Food Between Friends

January 4, 2021
Actor Ferguson and his best friend Tanous, a private chef, celebrate food and friendship in their entertaining debut. Many of the dishes are inspired by Ferguson’s childhood in New Mexico, such as biscochito cookie bars, Christmas chilaquiles (“Christmas” coming from the red and green chiles used in the dish), and sopaipillas (a fried bread that can be sweet or savory). Tanous, an Alabama native, shares plenty of Southern-inspired dishes, among them grouper and grits, chicory salad with benne croutons, and biscuits with cracked peppercorn gravy. In addition to the classics, there are inventive dishes such as potato-parsnip “hash-kes” (a combination of hash browns and latkes), an asparagus and leek galette, and tiramisu tres leches. The duo pepper the recipes with humor (“Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breast is about as exciting as waiting in line at the post office,” reads the introduction to tarragon chicken with caper wine sauce) and celebrate their friendship by swapping family recipes and “ them as inspiration for our own creations.” This will surely inspire home cooks to grab some friends and start making memorable meals. Agent: Jennifer Joel, ICM Partners.

Starred review from February 1, 2021

Actor Ferguson (Modern Family) and chef Tanous share their friendship and beloved meals in this vibrant cookbook. The text is conversational, incorporating personal stories, kitchen banter, and meals central to their backgrounds and friendship. Recipes include punch-ups of familiar favorites and odes to the pair's Southwestern and Southern roots. The book is arranged around classic categories--such as brunch, starters, sweets--but each section is a unique compilation of regional dishes and twists on classics. Ferguson and Tanous have an evident love for the dishes they share, and their personal histories. They range from a Chile Relleno Meatloaf to Eggplant Chips and Gas Station Cherry Hand Pies. Featured sections are dedicated to staples such as butter and tacos. Recipes are concise and would fit well in a family breakfast or dinner party. A handy section on serving pairings allows home cooks to mix and match meals as they like. VERDICT An effervescent, accessible cookbook bolstered by a joyful friendship. Fans of comedy-infused cookbooks and festive, lighthearted cooking will enjoy these creative meals.--Kate Bellody, SUNY New Paltz

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