New books on the shelf

Two weeks ago I bought these three books on Amazon. I thought they would be good but I didn't know how good! The first is a gardening book. This book is completely amazing. When they say "illustrated guide" they really mean it. It's so full of information I can't imagine I would ever need another book. Though a desert gardening book helps since I live when the summer temperatures reach 110. But this book is like taking a gardening class. If you are new to veggie gardening or slightly seasoned like me you should have this book on your shelf for reference. I feel it's invaluable.

So this book as you can see from the title is all about whole grain baking. Since I've really tried to branch out and use different flours I found out almost all baking books were inadequate when it comes to whole grain baking. No one seems to have taken the time to figure out how to make the whole grains lighter. Luckily Kim Boyce did take the time.

The first thing I made from this book was the barley jam scones. I cut them a little wonky but they are so so yummy. They are quick to make and even quicker to eat. The book is broken down into section by different grains, all of which I have in my pantry. I find using different flours really spices up you baking as each flour has a different taste to it. Tomorrow I'm going to try making the blueberry buckle with spelt flour. I'll take pictures and let you know how it turns out.

And now for the big guns. This book is awesome. The recipes look so delicious that I didn't even realize that it is entirely vegetarian. The first thing I made from the book was sparkling ginger cardamom drink, so refreshing. Then I made the green lentil soup with curry brown butter. Oh my goodness.

This soup will take your taste buds to a whole new level. Especially the brown butter with curry powder. Even Daniele who is not a fan of most soups said it was really fantastic. I have three other recipes from this book lined up in our menu this week. I'm really looking forward to making them.

Check these books out, you may never be able to put them back on the shelf! I know I haven't. These three have been floating around the house from room to room. I read cookbooks like story books....