written by Karen Barnaby, published by HarperCollins, 2004.

I spent the day with Karen Barnaby again, so I thought it only fitting that I write about her cookbook first.

Did I really spend the day with Karen? Well, technically not in the flesh, but I did spend the day with her via her amazing cookbook “the Low-Carb Gourmet.”

I can honestly say that I have tried (and loved) more recipes from this cookbook than from any other cookbook I own. Usually, I am pretty happy if I find 1 or 2 recipes I like in a cookbook. Needless to say, I am ecstatic about the dozens of recipes I absolutely love in “the Low-Carb Gourmet.”

The book is divided into usable categories of recipes such as desserts, fish, soups, what’s for breakfast?, and sauces and condiments. I’ve tried recipes from every category and have been pleasantly surprised by the yummy-ness and consistency of all the dishes I’ve made. Yes, Karen is a chef, but she can also write. Her recipes are easy to follow and often easy to make. Most of the ingredients can be purchased at your local grocery store. Any specialty ingredients are described in detail, with suggestions on how to use them and where to find them.

Karen also discusses the process of going low-carb. She describes many delicious low-carb foods in detail, and also provides numerous “boxes” of essential information throughout the book, including such gems as Splenda packet conversion, and the versatility of cauliflower (especially as a potato substitute).

Some of the recipes I make repeatedly: just the flax muffins - surprisingly moist and tender muffins with a hint of cinnamon; stir-fried edamame with garlic, chiles, and soy - this takes edamame to a whole new level - finger-lickin’ good! The cucumber salad with peanuts, coconut, and lime - a delightful blend of crunchy, salty, hot and sour; butter-wrinkled beans - simple and delectable; twice-baked cauliflower - an essential recipe, especially when I need a potato fix; basic back ribs with quick barbecue glaze - makes an oinker out of me every time. For dessert you must try Tamarian’s peanut butter-frosted brownies - my favourite dessert in the book, and one I could eat every day!

For me, a good cookbook is one I pick up with eager anticipation. I’ve tried sooo many of the recipes in “the Low Carb Gourmet,” and I can’t wait to try more. Another delicious low-carb meal is just around the corner …

Buy the Book

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