Lust for Leaf

May 20, 2013
This isn’t your grandma’s collection of recipes. The second cookbook from Hot Knives bloggers Brown and George (after Salad Daze) fearlessly dives into the world of meat-free partying with dishes for pool parties, barbecues, camping, and more. The self-proclaimed “bearded, mescal-swilling Marthas” don’t shy away from expletives and there are more references to “sixers” than to cake plates. Daring additions to the tried and true—like adding chopped dill pickles to power bars, and lavender flowers and ewe’s-milk feta to white rice—are sure to shake up any staid kitchen. Innovative substitutions for meat are showcased in dishes like Jackfruit Carnitas and Mushroom Ceviche, and there are also tips for using unusual ingredients such as kudzu starch. Beverage pairings and soundtrack suggestions for recipes, a beer list with 58 entries, and sidebars with tips round out the book. Occasionally the authors go too far—references to used condoms and a warning to stay close to a bathroom—but readers will be won over by the no-holds-barred innovative spirit that permeates these quality recipes from two cool guys who definitely know how to cook. Agent: Brandi Bowles, Foundry Literary + Media.