Arabesque: A Taste of Morocco, Turkey, and Lebanon

I have been a devoted follower of Roden ever since my first successful attempt to make tabouleh, and I’ve bought every book of hers since—relishing not only the way her recipes tend to open up new possibilities in the most minimal of kitchens, but her steadfast belief that to really appreciate the taste of a dish, you should understand the culture that created it. Roden’s own interest in cooking came from just this impulse—a painter by profession, she wrote her first book in an attempt to evoke a lost childhood in Cairo. In her approach to food, people are as important as ingredients. Thus, in The Book of Jewish Food recipes are accompanied by historical anecdotes, personal memories, photographs, letters and diary excerpts; it show more has become one of the treasures of my cookbook library. The publication of a new Roden book is an occasion for celebration and a trip to the grocery store. And Arabesque: A Taste of Morocco, Turkey, & Lebanon (Knopf; $35) is definitely cause for celebration. . .read full review show less

I wish this had more pictures that would communicate how awesome these dishes are. I was blessed to know what each recipe looks like! Overall, it's a REALLY good cookbook with authentic recipes. I know that it is probably directed to westerns and not middle easterns, but there is no real difference between that and a local cookbook. I actually love accurate universal measurements, so I prefer this one.

Can't wait to attempt Lahma Bel Ajeen and most of the salads. :D

While I wouldn't keep this for my shelves, I would definitely borrow it from the library again. The photos alone are worth browsing the entire book. So are the bits about Morocco, Turkey, and Lebanon. Found three recipes I want to try: Tomato and Rice Soup, Baba Ghanouj, and Hummus.

Arabesque covers Morocco, Turkey and Lebanon. I still think Moroccan will be the new Thai and I have two tagines waiting to be used. I also have preserved lemons in the refrigerator. My husband is half Lebanese so we are well acquainted with Lebanese food. It is amazing how much variation in food preparation occurs even in a small area of the world. Arabesque has many juicy photographs to whet the appetite and a bit of cultural history to go with each country. Another wonderful thing about cookbooks is you cannot gain weight just looking at them.

I've yet to cook anything from this book because everytime I think "Hey, why don't I cook something from this great book?" I spend hours and hours reading it -- not just the historical linkages but the recipes are beautifully written...

I'm a Claudia Roden fan and this book is the best. Beautiful to look at. Wonderful to dream about. Terrific recipes. Mesmerizing stories about countries and cuisines and history of their food habits..

Everything we have tried from this book came out wonderfully (and we have tried a lot of the recipes already). She is a joy to read, as well. Flawless.