“Melissa’s Great Book of Produce” (Wiley, $29.95)
Do we really need another encyclopedia of produce?
Half a dozen of them have been published in recent years, and I wonder whether people really need more of these books, which typically offer alphabetized entries and recipes for everything from apples to zucchini.
I was suspicious of “Melissa’s Great Book of Produce” (Wiley, 2006, $29.95). Thomas wrote the book for Joe and Sharon Hernandez, owners of Melissa’s World Variety Produce, a company that specializes in offering often unusual fruits and vegetables at mainstream grocers.
While Thomas’ book covers the basics – the sort of stuff we don’t need – many of its hundreds of entries cover less common items, such as sapoto (an apple-like fruit) and salicornia (a crisp seaweed-like green). The sort of stuff that’s invaluable.
In that way the book is a bit of an ad. The company just happens to sell many of the unusual items this book covers. But since it’s not overt, I’m willing to consider that this is experts sharing their wisdom more than a company pitching its products.
It’s a good roadmap to the growing assortment of more exotic produce showing up at grocers. It has an approachable style and includes attractive photography, useful nutrition information, and a good selection of serving tips and recipes.|J.M. Hirsch, The Associated Press
Jicama and Mango Salad
From Cathy Thomas’ “Melissa’s Great Book of Produce.” Makes 6 servings.
Ingredients
Directions
In a small bowl, whisk together juice, zest, sugar, salt and vinegar. Continue whisking and add oil in a slow stream.
Set aside.
Place the jicama in a medium bowl. Use a vegetable peeler to peel the skin of the mango.
Carefully cut the flesh of the mango away from the large, oval pit. Cut the mango into short, thin strips, and add to jicama.
Add the dressing and cilantro and toss.
Arrange the lettuce on a platter. Top with the salad. Garnish with orange wedges, if desired.
