cover image Eat, Taste, Heal: An Ayurvedic Cookbook for Modern Living

Eat, Taste, Heal: An Ayurvedic Cookbook for Modern Living

Thomas Yarema, Daniel Rhoda, Johnny Brannigan, . . Five Elements, $29.95 (352pp) ISBN 978-0-9769170-0-7

Holistic physician Yarema, patient Rhoda and chef Brannigan contribute their individual perspectives on India's ancient medical science, ayurveda, to this attractive volume. Introduced to the system by different routes (disillusionment with Western medical practices, illness and transcendental meditation, respectively), the authors detail an array of ayurvedic techniques (diet, breathing, meditation, exercise, aromatherapy). Much more than a cookbook, this guide can serve as a complete introduction to ayurveda. Readers will learn how to identify their ayurvedic type; detect and treat imbalances and illness; select foods, daily routines and activities best for them; adapt to seasonal and aging patterns; and, most importantly, put the power to heal in their own hands. Based on cuisines from around the globe, the recipes demonstrate how to vary ayurvedic meals to nurture each of the ayurvedic types. The tempting selections include Roasted Sunflower Pâté, Gnocchi with Pumpkin Sauce, Seared Sesame Trout with Coconut Curry Sauce, and Mango and Passion Fruit Cheesecake. The recipes are easy to follow and require little preparation time. The authors stress that adopting an ayurvedic lifestyle requires time, commitment and much self-inquiry, but make an enthusiastic and persuasive case for doing so. Color photos. (Jan. 25)