The Cook Book

This cookbook is made from a recycled, hardbound book that came from a used book store. The pages of the book were pasted over with vegetarian recipes by Meredith Keller (Ex-Boyfriend), Kelli Coaxum (Kelliope) and Matilde (Mathilde). The book also includes some information about the environmental impact of the things we eat. Each of the pages has a splash of color with pictures of ingredients and some construction paper matting. The cut and pasted assembly of the book provides a lovingly handmade chic and makes the book more than just a handy refence in the kitchen, but also a work of art.

The book is broken into six separate sections. The first part provides information about diet and the enviroment. The pages discuss issues such as pollution, global warming, water conservation, air quality and water safety.

The second section of this book is full of recipes for breakfast and brunch foods. Highlights include vegan recipes for breakfast classics like pancakes and french toast.

The third section of the book has recipes for soups and stews. There's an excellent vegan chili recipe and even vegan recipes for traditionally creamier soups like potato leek.

The fourth section of this book has main course recipes. These recipes draw on inspiration from Italian, Indian and Asian cuisine, just to name a few. Creative use of fruit, herbs, seasoning and nuts makes these dishes delicious and colorful. A few choice selections include Savory Apple and Onion Empanada, Roasted Vegetable Salad with Mango Viniagrette and Broccoli Rabe Over Polenta. There is even a recipe for making your own seitan, from scrach.

The fifth section of this book has breads, baked goods and dessert recipes. Each of the recipes is either vegan or provides information on how to make a vegan version. Some favorites here include Rosemary Onion Bread, Mini Cherry Cheese Cakes and Vegan Chocolate Truffles.

The last section of this book has dips and sauces. There's a recipe for hummus and some very hot green curry sauce. There's even a vegan "cheese" sauce recipe.