Ecological Cooking: Recipes to Save the Planet

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Summary: Approachable cookbook for students, vegetarians, everyone!
Review: I bought this book 7 years ago when I was first living on my own and learning to cook. Not only was I new to vegetarianism, but I was also new to cooking for myself. The recipes are easy to make (fool-proof, really) and most of the recipes draw from the same group of ingredients. Once you have most of the recommended pantry items on hand, you can whip up just about anything. The ingredient dictionary is terrific for new vegetarians; I otherwise may have never found out what "seitan" and "tamari" are! I really can't recommend this book enough!!!

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Summary: Not Just for Vegans
Review: I gave up being a vegan almost ten years ago, but I still keep this book around for a few excellent staple recipes--veggie burgers, sloppy joes, bread casserole. Its simplicity is a relief compared to the fifty-ingredient all-day projects presented in many modern vegan cookbooks, and many of the recipes are surprisingly good. The only thing wrong with this book is the terrible index.

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Summary: Useful cookbook with lots of good recipes!
Review: I highy recommend any cookbook by Joanne Stepaniak. The books not only have delicious, easy to prepare recipes, but also contain a wealth of knowledge for those just getting started in plant-based food preparation. Try this and any other book by Joanne and you will not be disappointed. Cooking without animal products have never been easier and more rewarding.

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Summary: If you get only one vegan cookbook, get this one!
Review: This is the cookbook I recommend to people getting started with vegan cooking. As well as a huge range of recipes, Stepaniak and Hecker give a guide to setting up the vegan kitchen, and oodles of inspiring quotes on vegan ethics. Most of the recipes use "normal" ingredients; less familiar ingredients are explained in a glossary. While I will admit I didn't like every single recipe here, most of them are tasty, filling, and have become a regular part of our family's repertoire. I particularly like Basic Muffins, Teriyaki Salad, Indonesian Rice Salad, and Spicy Vegetable Bean Stew.