The son of Mexican cooking legend Zarela Martinez, Sanchez is carving out his own reputation as co-host of the Food Network's Melting Pot. In keeping with the style of that show's offerings, Sanchez here serves up 120 recipes reflecting the heritage and contemporary tastes of Latinos living in the U.S. These are neither attempts to capture the authentic recipes of Central and South America nor fancified "nouvelle" interpretations. They are the dishes served in the homes and restaurants of North America's Latino neighborhoods. Most ingredients will be readily available in American supermarkets and the items that may require a visit to the local barrio (e.g., guajillo chile or frozen banana leaves) are described in short footnotes making them easier to find or replace. From Spanish-influenced Conejo Asado (Roasted Rabbit) to Caribbean Pescado en Salsa de Coco (Fish in Coconut Broth), the dishes range well beyond the predictable but remain within the grasp of an average home cook. Sanchez's homey introductions and sidebars give the book a personal slant that should help build his own brand name; his wonderfully active photos offer glimpses into Latino neighborhoods across the country. (May)
Forecast:With his Spanish-language TV series soon to be released for broadcast in the U.S. as well as Latin America, this book should sell well in the barrio itself.
