Monday, May 12, 2014

Book Review: VEGAN PLANET


Robin Robertson’s Vegan Planet has long been a staple in our house. No matter what kind of food we feel like, I am sure to find a recipe in that colossal, comprehensive cookbook. In the mood for Chinese? Try the To-Fu Yung. Indian? Make Robin's Checkpeas Vindaloo. There are vegan versions of food from just about everywhere, such as Italy, France, Greece, Thailand, and Africa--and plenty of U.S. favorites like California Chili made with olives and avocados. And how about Tempeh and Red Bean Jambalaya with Chipotle Chiles? Robin also offers a section of Vegan Basics with recipes for meat substitutes like Seitan, Marinated Tofu, and Tempeh Bacon Bits. One of my favorite features is the amazing variety of delicious dressings and sauces sure to add zest to any meal. She includes everything from an Easy Vegan Hollandaise and Bechamel to Bourbon-Spiked Barbecue Sause and Ginger Lime-Dipping Sauce. 


So, when I received a copy of the new revised Vegan Planet, I immediately checked to make sure my favorite recipes from the first edition were included . . . and yep, they were--including the Tomato-Basil Lasagna Spirals that have gotten me through many a potluck (and believe me no one misses the meat or dairy). And phew, there were the Barley-Stuffed Cabbage Rolls that I make whenever I’m missing my mom’s German cooking. But the good news is that Robin has added 50 NEW recipes to the book, with dishes like Picatta-Style Cauliflower Steak, Paella-Stuffed Peppers, Pulled Portobello Barbecue, and Tiramisu Cheesecake. Robin has also updated the information and recipes from the original book to make them even healthier and more environmentally-friendly. Whether you are a long-time vegan needing fresh ideas or a new vegan wondering where to start, this cookbook is sure to satisfy. Check out some sample recipes here.