cover image Food of Life: A Book of Ancient Persian and Modern Iranian Cooking and Ceremonies

Food of Life: A Book of Ancient Persian and Modern Iranian Cooking and Ceremonies

Najmieh Batmanglij. Mage Publishers, $0 (245pp) ISBN 978-0-934211-00-0

Batmanglij, an Iranian emigre who is a culinary historian, effectively weaves Iranian cookery with ancient Persian legends and poetry (unfortunately, many appear sans attributions or dates), and descriptions of traditional ceremonies and holidays. The author serves up a variety of delicacies, such as an eggplant with pomegranate appetizer; stuffed fruits or vegetables, or dolmeh, like grape leaves or apples stuffed with peas and meat; lamb's head and feet soup; omeletskookoofilled with meat, vegetables or herbs; lamb brochettes; stuffed fish with tamarind; sauteed brains; rice with sour cherries; rhubarb stew; mango pickles; carrot preserves; baklava; and hot and cold drinks. The uncomplicated recipes feature preparation and cooking times; lists of Iranian specialty stores in the U.S., and necessary kitchen equipment and ingredients for a Persian pantry, and a Persian-English glossary are included. Illustrations. (September 2)