Cooking with Texas Highways
Edited by Nola McKey
University of Texas Press, 2005
ISBN: 0-292-70629-4
Reviewed by Rochelle Caviness
The great state of Texas is known for its cultural diversity and history. The intersection of these various cultures and social groups has created an amalgam of culinary cuisines that is uniquely Texan. This interaction of culinary traditions transcends the moniker of Tex-Mex cuisine. Rather it is more international in flare that is unified by a predominance of strong flavors, hearty portions, and zest for life - low cal and low fat dishes are few and far between!
Cooking with Texas Highways, edited by Nola McKey is a gorgeous, well-illustrated cookbook that offers an outstanding collection of 'Texas' recipes. This book includes more than 250 recipes that originally appeared in Texas Highways, the state's official travel magazine. This collection offers readers a mouth-watering sample of the many diverse dishes that epitomize the Texas culinary tradition. Ranging from ethnic dishes such as Matzo Ball Soup and Thai Pesto to traditional Texas home-cooking dishes such as sourdough flapjacks and fried chicken, this cookbook explores the culinary roots of modern Texas cuisine - including a range of Tex-Mex dishes. From dishes heavily laded with beef, to vegetarian dishes such as Enchiladas del Jardin (Garden Enchiladas) this cookbook has something to suit any taste or culinary whim.
Within the pages of this book, you'll find recipes from almost every major ethnic group in Texas, as well as a variety of recipes from popular restaurants, respected chefs, and of course, home cooks that have tired, tested, and perfected many of their own recipes. The recipes in this cookbook are organized thematically, including sections on snacks & beverages, breads, soups & salads, main dishes, vegetables & sides, sauces & spreads, and deserts. There is also a section of Dutch-oven dishes that includes detailed information on the techniques associated with outdoor cookery.
The recipes are easily to follow, and most are annotated with special details about the history of the recipe, extra cooking tips, or information on the recipe's author. Scattered throughout, you'll also find information on the Texas Highways magazine and Texas cooking.
The color illustrations in the Cooking with Texas Highways are mouth-watering and the recipes will inspire you to expand your repertoire both when cooking for the family or when entertaining. Enjoy!
A sampling of the recipes that you'll find in the Cooking with Texas Highways include:
