SPIRIT OF THE EARTH (Hb) - Tapa dura

More than half the food stuffs eaten around the world originated on the American continents, and the great pre-Columbian cultures of Mexico and Central and South America were the largest contributors. The Inca, the Maya, and the Aztec brought now-ubiquitous ingredients like corn, tomatoes, potatoes and peppers, vanilla and chocolate to the table, forever changing the way the world eats. In fact, some of the hottest trends in contemporary cooking were created by these ancient cultures more than five centuries ago. In Spirit of the Earth, award-winning authors Beverly Cox and Martin Jacobs celebrate the rich cuisine of native Latin American cultures through 125 authentic recipes - from the peppery ajis and scrumptious ceviches of Peru and Chile to the honeyed desserts of the Yucatan Peninsula and the sophisticated moles of Mexico. Traditional recipes for familiar items like tortillas, tamales, and guacamole are included, as well as such delicacies as Pompano in Garlic and Chile Sauce, Quinoa and Potato Gratin, and Spicy Peanut Chowder. Full-color photographs styled with genuine Latin American artifacts enrich this substantial volume, and cultural essays by noted authorities Michael D. Coe and Jack Weatherford introduce each chapter. Recipes for appetizers and snacks, sauces and seasonings, side dishes, main courses, beverages, and desserts follow. A glossary, explanations of basic techniques, and a list of sources for authentic ingredients complete the book.

BEVERLY COX learned to cook in Paris, where she apprenticed with world-renowned chef Gaston LeNotre. She has written to cookbooks, including Sprit of the Harvest, coauthored with Martin Jacobs (Stewart, Tabori & Chang), which won James Beard and IACP Awards. She has traveled widely in Central and South America. MARTIN JACOBS is an award-winning food photographer who has photographed more than 40 cookbooks. His fascination with food history and native cultures led him to Beverly Cox, with whom he has collaborated on three books and a regular column on cooking for Native Peoples magazine.