It’s time we ditch exotic and embrace desi
Book Review-
Vegetarian Cuisine From The Himalayan Foothills: Flavours And Beyond
- Shubh Mathur -
What does a health-conscious, vegetarian guy need on travel
to Manali? Healthy food, Of course! And Voila, Veena Sharma has got that
covered in her well-presented and comprehensive catalogue of the delectable
vegetarian dishes nitpicked from the nooks and corners of the Himalayas for the
author. This review, henceforth, would be part appreciation and part gratitude to
Veena for her wonderful and eccentric effort in bringing out a recipe-book that
is much more than just that.
Yoga opines that food is not just energy
but a vibe in itself. When
one begins reading the book, it feels as if an Ayurvedic scripture or a Yogic
lesson on Gastronomy is unfolding before him; the
reader is made to rever and sanctify food.
Further, the
reader does not feel disconnected from the book even if he is not into cooking.
Most of the recipes, although made with local ingredients, fall well within the
reach of any middle-class home in India. Unlike the celebrity chefs who present
any illogical smorgasbord on your palette, here, the recipes are not too
exorbitant or exaggerated that one would feel apprehensive rather than an urge
to try something afresh.
Special
credits must go to the photographer, Nandita Singh, for complimenting the rich
culture with luring photos and adding another layer to this beautifully crafted
book. When the entire country is going ‘vocal for local’, it’s time we ditch
exotic and embrace desi.
Vegetarian
Cuisine From The Himalayan Foothills: Flavours And Beyond
Niyogi Books
Block D,
Building No. 77
Okhla
Industrial Area, Phase- I
New Delhi-
110020