Customer Reviews

The Arabian Delights Cookbook: Mediterranean Cuisines from Mecca to Marrakesh

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I was fortunate enough to run across this book in my library a couple of years ago, and have been searching for my own copy ever since. I finally found one (right condition/price) this week, and I can't wait for it to be delivered.

Not only do the recipes sound fabulous, but it is a "readable" book. Weiss-Armush explains from the perspective of an outsider rather than one born and raised in the region. She tells of her lessons learned, and mistakes made, and just generally offers a fascinating look at the world she entered.

Great information from culinary, cultural and social aspects.

If only our relationship with the Middle East could start with food and cookbooks, there would be more understanding in the world. I am also an American wife of a Middle Easterner and I greatly enjoy Anne Marie's personal stories about her interactions with her Syrian family. Although my Egyptian family is very different, I still recognize the love and warmth, the hospitality and much of the food she writes about. I especially like the Upside-Down Pilaf with Eggplant, Green Beans in Light Olive Oil Sauce, Pumpkin Soup Anyday and Garlicky Grilled Fish. Anne Marie has added her American touch to many of these dishes, especially in making the assembly easier, but retains the delicious flavors of the originals.