The Global Pantry Cookbook

Book Review: The Global Pantry Cookbook by Scott Mowbray & Ann Taylor Pittman

Rating: 4 stars out of 5

The Global Pantry Cookbook, written by James Beard-Award winners Scott Mowbray and Ann Taylor Pittman, is a culinary treasure trove that unlocks the secrets of the global pantry. With over 120 recipes, this cookbook provides readers with the knowledge and inspiration to elevate their favorite dishes using 65 common pantry items sourced from around the world.

One of the standout features of this cookbook is its diversity of ingredients. From familiar items like miso, preserved lemons, and smoked paprika to lesser-known treasures such as Banyuls Vinegar and Makrut Lime Leaves, the authors introduce readers to a wide range of flavors and spices. This variety will undoubtedly pique the interest of adventurous home cooks eager to expand their culinary repertoire.

The book is thoughtfully organized into chapters that cover snacks, appetizers, salads, stews, and various meat categories like beef, lamb, pork, and poultry. There are also sections dedicated to fish, meat-free options, sandwiches, bread, vegetables, and desserts. With such a comprehensive collection of recipes, readers can easily find dishes to suit their preferences or dietary requirements.

In addition to the recipes themselves, The Global Pantry Cookbook provides invaluable guidance on working with these unique ingredients. The authors offer insights into essential cooking tools and techniques, ensuring that even novice cooks can confidently experiment with new flavors. A glossary of terms further enhances the reader's understanding of global pantry items, making this cookbook not only a source of delicious recipes but also an educational resource.

While the book's content is undeniably impressive, the visual appeal falls slightly short. Though the photographs are enticing and mouthwatering, they appear somewhat small and lack the captivating pop against the stark white background. A more visually striking presentation could have brought the recipes to life and further engaged readers.

Overall, The Global Pantry Cookbook is a valuable addition to any food lover's collection. Its wealth of recipes and diverse range of ingredients make it an excellent resource for both experienced cooks and those looking to expand their cooking horizons. While the visual presentation could be improved, the wealth of knowledge and inspiration within these pages more than compensates for this minor flaw. This cookbook would make an ideal gift for anyone seeking to explore new flavors and techniques in their culinary adventures.

ARC Via NetGalley