Page for page, this omnibus encompasses the full spectrum of vegetarian cooking. Covering not only the basics of vegetarian fare, Dragonwagon (Dairy Hollow House Soup & Bread Cookbook) draws not only on the traditional beans, tofu and pasta staples but also on the influences of other cultures. From the Indian Dal through the Sweet Sesame-Gingered Dressing to the Eggplant Fans, the volume is redolent with herbs and spices and seasoned with a large pinch of loving care. Passionate about her food, Dragonwagon intersperses anecdotes throughout the book chronicling her life and philosophies as well as those of her husband, who died during its writing. Each chapter has its own introduction to promote and inform—be it on the health benefits of beans or the versatility of soy—before following on with the relevant recipes. The 1,000-plus recipes are augmented with multiple variations that fill the margins along with menu suggestions and helpful notes. Many recipes are suitable for vegans (a growing portion of the vegetarian market), but are just as appealing to the meat-lover who wants a change. Although the book often feels cluttered with information, with its multi-column layout, sidebars and line-drawings, the overall impression is vibrant and lively. (Oct.)
