Bish Bash Bosh!

June 17, 2019
In their follow-up to Bosh!, British vegan vloggers Theasby and Firth expand on their catalogue with 120 new recipes for plant-based dishes. The authors include plenty of meat-, egg-, and dairy-free takes on classics including grilled cheese sandwiches (with vegan cheese), vegetable shepherd’s pie, wings (oyster mushrooms in place of chicken), and burgers (annoyingly, the authors assume readers have access to their first book for the patty recipe). But they also offer many creative recipes that raise the bar for vegan fare: banana-bread doughnuts, mini mushroom pies, and sweet potato tikka masala. The book’s international approach (falafel; a meatless riff on gumbo; and a vermicelli and vegetable salad dressed with a zippy ginger, chili pepper, and peanut butter dressing) is sure to fight palate fatigue and expand meal options. Some of the duo’s dishes require a significant amount of prep time with multiple steps (e.g., the Christmas Crisscross, a puff pastry stuffed with layers of mushrooms and other vegetables; or the Bangers and Mash, which requires home cooks to make their own sausages from carrots, parsnips, and apples), but those who are up to the task or have access to premade vegan substitutes shouldn’t run into many issues thanks to the book’s concise instructions. This inventive, flavor-packed volume will be a boon for vegans and veggie-lovers alike.

Starred review from August 1, 2019

"Plant-based food is awesome!" This quotation from the acknowledgements page of the latest book from Theasby and Firth (Bosh! Simple Recipes, Amazing Food, All Plants) explains their philosophy of cooking. If you believe that vegan food is fussy or awkward, demanding obscure ingredients that take forever to source, think again. Ideal for would-be vegans or for people wanting to rejoice in more vegetable-based recipes during summer, there's enough here to keep all manner of cooks happy. Plentiful information, hacks to simplify life, lists of useful kitchen equipment, essential pantry staples, and an explanation of step-by-step kitchen tasks will especially help beginners. There are American and British classics, along with great ideas for Thanksgiving and holiday get-togethers, delicious curries, and Tex-Mex options. Also included are quick meals that can be served on a weekday, including spaghetti and sauce made in one pot, as well as a variety of desserts, such as New York-style cheesecake. Recipes come with a confection of gorgeous photos that will inspire readers to at least try a recipe or two. VERDICT A true celebration of plant-based cooking, this book is highly recommended for complete beginners who want to get started.--Penelope J.M. Klein, Glasgow, Scotland

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