I recently purchased a used copy of The Vegetarian Way - Total Health for You and Your Family (Virginia Messina and Mark Messina).
What a fantastic resource and cook book! If I was just starting to investigate "vegetarianism" this is one of the books I would recommend. I really enjoy reading about the science of food and this book devotes a good 80% to that very subject. The authors know of what they write - Virginia is a registered dietitian, with a MA in public health nutrition, and Mark holds a PhD in nutrition. Topics cover a wide range, from the obvious: getting started, making the transition, stocking the pantry, meal planning, etc. to pregnancy, breast feeding, the older vegetarian, children, the athlete, the teenager. Other chapters cover traveling and weight control (a perennial favourite in our culture!) The book is divided into 5 parts with a total of 24 chapters. Recipes are at the very end - a nice, varied selection - vegan, quick to prepare and so far, absolutely delicious!
This evening I prepared the Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce - I was very pleased with the results (a tangy alternative to ketchup).
Here are the ingredients:
- 2 lbs firm tofu
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 5 tbsp smooth peanut butter
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 4 tbsp tamari
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 to 2 tbsp water
In a bowl, mix all other ingredients, less the water. Then add just enough water to give the sauce a creamy consistence. Use as a sauce or dip for the fried tofu.
