The Best of Polish Cooking

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Summary: A delicious change of pace from our everyday fare
Review: I bought this book because of its price. I had no idea how popular it would be with my family. So far, every recipe I've tried has been a big hit. The contents are arranged into seasonal meals, such as "Easter Dinner for 10" and "Winter Brunch for 4." This makes it easy to choose dishes that work well together. In the back are sections on "Vodka Beverages," "Salads," and "Light Polish Fare." The recipes are relatively simple, and full of unexpected, delicious twists. (Who would have thought that horseradish gives just the right punch to carrot & apple salad?) I'm especially impressed by the Walnut Torte and the Cabbage, Leek, and Orange Salad. (My family has actually been taking second helpings of their veggies, thanks to this and other unique salads.) I never knew I could make anything so delicious and different at home. Some of the recipes were a bit time consuming, but most of the labor went into things like peeling potatoes and slicing mushrooms. Once the fruits and veggies are prepared, many recipes are easy and speedy. Just be forewarned that the yields are larger than you might expect. Many dishes for four people could easily feed six or more - and most of the planned meals include more courses than my family can eat in a sitting. However, we've been enjoying choosing a couple of dishes each night, and everything's so delicious that leftovers aren't a problem for long.

Rating:
Summary: Offers a cornucopia of seasonal delights
Review: Now in an revised and expanded edition, Karen West's The Best Of Polish Cooking continues to offer the kitchen cook a wealth of authentic, traditional Polish cuisine in an easy-to-use menu format bringing complementary dishes together for memorable dining. From Freshly Baked Potato Bread, Braised Spring Lamb with Cabbage, and Polish Sausage Simmered in Wine, to Tangy Apple and Leek Salad, Eggplant Crisps, and Tangerine Vodka, The Best Of Polish Cooking offers a cornucopia of seasonal delights spanning the entire the year.