Recipes from the Moon: More Recipes from the Horn of the Moon Cafe. - book reviews

Vegetarian Times, Oct, 1995 by Bryanna Clark Grogan

Horn of the Moon Cafe is a popular vegetarian restaurant in Montpelier, Vt., owned by author Gary Beardsworth. More of his recipes - both at the cafe and in the book - are vegan than those of former owner Ginny Callan, author of the well-received Horn of the Moon Cookbook (Harper-Perennial, 1987). Most of the bread and dessert recipes are vegan, or give vegan substitutions. They include American classics like Whole Grain Cinnamon Rolls, Maple-Corn Muffins and Raspberry Shortbread. Plenty of main dishes, soups and salads are also vegan, and include a nice mixture of American, Italian, Greek and Mexican recipes, with occasional Africanor Chinese-inspired items.

Recipes from the Moon emphasizes easy preparation rather than spectacular presentation. But the recipes are spectacular elegant. Monterey Chowder, a vegan soup made with lima beans, tomatoes and corn, and flavored with garlic, onions, chili and dill weed, is an innovative and delicious version of a dish that's usually rich with butter and cream. The Tofu-Vegetable Quiche, fun of lightly cooked vegetables, is another excellent vegan take on a dish that is typically off-limits to those who don't eat eggs and dairy. Beardsworth's Dairy-Free Pie Crust is notably low in fat, yet easy to handle and tender.

This cannot be characterized as a low-fat cookbook. The muffins are all egg-free (and can be dairy-free), but contain generously for sauteing. The modest number of desserts are all quite rich, but are special enough to be reserved for festive occasions. All and all, it's a well-balanced collection of recipes, both for casual entertaning and everyday meals.