this book is all the historical information about recipes and foods and how all of that relates to the history of the country itself. For example, I did not know that chocolate originated in Mexico and was taken back to Europe by visitors, or that the Germans introduced the art of beer-making to the country. The glossary of ingredients if fabulous also, and includes similar historical/ background info. In summary, this book is very comprhensive, very authentic, thorough and easy to use on a day-today basis! You may find, as I have, that many of your other cookbooks get dusty on the shelf as you explore the delights of Jane Milton's "Practical Encyclopedia of Mexican Cooking"!!