World Vegetarian Classics: Over 220 Authentic International Recipes for the Modern Kitchen

Meatless dishes from around the world shine in this stylish book. Brown, an American who caters and does food consulting in London, was inspired by the city's array of ethnic eateries, and much of the book is filtered through recent immigrants or British cooks who have become skilled in another region's cooking style; the "expert" on Spanish cooking, for example, is a Bristol chef, and many recipes are adapted from other cookbooks, perhaps less authentic as a result. Brown makes up for this by including numerous dishes that will pleasantly surprise vegetarians who think they've tried everything, such as delightful Coriander Pea Cakes in Coconut Curry from Mauritius; cute, fried Son-in-Law Eggs from Thailand; and a thick, hot Ukrainian variation on Borshch. Most are main dishes, and familiar offerings (Boston Baked Beans; Moroccan Mixed Vegetable Couscous) anchor the 11 chapters, which span the world by region. Few of the recipes are complicated, and Brown provides conversions and translations for measurements and terms, though beginners may be frustrated by the sometimes vague instructions. Still, with its beautiful presentation of a well-rounded selection of dishes, this book should take a prominent place on the shelf of any vegetarian who loves to cook. Photos. (Apr.)