The Karma Chow Ultimate Cookbook: 125+ Plant-Based Recipes for a Fit, Happy, Healthy You

This imaginative and accessible collection from Costello, a nutritionist and founder of the health/weight loss program Karma Chow, is heavy on instruction and light on politics. Costello chooses to inform rather than sell readers on her wellness program, giving a wealth of options that include meat-, dairy-, and egg-free meals. A medley of the familiar%E2%80%94mac and cheese (made with coconut or almond milk), corn chowder, enchiladas and "un-shepherd's pie"%E2%80%94rest comfortably next to soon-to-be favorites like pumpkin pie waffles, pad Thai, and smoky tempeh chili. Those new to vegetarian or vegan cooking will appreciate the lengths Costello goes to, to minimize the need for esoteric, hard-to-source ingredients; notes on substitutions and resources are provided. Nutritional information is given for every dish, though the tiny font at the base of each page may send readers on a hunt for a magnifying glass. Even a carnivore will appreciate chili sweet potato batons, wild mushroom quinoa pilaf, and raw Thai slaw, a flavorful medley of cabbage, bell pepper, snow peas, and carrots in a zesty Thai dressing. Costello offers a terrific resource for vegans and vegetarians who want to expand their options, as well as those interested in eating healthier meals. Color photos. (Oct.)