Cape Mediterranean

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY 4 NOV. 2019

In this solid debut cookbook, South African Food Fox blogger Van der Merwe celebrates Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. "So many of us love long lunch tables that start with breads and spreads, going into smaller bites or tapas," she explains as she delivers dozens of recipes perfect for entertaining, from the traditional (olive tapenade with anchovy and capers; hummus; and flatbread with za'atar) to fresh takes on classics arancini with smoked mozzarella and aioli; brioche mini-rolls made with grape juice; and lemon-herb, pan-fried calamari with chorizo. She includes plenty of hearty dishes, such as an Italian-style white bean soup with karoo lamb and white wine; coq au vin, made with riesling wine; and pan-fried potato gnocchi with charred cream of corn and bacon. At the conclusion of the book is a brief dessert section featuring white tiramisu with brandy; honey and rosewater panna cotta; and baklava cigars with citrus and spices. This is an excellent, one-stop resource for hosts who need inspiration in creating a party menu.