Innovative dishes

“A rose by any other name...” Leigh Drew’s cookbook showcases delectable recipes inspired by cuisine from many countries. The fact that this is vegan cooking in no way detracts from her creative, innovative dishes.

Whether you are new to this type of cuisine or already a keen vegan foodie, Leigh’s book takes you on a delicious adventure.

Her recipes will appeal to all kinds of taste buds and will surprise the sceptics and carnivores among us.

Her introduction explains the principles of veganism, founded on an absence of animal products of any kind.

She borrows ingredients and techniques from around the world as she conjures up variety and flavour.

As noted by many chefs, we ‘eat with our eyes’; Leigh’s vegan cooking produces tantalising textures, colours and tastes to entice the most jaundiced palate.

Vegetarians may decide to eat animal-based foods such as eggs and dairy products and wear leather, wool and silk, whereas vegans choose to avoid all animal-based products including dairy, honey and eggs and also eschew personal and household products that contain by-products or have been tested by animals.

Veganism is three-pronged: animal rights, environmental protection (minimising land and water usage) and health. Leigh shows us how to use a huge variety of vegetables and legumes, soy, nuts, seeds, whole grains and fruit and reap its health benefits.

Still finding its place in the mainstream, these delicious recipes will allay your suspicions or concerns about veganism as you savour its rich and satisfying diet.

All ingredients are now widely available on the supermarket shelves.

Whether you believe in the ethics or not, Leigh’s book is a cornucopia of beguiling breakfasts, appealing baked goods, intriguing herbs and spices, wonderful pancakes, waffles and muffins, tempting rice and pasta dishes and divine desserts.

Too busy enjoying this fresh, delicious food, you won’t have the time or inclination to miss meats.