More Than Just Recipes: The Essential Ayurvedic Cookbook

I love a good book full of healthy recipes. But you know what I love more? A good book full of recipes and more. Like in depth information on ways of eating and details on ingredients with which I might not be familiar. That’s exactly what The Essential Ayurvedic Cookbook is — it doesn’t only provide 200 ayurvedic recipes, but it also has nearly 100 pages of information that anyone interested in ayurvda will devour right alongside their dal.
Because, here’s the thing — there’s a lot to understand regarding even the most basic ayurvedic principles and guidelines. I mean, sure, you could just make the recipes. And there’s nothing wrong with that! But you know how we roll — knowledge is power, especially when it comes to food. Even if you’re not necessarily looking to make the move to an ayurvedic diet, you’re probably interested in healthy eating tips, right? (You don’t even have to answer. I know you are.)
And that’s sort of what ayurveda is all about. “Ayurveda was not intended to be a rigid approach,” author Lois A. Leonhardi writes, saying, “In fact, the original teaching of ayurveda consisted of broad general guidance, like recommending that people eat wholesome foods and avoid unwholesome foods.” Doesn’t sound too intimidating when you look at it that way!
While I love the wide variety of recipes (Cinnamon Lotus Edamame Saute! Pureed Lemon Chickpea Soup! Ginger Broth!), I feel like it’s the resource material in the front section of the book that makes it a truly valuable addition to any healthy eater’s bookshelf. From “Top Ten Essential Ayurvedic Tips for Wellness” to “Stocking Your Pantry,” there’s information in here that anyone from a novice to a highly skilled home chef will dig.
Got any cookbooks offering far more than just recipes sitting around your house? —Kristen