Chesnok. Cooking from My Corner of the Diaspora. Recipes from Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Cen wer. angielska

Polina Chesnakova's distinctive voice resonates in her latest culinary masterpiece, *Chesnok: Recipes with Love from Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Beyond*. Celebrated by Diana Henry, a James Beard Award-winning author, as an exuberant and heartfelt work, this cookbook is a genuine tribute to the flavors of Chesnakova's upbringing. Born in Ukraine to Russian and Armenian parents hailing from Georgia, she developed her love for cooking by learning at the side of her mother and aunts. The book features an impressive collection of over 110 recipes, highlighting the diverse and vibrant cuisines of the region. From the tangy Georgian tkemali (sour plum sauce) and the buttery Armenian gata (pastry) to traditional Ukrainian varenyky (dumplings) and Russian favorites like golubtsy (stuffed cabbage rolls) and medovik (honey cake), each recipe tells a story of cultural richness and heritage.Interwoven with these culinary delights are essays, narratives, and profiles of the remarkable culinary influences in her life. The recipes reflect the diversity of the communities and the immigrant experiences that shaped them, offering a flavorful narrative of the Soviet diaspora. While Chesnok is a celebration for those tracing roots back to this heritage, it is equally a treasure for anyone eager to delve into these vibrant cultures, expand their culinary repertoire, and discover the deep histories encapsulated in these beloved dishes and traditions.