Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Ditch the Wheat by Carol Lovett - a review

Three words and a cookbook that will forever change your life states the inside cover of this exciting new book by Canadian author and Paleo enthusiast Carol Lovett. Suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, Carol indeed ditched the wheat and has regained her health and an unbound enthusiasm for healthful, gluten-free eating. With a plethora of chapters that include The Why, What, and How of Paleo; Ingredients; Tools and Equipment; Tips and Tricks plus all the types of dishes, Ms. Lovett arms the reader with knowledge to begin a healthful journey. A quote from Sir Albert Howard, founder of the Organic Farming Movement states: The Birthright of all living things is health. This law is true for soil, plant, animal and man: the health of these four is one connected chain. Any weakness of defect in the health of any earlier link in the chain is carried on to the next and succeeding links, until it reaches the last, namely, man.” Pretty powerful words to start off a cookbook chock filled with how-to tips, ideas for stocking your Paleo kitchen, getting to know your fats and so much more. The recipes are outstanding, and each section is preceded with a quotation. I particularly like one by nutritionist Chris Kresser: “Think of Paleo as a template, not a rigid prescription. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach.” One of the outstanding recipes for me was the Spicy Fish cakes with Dipping Sauce (p. 212). Homemade aioli, Dijon mustard and chopped bell peppers spice up the canned salmon, but the dipping sauce, an extra-garlicky sriracha aioli makes these almond floured cakes truly outstanding. Chicken Fingers (p. 232) include a chipotle aioli dipping sauce. The Caramel Chocolate Nut Bars (p. 294) are to die for (they resemble the classic Turtles clusters), but probably a treat for very occasional indulgences. All in all, this is a great introductory book for those new to Paleo. Lovett shows how simple ingredients can be transformed into exquisite delights.

No comments:

Post a Comment