****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
I was introduced to Southwestern cooking by a friend and originally purchased this book as a gift for her. After helping to prepare a few of the recipes, I knew I had to have a copy for myself. I've tried a number of entrees, appetizers and desserts from this book and I'm yet to be disappointed. Some of my favorites include the Pecan and Chocolate Pie (great variation of an old favorite), Sonoran Pasta (grilled goodness), Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding with Banana Caramel Sauce (so decadent you'll wonder how you'll every get out of bed the next day), Greens with Ancho Dressing, Blue Cheese and Toasted Pecans (easy blend with just the right amount of heat), Chicken Chipotle Nachos with Avocado Cream (smooth and creamy with some kick), and the list goes on and on. Quite a few of the recipes are a bit time intensive but they are worth every bite. The flavors are outrageous. This book has turned me into a big fan of Southwest cooking and I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great gift or addition to their own cookbook library. Plus, the photography is beautiful with pictures of many of the dishes. Also, Barbara Pool Fenzl included interesting facts along side margins like the health benefits of chiles. I enjoy reading these because they are informative and short enough to hold my attention. Plus, they are dispersed throughout the book rather than overloading the front with a bunch of background info that few people take the time to read.
