We are always happy to add a new book to our library of meticulous cook books that Sur la Table has been building. Confident that the taste level will be high, and the recipes exact, we plunge into their recipes with elan. Everyday Grilling, a welcome addition to the bookshelf, excites with its assortment of recipes that are grill-ready, from appetizers to desserts. Yes, desserts, and any reader will want to try Grilled Pineapple and Pound Cake. The grill is no longer reserved for a single meat dish (often the London broil), but is now the outdoor spot where a full meal can be produced.
Everyday Grilling begins with a guide to great grilling. Briefly, but clearly set forth, this incudes tips on Getting Ready to Grill; The Griller's Toolbox; Cooking on Charcoal Grills; Direct Fire, Indirect Fire, Cooking on Gas Grills; How to Grill; Specialty Grill Gadgets and Techniques; and Using Rubs, Marinades, Bastes, Mops, and Finishing Sauces. With these techniques under the belt, the book is then divided into sections for Appetizers, Salads and Sandwiches (yes, grilled salad), Vegetables, Main Dishes and finally Desserts.
There are recipes for new combinations, such as Grilled Mozzarella and Anchovies in Chard Leaves, as well as for startling grill ideas, such as that Pineapple Pound Cake or, even more surprising, Grilled Romaine with a Six-Minute Farm Egg, or a Grilled Tuna Niçoise with Anchovy Vinaigrette.
Cooking over fire is an ancient method of food preparation so we should not be startled at the range of foods that are grill-worthy. But we are surprised, and perhaps we are essentially rediscovering an art that we forgot. Next to the meat that is grilling, make Sweet Potatoes on the Grill or Grilled Carrots with Fresh Thyme to discover how very sweet carrots and sweet potatoes can taste.
There are recipes for classic meats and fish, such as Grilled Country Pork Chops with Bourbon-Basted Grilled Peaches, Lamb Burgers with Grilled Red Onions and Feta, Grilled Swordfish with Peperonata or Grille Scallops with Wilted Spinach and Lemon-Caper Butter. Culled from world-wide cuisines, there is great variety.
For that sweet tooth, try Planked Papayas with Fresh Lime Drizzle, a Grilled Banana Split, or Grilled Nectarines with Vanilla Ice Cream and Crushed Amaretti.
This is an effervescent book, bubbling with fresh recipe ideas. There are color photos throughout. Everyday Grilling is a special gift to the husband or father yo love on Father's Day.
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