Super Natural Cooking or How to Cook Like a Pot Smoking Lesbian

Some time ago I was introduced, by Connoisseur Jon, to a cookbook by Heidi Swanson called Super Natural Cooking.  I was struck by the picture of Ms. Swanson on the cover, with her large hoop earrings and multi-colored bandana holding back her unruly hair, and my roommate and I dubbed the book Super Natural Cooking or How to Cook Like a Pot Smoking Lesbian.  I immediately went through the book looking at all the eye catching full color photos and was quite tempted by the recipes presented.  So tempted that, once back in NYC, I went and purchased a copy of the cookbook for myself. 

Super Natural Cooking is a book all about, as anyone could guess from subtitle How to Cook Like a Pot Smoking Lesbian, using natural whole foods in your cooking.  And since everyone knows pot smoking lesbians have a weak streak for animals there is no meat in any of the recipes; however, they are chalk-full of whole cream, cheese, and milk.  The recipes are generally full of spices and flavors and I have found that they do not really need much altering.  It is such a relief for a recipe to call for the five cloves of garlic that are actually needed instead of the one clove that Mrs. Smith from South Dakota uses in her prize-winning “lasagna”. 

I have made several of the recipes in Super Natural Cooking and all have turned out fabulously.  From soup, to main courses, to dessert this book really covers the gamut.  Another great thing about the recipes in this cookbook is their versatility.  I used one of the salads to top some grilled chicken one summer night with truly magnificent results. 

Super Natural Cooking gives several narratives touting the benefits of various natural foods which I have found both interesting and helpful.  It also has descriptions and pictures of various grains that you won’t find in your everyday grocery store.

For those looking for both flavor and health in their diet the book is a must.  For the others I hear many McDonalds are now open 24hrs and have 99 cent ATMs.\

Make sure your try the chilled Guacamole Soup with Topopos and Rich Chocolate Mousse made with silken tofu and rice milk.  Pure heaven!