The Flavor Bible

Anyone who has picked up an unusual ingredient on a whim, or felt in the mood for a certain flavor, will find inspiration in this book for designing a menu with that ingredient or flavor. Cooks will love how it frees them from formal recipes, and more casual cooks will like how it supports their more free-spirited attitude toward cooking.

It's very easy to fall into a rut when cooking dinner for one's family or party guests. We stick to the tried and true, pull out the yellowing recipes, and serve the same old familiar tastes. It seem too risky to experiment - what if the brilliant combination you thought up falls flat or, worse yet, tastes terrible? That's where this new guide from award-winning authors Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg will come in handy. Experienced, and not so experienced, cooks can feel more confident in combining flavors after checking the compatibility of those tastes in this guide.

There are thousands of ingredients cross-referenced in this fascinating reference book. Not only are ingredients discussed as to their compatibilty with other flavors, but you'll also understand the type of taste, season, weight, volume and more for each one. In some cases you'll find lists of compatible pairings, with others you'll find suggestions for harmonious blendings of several ingredients. Not only are ingredients analyzed for their best flavor matches, but cuisines are also featured with discussions of their prime ingredients.

Even more interesting is the multitude of commentary from chefs describing their individual approach to taste. You'll see how differently the same ingredient can be perceived through each chef's palate and cooking affinity.

If you expect to find a recipe in this book, you'll be very disappointed. But if you're seeking inspiration to develop your own dishes, to suit your own personal tastes and cooking style, this will become an indispensable reference in your kitchen. The next time you're tempted to try a new, unfamiliar ingredient, there'll be no need to hesitate because with the flip of a few pages you'll understand how it will be work as part of a complete menu of flavors.