Pure & Simple: Homemade Indian Vegetarian Cuisine

Diners hesitant to attempt Indian dishes will be reassured by the steady, reassuring voice of culinary expert Mittals. In this collection of over 100 classic and contemporary dishes, readers are guided, literally, through step by step instructions for Aloo Gobi, a litany of lentil dishes, and other vegetarian fare, with the inclusion of color photos illustrating key steps. Approachable enough for a beginner (dominated by staples such as pilafs, fritters, and stews), Mittal has an eye for presentation as well, evidenced by the multicolored Sweet Coconut Squares, coconut cakes topped with silver leaves and chopped pistachios; Spicy Chat Bowls that cradle a variety of fillings; and domed Semolina Cakes. Though most recipes come together fairly quickly, those new to Indian cooking will likely need to invest in a pressure cooker and a handful of other items, not to mention spices and key ingredients, in order to complete many of Mittal's dishes. Once properly equipped, home cooks will find this a handy, confidence-building guide to vegetarian fare.