One of my not-so-guilty pleasures is browsing the cookbook section of the local book store. When I came across Pure Vegan by Joseph Shuldiner, I was immediately intrigued. The cover photo was absolutely stunning. The title proudly announces the recipes contained within are Pure Vegan.
Paging through this extraordinary cookbook, you get a sense of Shuldiner's cooking though both the layout and the photographs inside. It comes as no surprise when you read that the author is also a graphic designer, every page is a treat.
Shuldiner goes through the pantry items and kitchen equipment he prefers in the front of the book, like most good cookbooks do. However, he has chosen to divide the recipes by time of day he likes to enjoy them; morning through very late night. This is fitting, as I find more people grazing their way through the day. Each section has drinks, noshes, entrees and treats. Many are accompanied by yummy photography that makes you want to try each recipe.
Some recipes are dead simple, some require a bit more time and attention. Each is well thought out. French toast with cardamom pear compote is a bit fussy calling for homemade bread, but you could easily substitute something from your favorite local bakery. I'm sure it would be just as delicious. Pure Vegan's Dukkah, an Egyptian dipping powder made of nuts, seeds and spices, looks a treat and perfect for a lazy evening at home or made in a larger batch for a party.
The best thing I found was that the recipes have a slightly different take than most cookbooks. This alone makes it worth picking up, as if the photography weren't enough.
Pure Vegan is a Vibrant Foodie recommended cookbook.