Jewish Cooking Boot Camp

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY 3 AGO 2009

Whatever tribe readers may belong to, they're sure to find a few new favorites (and an auxiliary Jewish grandma) in this terrific collection, which has the feel of a conversation with a caring relative. Authors Marks and Carneiro state up front that they aren't "keeping kosher or following rules" in their compilation of menus, organized by holiday (complete with wine pairings), though they do include a wealth of thoughtful tips for those who prefer to stick by tradition. Yes, brisket, latkes, kugel and flourless Passover Brownies make the mix, but so does a kosher caipirinha (utilizing kosher cachaca). The emphasis is on flavorful home cooking: chicken noodle soup, Swiss steak, mashed potatoes, and a simple ice cream pie will appeal to cooks of any faith. Anecdotes, quirky suggestions (like a list of Chanukah-appropriate hip-hop), and tips for buying and presentation jostle with recipes like a busy, satisfying family dinner, providing new cooks and those intimidated by Jewish cuisine a comforting, familial vibe.