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FIX, FREEZE, FEAST by Kati Neville and Lindsay Ahrens is just out in an updated second edition and it stays true to its title.  Neville and Ahrens provide 150 relatively easy to prepare and store recipes – perfect for the busy parent. Quantities are large (making 15 or 16 servings so that multiple meals can be frozen). As I read, I found that I wanted to sample several dishes and was tempted to cut back on the quantities suggested so as to “fix, cook and feast,” eliminating the option of freezing. Neville and Ahrens do a very good job, however, of specifying the type and size of freezer container and also add a short personal note about each recipe, suggesting side dishes, substitutions, or serving events (e.g., dinner guests).  One piece of information which is lacking is nutrition information, although there is an emphasis on healthy, fresh ingredients. Recipes span a variety of categories including Chicken, Beef, Pork, Veggie or Seafood Main Dishes plus Sauces/Marinades and a small section on Breakfast, Snacks and Sweets. Colorful, appetizing pictures and interspersed.This made me think of the previously reviewed Good and Cheap by Leanne Brown.

 

THE CHINA STUDY COOKBOOK is also scheduled to be available this week in a revised and expanded edition which will contain over 175 whole food, plant-based recipes.  Compiled by LeAnne Campbell, this cookbook devoted a significant portion at the beginning to explaining the rationale for choosing a plant-based focus. It's rather text-heavy although the colorful chart comparing the nutrient content of three lunches (Rice Salad, Peanut Butter & Jelly, or Hot Dog) would be informative for our Health classes. That section is followed by more discussion of possible substitutes and chef’s tools.  The recipes seemed somewhat more complex and used, of course, specialized ingredients like whole wheat pastry flour and non-dairy milk (rice, soy or almond). The categories range across breads, appetizers, soups, sandwiches, entrees and desserts. Again, the pictures are beautiful, but surprisingly there is no nutrition information with each recipe.