Famous for turning frequently bland vegetarian fare into a menu of comfort foods with ethnic panache, the Moosewood Collective knows better than to toy with a successful formula. It has evolved, however, and its most encompassing volume so far offers mainly new hits. The original Moosewood Cookbook
seems dated compared to spunky new recipes such as zesty Tabouli with Shrimp and Oranges, and Middle Eastern Lentils and Pasta, which gets bite from onions and chilies. Recipes are consistently easy to make; Black Bean and Sweet Potato Hash, and Tuscan Panzanella, are a cinch on any family's weekly menu. Many dishes, such as Instant Tamale Pie, will appeal to the pickiest of taste buds. A chapter on seafood, with Pecan Crusted Fish and Cioppino, is offset by vegan recipes such as Baked Tofu Sticks, Curried Quinoa and Vegan Lasagna. Macaroni and Cheese with Tofu is a welcome low-fat alternative to a classic, and Lovely Low-Fat Latkes contain only 2.5 grams of fat each. Complete nutritional information and tips on substitutions and recipe histories, as well as sections on organic standards and a guide to ingredients, make this book beginner friendly. With a section on sandwiches and wraps and a generous dessert section (including Big Chocolate Chip Cookies, Pistachio Cardamom Cake and even a Vegan Oil Pie Crust), this may be for vegetarians what the Silver Palate's New Basics
was for aspiring gourmets. Photos not seen by PW. (Nov. 5)
Forecast:This cookbook will join the ranks of the topselling original.
