“I have long maintained that the Middle East is Allah’s gift to the non-meat eater—the region is lush in its vegetation and rich in its culinary history.”
—Sally Butcher from Veganistan
Although London-based food writer and cookbook author Sally Butcher has mainly focused on
throughout her oeuvre, only here has she gone full vegan. However, in Butcher's hands a vegan approach translates to a remarkable cookbook that offers an array of enticing dishes whether you're vegan or not. With each recipe, Butcher (also owner of the Persian deli Persepolis) explains she has aimed to strike the balance between hot and cold flavors considered crucial in traditional Middle Eastern kitchens. Drawing inspiration from her restaurant, Butcher keeps these dishes simple while still offering inventive takes on everything from mezze (the carrots in mint syrup is a standout). stews (including a delectable Afghan chili) and baked dishes (don't miss the plum, pistachio and kohlrabi tagine) to dessert (including a revelatory halva). The result? A must-have vegan cookbook you'll savor.