Pure Vegan

May 21, 2012
A vegan lifestyle evokes images of sticks and twigs, buying in bulk, or political treatises advocating a diet devoid of animal products, but in L.A.-based cook and designer Shuldiner’s first cookbook, culinary delights abound throughout the day in the life of a vegan. Pleasure-filled and fashionable upscale recipes are vegan dishes in designer clothing; however, this cookbook is more than a fashion statement. Recipes are unadulterated and uncomplicated in execution, uncluttered in expression, yet complex in flavor. On a vegan culinary tour from morning to night, savory breakfast tarts are hearty with leeks, nuts, and mushrooms. French toast is topped with cardamom-perfumed pear compote. A rich chowder combines celery root and fennel. Three chapters inspire noshing into wee hours when passionate vegans indulge in caramel-sauced pears poached in tea, dates dipped in coffee crema, and chocolate tart that ends with a flourish of Maldon sea salt crystals from the British Isles, delicate as fallen “snowflakes.” Basic vegan pantry items and utensils are outlined; anecdotal recipe headers encourage variation and reflect on the aesthetics of each dish. With a sophisticated design of mocha and avocado–colored pages that highlight stunning photography, this volume delivers on chic vegan eats.