Crazy Water Pickled Lemons: Enchanting Dishes from the Middle East, Mediterranean and North Africa

Just like Roast Figs, Sugar Snow, this book is sorted in a rather non-traditional way by topic, which makes for an interesting way of discovering the recipes. But unfortunately, just like Pure Simple Cooking: Effortless Meals Every Day, this one is a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to recipe reliability. Some recipes were really good, some of them - not so much. Test and practice before you serve it to guests!

For those interested in Mediterranean fare, this is a great book to start the adventure. Beautifully illustrated with sumptuous photos, you're bound to find your mouth watering. The book is divided into chapters with tempting titles like: The spice Trail, A Bowl of Fresh Herbs and Pith and Skin, Ms Henry offers a variety of recipes that home cooks can easily manage. Oven temps, measurements, etc. are displayed in imperial & metric; Even gas marks are stated. I loved the Herb-Scented Chocolate Truffles recipe which lists sprigs of fresh lavender as an ingredient and the Fennel, Pomegranate and Feta Salad is delicious.
The directions plus some added friendly tips are easy to understand. I have found many culturally based recipe books to be intimidating. This user friendly book is definitely not. Most ingredients can be found in your regular grocery store. Some ingredients may require a broader search. That's half the fun!