While pulses don't often dominate cookbook shelves, this standout release deserves recognition for elevating these nutritional powerhouses.
'Do You Know How to Taste… Legumes?' is an enlightening cookbook that showcases beans, peas, lentils, and broad beans in dishes from aperitifs to desserts. It covers four primary pulse families—or five, if separating split peas from chickpeas—starting with their history, culinary versatility, impressive nutrition profile (high in protein and fiber), and unique flavors, all presented with educational clarity and expertise.
The book brims with diverse recipes, including Vendée-style grilled mogettes sandwiches, hearty soups, fresh salads, main courses, sauces, terrines, pancakes, dumplings, and even desserts like chocolate fondant. Practical cooking tips and flavor pairings make it an invaluable kitchen companion.
Beyond the plate, pulses underpin sustainable agriculture and affordable, balanced nutrition. Pairing them with grains and vegetables delivers complete proteins—crucial in regions with limited meat access—offering a smarter alternative to meat-heavy Western diets.
Stunning photography by Kim Jonker brings the dishes to life, whetting appetites and setting a high standard.
This collaborative effort unites two chefs, a dietitian-nutritionist, and a doctor:
Featuring a preface by food historian Florent Quellier (CNRS Chair, François-Rabelais University), insights from nutrition professor Marie Marquis (University of Montreal), and recipes from Michelin-starred Régis Marcon (Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid), Kerala-born chef Beena Paradin, and Quebec's Johanne Vigneau.
'Do You Know How to Taste… Legumes?' - Presses de l'EHESP - August 2014 - €22
