In Sesame, Soy, Spice, Remy Morimoto Park, social media influencer and creator of the popular Veggiekins blog, shares many recipes inspired by her background: Korean on her father's side and Japanese and Taiwanese on her mother's. After spending a decade struggling with anorexia nervosa, Park found healing in vegan eating. She now uses her cooking to connect her plant-based lifestyle with her Asian roots.
Growing up in New Jersey, Taiwan, and Shanghai--before returning to New York for college--Park was exposed to many different cultures and cuisines. Her cookbook reflects this variety with an array of delectable meals, snacks, and sweets. Recipes include Shredded Korean BBQ Bulgogi Tofu, Garlic Smashed Potatoes with Shishito Peppers, Crispy Rice Salad, Popcorn Tofu, and Matcha Madeleines.
Sesame, Soy, Spice--with luscious pictures and fascinating anecdotes about cooking and eating with her family members and friends all across the world--is an homage to Park's heritage. She also candidly shares stories of her years of counting calories and avoiding food, making this a hopeful glimpse into the rekindling of a love of food after an eating disorder. With easy-to-follow recipes, explanations on where best to source specialty Asian ingredients, and inviting stories to explain how Park came to create each recipe, Sesame, Soy, Spice is a truly lovely cookbook. It's irresistible and perfect for vegan and gluten-free eaters, but it's sure to have a broader appeal for foodies and home cooks as well. --Jessica Howard, freelance book reviewer