( 1 reviews )
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Posted: Jan 1 2004
Ramona Abella takes the reader on an historical and culinary journey to old Cuba that will have you wanting to travel there. I enjoyed reading the heartfelt tribute to the author's family and her Cuban homeland. Anyone with Cuban or Spanish ancestry is guaranteed to find favorite recipes from their childhood in "From Cuba With Love". The wide variety of recipes provides everything needed to experience a Cuban meal - from the main course, side dishes, desserts, and even an assortment of beverages. The Arroz con Pollo is the absolute best Chicken with Rice recipe I have found anywhere! I think I have a new `covered dish' for whenever the occasion arises. This recipe is so easy to make that it practically cooks itself. Many of the recipes are for one serving. This is terrific for creating a special meal just for myself or calculating the exact recipe needed when cooking for any size group. I also enjoyed the tips on kitchen behaviors that are very helpful in taking the `work' out of the cooking experience. Even the most experienced chef can learn from these tips that range from planning the meal to easy cleanup habits. Ramona's psychotherapist perspective also provides a very interesting insight into the role food plays in our moods and emotional behaviors. In her own words, "The affirmation of love, life, creativity, self-expression, and having lots of fun in the process, that's what cooking is all about!" This is not only a cookbook I will want to keep handy in my kitchen, but also a reflection of Cuba that I will want to read and enjoy over and over again.
