Wholesome Bowls

July 1, 2023

The introduction to Delport's book (originally published in South Africa as Whole) sets the stage: this is a cookbook that adheres to the Michael Pollan school of dietary planning: "Eat food, not too much, mostly plants." While acknowledging that negative or anxious talk about food can have adverse consequences, the author includes admonishments about which foods to eat and which ones to consume in moderation, if at all. Reminders about clean, healthy eating also abound. A description of pantry essentials and the basics of cooking grains round out the introductory material. Recipes themselves are presented by meal, moving from breakfast and smoothie bowls through lunch, dinner, and dessert. Some dishes are eclectic, while others are inspired by specific national or ethnic cuisines. Directions are straightforward and prefaced with a brief descriptive paragraph. The photography is vibrant and attractive, highlighting the varied ingredients for each dish. While some recipes include meat, dairy, and fish, the emphasis is squarely on fresh, high-quality vegetables and spices. VERDICT An excellent source of recipes for one-bowl meals made with whole foods that emphasizes clean eating.--Rebecca Brody

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