Book Review: The Vegetarian Flavor Bible
The Vegetarian Flavor Bible is an essential reference for flavor pairings, nutrition information, and how-to tips for creating a plant-based diet.
As National Nutrition Month comes to a close, I have the chance to introduce a book that will hopefully leave you inspired to get into the kitchen and create veggie-based meals. If you’ve ever asked yourself “What can I make with this?” The Vegetarian Flavor Bible, authored by award-winning Karen Page, has the answer. It’s a valuable reference to have on the kitchen counter for anyone, not just those of us who cook mainly with vegetables. More of a reference manual than a cookbook, it combines the basics of plant-based nutrition and how to maximize vegetarian flavors with in-depth lists of creative food pairings and tips.
One of the most valuable aspects of the Vegetarian Flavor Bible is its generous section on flavor matchmaking. As you know, I am big on creating simple meals with what I have on hand. I love to turn leftover black beans, some sprouts, sliced avocado, and crumbled tempeh into a week-day lunch. Since I’m pretty familiar with all of those ingredients, it comes easily to me. But what if I had never used tempeh before? The Flavor Bible’s matchmaking section describes tempeh’s flavor, its nutritional profile, tips on how to steam and marinate it, what flavors tempeh goes with, and it lists menu ideas on food pairings. Want to use tempeh in a sandwich? The flavor matchmaking guide suggests it pairs well with Russian dressing, sauerkraut, and Swiss. Tempeh Reuben, anyone? For a quick dinner idea the Flavor Bible suggests tempeh with coconut milk, collard greens, curry, and sweet potatoes and also lists the spices and complementary vegetables to go along with it.
If you’re in a vegetable rut and want to learn a few surefire ways to make them more of a focus on your plate, the Vegetarian Food Bible is worth scoping out. It will help give you the confidence to try new foods and help you make simple steps towards incorporating more real, whole foods into your lifestyle. Click here to learn more or buy the book!
