Monday, January 11, 2021

Monday Mix - The School of Essential Ingredients


 A friend, Linda H., lent this book to me with the caveat of "oh, it's good, but okay, but....".   

I found The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister to be very charming. I read it in a weekend. It's not incredibly difficult or even deeply profound, but it was very satisfying. And it was what I wanted at the time and that's awesome for a book - it served its purpose with dignity. 

Lillian's restaurant is a center. It's grounded and serves so many people.  Claire is a new mother. Tom has survived profound loss. Antonio is adapting to life in America. Carl and Helen, a long married couple, have their issues too.  Altogether, these students who gather on a Monday night learn a lot beyond cooking. 

cover blurb: The students have come to learn art behind Lillian's soulful dishes, but it soon becomes clear that each one each seeks a recipe for something beyond the kitchen. And, one by one, they are transformed by the aromas, flavors, and textures of what they create.

I really enjoyed this book and it made me want  to take a cooking class. I wanted to visit Lillian's restaurant and taste a dish with ingredients beyond my norm. It's always nice to read a "small" book with big dreams that mixes the right characters. 

Happy Monday. Let's have a good week. 

8 comments:

  1. I've friends that have taken one-off cooking classes and really enjoyed them.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hi Joanne - it sounds interesting ... I've recently bought a few books with chefs in mind, or their influence, their lovers etc ... for someone who loves cooking - and did take a course way back when - hence the interest now. Sounds a really good read - thank you - stay safe - Hilary

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I don't have a skilled palate, but I find it interesting for folks who can taste and throw in a pinch of this or that

      Delete
  3. I cook but not for pleasure...... to survive.
    Good review Joanne.
    Hope all is well.
    Yvonne.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. we are pretty basic cooks in our house, but it's nice to dream about fancy stuff. Take care

      Delete
  4. This sounds like a perfect read for me right now...anytime food is featured, I'm in!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think you'd really like it - the author hits the right vibe and yes, the food described sounds delicious.

      Delete