The Mountain Baker

October 16, 2020

This eclectic collection is more than the subtitle suggests: while there are plenty of high-altitude baking recipes (both savory and sweet), there are also soups, meat dishes, salads, trail mixes, and drinks. The guide is liberally peppered with stories about the origin of the dishes, the friendship between Council (Cookies for Everyone) and Fasani, and the evolution of their Colorado bake shop Dessert'D Organic. While the recipes are written for high-altitude baking, each includes a note about how to adjust for low-altitudes, making the recipes versatile for a variety of home cooks. The level of complexity runs the gamut: from simple side dishes to snacks that require more advanced techniques such as tempering chocolate. Many standard favorites have been tweaked to increase protein for people who spend their days outdoors. The introductory sections emphasize high-quality, organic ingredients and clearly state what tools are required to make the recipes. While a few ingredients may be difficult to source, most have substitution suggestions. VERDICT This straightforward cookbook should appeal to those looking for hearty meals and protein-heavy snacks and, obviously, those looking for high-altitude baking recipes--Rebecca Brody, Westfield State Univ., MA

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