The New Now and Zen Epicure

Vegetarian Journal, March-April, 2003 by Debra Wasserman

By Miyoko Nishimoto Schinner

Miyoko Schinner is the founder of Now and Zen, a vegan food company that produces many delicious natural foods products, including UnTurkey, Hip Whip, and vegan cakes. Miyoko's latest book, The New Now and Zen Epicure, is a fantastic vegan cookbook that features color photos of several of the dishes. Also, all the recipes in this book have their nutritional breakdowns.

Among the recipes you'll find one section devoted to Mousses, Pates, and Terrines, and another called Savory Pastries, which includes tiny tarts, quiches, and other delights. A recipe for making homemade gluten (seitan) is included as well as numerous seitan recipes.

As I stated above, Miyoko is famous for her scrumptious desserts, and the recipes in this book live up to her reputation. You can try a Chocolate Almond Raspberry Torte, Cashew Cheesecake, Chocolate Dipped Shortbread, Baked Apples Filled with Chestnut Puree, and Orange Bavarian.

The New Now and Zen Epicure (ISBN 1-57067-114-1) is published by The Book Publishing Company. This 244-page book can be purchased from The Vegetarian Resource Group by sending $25 (includes postage and handling) to VRG, P.O. Box 1463, Baltimore, MD 21203. Reviewed by Debra Wasserman.