The Irish Farmers' Market Cookbook

U.K. television personality McKenna takes readers on a tour of the Emerald Isle's farmers markets in this attractive but predictable volume. Essays on responsible fishing and meat purchasing complement McKenna's vendor profiles, as do handsome, full-color slice-of-life photos. Though she offers 135 recipes for making the most out of ones local market, the simpler, more rustic dishes fare best: Beef and Rabbit Stew with Cider, Shepherds Pie, roast chicken, Curried Parsnip and Apple Soup and Baked Apples are sure to satisfy with a minimum of fuss. That said, some dishes are best left to the locals, like Ummera Smoked Chicken Paella, which relies on smoked chicken from a specific vendor, and Gubbeen cheese, a local specialty only available from an Irish cheese-making family. McKenna's reliance on weight rather than volume for most recipes will likely frustrate, but the book makes up with simple steps and ingredients, where possible. Few Yanks will be able to get their hands on the game required for Venison Terrine or Chocolate and Venison Stew, but those with a fondness for Irish flavors will enjoy reminiscing.