Complete Book of Mexican Cooking: A Cookbook
✍️ Ortiz, ElisabethA prize-winning guide to 340 traditional Mexican recipes and ingredients by Elisabeth Ortiz.
This volume functions as a practical manual for preparing authentic dishes rather than a narrative history. It bridges the gap between theory and practice by listing where to buy tools and spices. The inclusion of specific drink recipes like the Margarita expands the scope beyond food. Readers gain insight into the Corn Kitchen concept which underpins many staple items. The text avoids vague generalizations by naming exact dishes such as Bunuelos and Red Stew with Mountain Chiles. This specificity helps cooks visualize the final result before starting. The store list addresses a common hurdle for American home cooks attempting regional cuisine.
Published in 1985 by Random House, this mass market paperback reflects the mid-eighties American interest in regional ethnic cuisines. Ortiz focuses on traditional ingredients and methods available to US shoppers at that time. The book captures a specific moment when Mexican cooking was becoming more accessible through specialized store listings.
📝 Description: Complete Book of Mexican Cooking: A Cookbook
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Ortiz provides a prize-winning guide to 340 traditional recipes, focusing on concrete details rather than abstract theory. The Corn Kitchen concept and specific dish names like Bunuelos help cooks visualize outcomes clearly. The store list is a valuable asset for sourcing hard-to-find items. However, this book will not suit readers seeking modern fusion cuisine or those who prefer digital formats. It is strictly a traditional resource for serious home chefs willing to hunt for specific ingredients.
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📖 Who should read this
Home cooks seeking authentic Mexican dishes without vague instructions. Ideal for those wanting to master specific regional flavors and ingredients. Perfect for readers who appreciate practical guides over historical narratives. Suitable for kitchens ready to explore traditional techniques and exact spice blends for reliable results.