This is a slim but attractively presented recipe book, with a fabulous cover. New Zealand Red Cross has compiled the book with the purpose of giving former refugees an opportunity to share their culture, stories and their favourite foods. There are 29 recipes from Colombia, Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, Burundi, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Somalia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Cambodia and Poland, along with personal stories from many of the contributors.
The recipes range from breads and starters, mains and desserts and sweets. The Crispy Vegetable Pakoras caught my eye from the breads and starters section, as well as the Egg Cutlet. In the mains section, the Fried Chicken Biryani, Tabbouleh and the Spicy Chicken Curry stood out as great dishes to make. And I definitely want to make the Watalappam from the dessert section.
It was inspiring to read stories of former refugees who now call New Zealand home, and it is wonderful they have shared their recipes and stories with us. This is a small book packed with diversity and hope, and it also highlights the invaluable work that Red Cross does in New Zealand and around the world.
Reviewer: Iain McKenzie
Red Cross, RRP $25.00