Everyday Thai Cooking: Quick & Easy Family Style Recipes
*Starred Review* Chin’s latest collection (a previous one was 300 Best Rice Cooker Recipes, 2011) is filled with enthusiasm and energy—and, what’s probably more important, it includes nearly 100 recipes with exotic ingredients that are fairly accessible. If there is such a thing as a chip off the old (cooking) block, Chin qualifies, as the daughter of the late Leeann Chin (founder of her namesake restaurant chain). Those unfamiliar with the peculiarities of Asian dishes will appreciate the upfront advice, including preparing lemongrass and Thai chilies (for the latter, carefully and with latex surgical gloves), steaming, deep-frying, and knowing the secret to fluffy rice. Says she, “I love my rice cooker like I love my dog. It’s obedient, doesn’t talk back, and loves me unconditionally.” Recipes are categorized from appetizers to desserts and subclassified by different kinds of proteins. Both favorites and unique tastes are well represented, including pad Thai, chicken coconut soup, Thai BBQ pork, crying tiger lamb, coconut cake with mango, and Thai iced tea. The directions are easy to follow, and there are great color photographs. It’s no wonder Chin has been called the Asian Rachael Ray. --Barbara Jacobs