THE CATALAN KITCHEN

EMMA WARREN, SMITH STREET BOOKS, H/B, $65

This is a book that reflects Catalonia in many ways: recognisably Spanish but excitingly different; sophisticated sometimes, rustic and simple at other times; tempting and beautiful to look at. Many of these recipes are simple, especially in the ‘pica pica’ section (the Catalan version of tapas) starring humble ingredients such as anchovies, olives and salt cod. Catalonia is famed for its seafood, cured meat and pork products and these feature strongly here, often in combinations such as pork meatballs with cuttlefish, calamari stuffed with pork and mushrooms and clams with cava and jamón. Look out for the charming illustrations that introduce each chapter, and the photos redolent with the pleasures of this beautiful, varied and individual region. TW