We round up some of the best new releases worth adding to your bookshelf.
La Latina – Grace Ramirez You might recognise the author of La Latina – Venezuela-raised, New York-based chef Grace Ramirez was a judge on My Kitchen Rules NZ, during a recent three-year stint living in New Zealand. Although she has since returned to New York, her colourful culinary legacy remains in the form of her first cookbook, produced with local publishers Penguin Random House New Zealand.
They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but in La Latina’s case, its vibrant, festive jacket is a good indication of what’s in store. The book is a celebration of the many cultures and cuisines of Latin America, and it’s full of punchy, fresh ingredients and exciting flavour combinations.
Rather than dividing by countries, the chapters cover meal types – starting with Grains & Soups and finishing with Fiestas. They include the traditional dishes of Ramirez’s Venezuelan childhood – such as cachapas (corn pancakes stuffed with buffalo mozzarella), Latin American favourites like tamales, empanadas and ceviche, and her own Latin-inspired creations, like Duck Breast with Guava and Wild Berry Sauce.
Helpfully, the cookbook has been created with New Zealand readers in mind, so all the recipes feature ingredients that are available locally. Anyone looking for inspiration to throw a margarita-fuelled fiesta will find La Latina to be an invaluable resource.
Issue 115 is packed with inspiration for all kinds of cosy meals – whether you’re dining alone, as two or with a few. We start with our Plating Game interview with Jesse Mulligan which inspired a medley of curries and sides then move on to a round up of easy one-pan chicken dishes, a variety of pasta bakes and meatballs, and using one simple yet delicious tart base we whip up five fab filling options. Sarah’s wintry faves include a moreish chorizo (not) carbonara, lamb and spinach filo pie and we finish off with sweet treats and decadent puds. We love seeing what you create, don’t forget to share your dish dishes with our Facebook community. When it comes to winter cooking, make it SIMPLY YUM!