Tacos

March 16, 2009
While one might think of the taco as a simple street snack, Miller, chef and founder of Santa Fe's Coyote Cafe, takes the Mexican favorite to a new level in this single-subject title comprising 75 recipes. Organized by protein (with additional chapters on breakfast, salsas, sides and drinks), recipes for taco fillings take center stage and are preceded by informative headnotes and paired with suggested tortillas, accompaniments and drinks; each is tagged with a handy heat level indicator. The selection of tacos range from classic (pork carnitas) to inventive (Thai shrimp) and include a good number of vegetarian options. While some might be intimidated by ingredients such as wild boar, buffalo, elk and tamarind paste, the author includes source suggestions and some substitutions. Prep times for some recipes can be up to six and a half hours and may discourage those who want to keep things fast and easy in the kitchen. Nonetheless, this well-designed title has an appealing sense of enthusiasm and authority.