Book Review

BOOK REVIEW BY LINDA GARSON

Why We Cook

Women on Food, Identity, and Connection By Lindsay Gardner, Workman Publishing, $34

T’S INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S

Day on March 8, a day that celebrates women’s achievements in all walks of life. We used to feature women chefs, brewers, business owners, etc. in March until it was made clear to us that these women didn’t want to be singled out for being women, they wanted to be celebrated for just being good at what they do, irrespective of gender.

This year, we’ll let Lindsay Gardner celebrate women in food, and we’ll tell you about her beautiful book, “Why We Cook” - 230 pages full of thought-provoking stories, conversations, and essays from 112 women chefs, bakers, wine writers, home cooks, visionaries, and more, from a vast and diverse range of cultures. It’s not only fascinating to read, but there’s a lot to learn from these inspiring contributors, many of whom may be familiar to you with likely many more to discover.

I admit to reading cookbooks like I read novels – I read every page instead of flicking through to find the shortlist of recipes that appeal the most, and there’s plenty to read here, plus some delicioussounding recipes. Two completely different meatball recipes leapt out at me: Sage Buffalo Meatballs with Sweet Potato Purée (p.79) from indigenous chef and educator, Hillel Echo-Hawk; and Leticia Landa’s family’s modification of Isabel Caudillo’s recipe for Albóndigas from Mexico City (p.213).

I’m seriously tempted too by Southern California writer, Sara Forte’s, Grilled Wild Salmon Tacos with Avocado Sauce (p.143), and I hear South African caterer, Elizabeth Binder’s recipe for her “unforgettable”

I

Citrus Almond Polenta Cake (p.103) calling my name too.

As well as the captivating stories, I very much enjoyed the conversations and answers to leading questions such as, “What do you cook when you’re short on time?” (p.152) and “What is the greatest lesson you’ve learned from cooking?” (p.202) – and so many more!

Gardner is an illustrator, and every profile, perspective, and recipe in this delightful book is accompanied and visually enriched by her evocative watercolour artworks – a treat for the eyes, as well as your imagination.

On track.

As Curator of the Alberta Railway Museum and with support provided by donations to Edmonton Community Foundation, Stephen Yakimets is expanding awareness of the important role rail played in the growth of our province.

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