The Soul of Spice - by Keith Sarasin (Hardcover)

About the Book

Unveil the rich and vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine with The Soul of Spice, a stunning cookbook that brings the culinary treasures of India right to your kitchen. From the earthy spices of the North to the fiery curries of the South, this book takes you on a delicious journey through one of the world's most beloved cuisines.

Book Synopsis

Perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, this cookbook features a collection of authentic recipes that are as diverse as India itself. Savor creamy butter chicken, master the art of biryani, and discover the irresistible crunch of samosas--all beautifully presented with step-by-step instructions and expert cooking tips. Whether you're preparing a comforting home meal or planning a feast for friends, each recipe promises bold and unforgettable flavors.

Inside you'll find:

• 150+ recipes for classic dishes from every region of India
• A history of Indian food
• A detailed breakdown of fundamental ingredients
• Vibrant photography capturing the spirit of India

Rediscover the magic of spices, learn the secrets behind iconic dishes, and bring the soul of Indian cooking to life. Whether you're a foodie, a traveler, or simply curious about this dynamic cuisine, your next flavorful adventure begins here.

For over a decade, chef Keith Sarasin has studied food from the Indian subcontinent. From working with chefs, food researchers, and archeologists across the subcontinent, chef Keith's passion for the history, culture, and cuisine of the subcontinent drives his take on his dishes.

"When an American Chef willingly sets foot in an Indian kitchen, insists on training under an Indian woman and takes on the interminable challenge of introducing Indian food to the west --they're either irrational or awfully brave."

--Bruite Magazine India

Review Quotes

I always love expending my cooking skills, and this book was stunning to read through. Full of mouth-watering recipes, I cannot wait to try them ALL. Beautiful pictures and great explanations for those who didn't grow up cooking Indian food.---- Tabitha Paine, NetGalley Reviewer

So much variety included in this cookbook, many recognizable classics but also some recipes some may be unfamiliar with which is great. Lots of different meat and veggie options and takes you through the whole meal, including accompaniments.---- Rebecca Glen, NetGalley Reviewer

The Soul of Spice is approachable with easy-to-follow recipes, inspiring pictures, and additional information, making this perfect for novice to experienced cooks. The first 57 pages of this 401-page book are full of introductory information including a fantastic glossary and list of common spices. If you are new to cooking this type of cuisine, this is so helpful and appreciated! Recipes in this book are written in a simple-to-follow manner with a list of ingredients that is not overwhelming. Most, if not all, ingredients will be easy for most people to find in hometown grocery stores or online.----Aftan Damon, NetGalley Reviewer

This cookbook is absolutely gorgeous. From the stunning photography to the thoughtful format and beautifully written recipe descriptions, it's clear how much heart went into this. Keith Sarasin weaves history, culture, and personal stories throughout, making this feel like more than just a cookbook. It feels like a love letter to spices and the traditions they carry. The recipes are approachable and well explained, and the pictures alone will make you want to dive right in. Highly recommend for anyone who loves cooking, food history, or just a cookbook you'll actually sit down and read.---- Kaitlyn Laycoax, NetGalley Reviewer

This isn't just a cookbook, though it does contain some tantalizing and easy to follow recipes. The Soul of Spice is a rich tapestry woven with history, culture, personal anecdotes, and a deep, almost spiritual reverence for the spices that have shaped our world. I particularly enjoyed the personal reflections and anecdotes sprinkled throughout the book. They add a warmth and intimacy that makes you feel like you're having a conversation with a knowledgeable and passionate friend. The Soul of Spice is a must-read for anyone who loves food, history, or simply a beautifully written book that celebrates the richness of our world. It's a book to savor, to learn from, and to inspire you to look at your spice rack with a newfound appreciation. Highly recommended!---- Katrina Davies, NetGalley Reviewer

To be honest, when reading a cookbook, I am unlikely to read the introduction from the author, or stories related to the recipes. However, the stories the author told were such a delight to read, I really enjoyed that aspect of it. On top of that, the recipes sound absolutely amazing, and to have recipes so that I can try them myself is so exciting!---- Erin Crossway, NetGalley Reviewer