From Publishers Weekly
"The Ayurvedic meal," writes Hospodar, "is designed to promote optimum digestion and maximum pleasure." Indeed, the Indian "life science" of Ayurveda has been ensuring the health of mind, body and spirit for many centuries. Applying ancient philosophical and dietary concepts to contemporary, holistic food preparation, Hospodar has spent over two decades researching and adapting recipes from three continents; the result is a wide-ranging compendium of 750 vegetarian dishes and a storehouse of practical information and advice. Twenty-six chapters, arranged by main ingredient (Grains, Tofu, etc.) and course (Appetizers through Puddings), present flavorful, healthy selections, such as Artichoke-Filo Pie, and Lentil Burgers with Herbed Ch?vre Sauce. The recipes are designed to suit each of three body typesAVata, Pitta, Kapha (readers complete a questionnaire to identify their type). Introductory chapters explain the tenets of Ayurveda and offer cookware, seasoning and menu-planning suggestions. Recipes are geared to the fairly proficient cook and, though not specifically low calorie, are often wheat-, milk- and oil-free. Illustrations and an amusingly eclectic assortment of quotations enliven the text, which, although devoted to serious principles, manages to be unfailingly upbeat and enthusiastic.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Hospodar follows the principles of good health and happy living laid down in the Vedic literature of ancient India and updated for today's vegetarian consumers. This prescription for healthy eating calls for lots of laws governing everything culinary. Ten commandments order bread making. Quotations from many sacred sources pepper the text. Thanksgiving dinner includes stuffing and cranberries, but this quintessentially American feast features not turkey but a pateof ground nuts and cheese baked in a pastry crust. A variety of ethnic traditions contribute to the text, and Hospodar reinterprets them all to conform to Vedic principles. Many of Hospodar's desserts rely on fruits, but there are plenty of satisfying puddings as well. Whether or not one follows all the Ayurvedic analyses of body-mind types, vegetarian cooks can find plenty of good ideas here. Mark Knoblauch
