Roots by Diane Morgan
For anyone who ever picked up a strangely shapes, gnarly looking vegetable at the farmers' market and said, 'What's this?' Roots is your go-to guide to the veggies found underground. This comprehensive cookbook reveals the underworld of roots, from the familiar (beetroot, carrots, potatoes) to the unfamiliar (jicama, salsify, yucca) to the practically unheard of (cassava, galangal, crosnes). Discover the fascinating history and lore of each one, their nutritional content, how to buy and store them and, the best part, more than 250 recipes that bring out their best flavours. Start simply with easy-to-prepare Ginger Rhubard Chutney. Save it in pretty glass containers and this tangy-spicy sauce makes a great gift (or eat it yourself straight from the jar!). Explore more unusual varieties like burdock, a long, thin root with a mild flavor and pleasing crunch that makes it ideal for pickling and stir-fries. Dindin;t know turmeric was a root? Used mostly in Asian cooking, turmeric is best known for its beautiful golden colour and its welcome presence in dishes like Chaing Mai Curry Noodles. And don't forget the well-loved stand-bys like potatoes and carrots that make flavourful hearty stews and quick weeknight meals. Whether you are bringing home your new-found roots from the grocery store or your local farmers' market, these delicious, nutritious and easy on-the-wallet veggies will add a new level of taste and sophistication to your everyday cooking.