Book tip of the week: Vegetarian

The great cookbook by Paul Ivic
© DK Verlag / Ingo Pertramer
© DK Verlag / Ingo Pertramer
24. February 2025 |

Editorial team

Paul Ivic, the celebrated chef of Vienna’s Michelin-starred restaurant TIAN, has created a true masterpiece of vegetarian cuisine with his book “Vegetarian – The Great Cookbook”. The book is not just a collection of 300 recipes suitable for everyday use, but rather a declaration of love for the versatility of vegetables and the art of preparing them at the highest level.

The book is divided into clearly structured chapters, ranging from product knowledge to techniques and recipes. Ivic provides a comprehensive insight into the world of vegetable ingredients, from well-known classics to less common vegetables. Particularly impressive is the ‘leaf to root’ philosophy, which not only promotes waste avoidance but also conveys respect for the whole plant.

The recipes, such as an iced bell pepper soup or braised pointed cabbage, impress with their simplicity and sophistication at the same time. Ivic shows that vegetarian dishes don’t just have to be side dishes, but can be the main protagonists on the plate. He attaches great importance to sustainability and regionality, which is a recurring theme throughout the book.

In addition to the content, the book is also visually and haptically impressive. The photographs by Ingo Pertramer give the recipes an aesthetic depth that makes you want to cook them again. The elegant cover with ribbon marker underlines the high-quality character of this book and makes it a real gem in any kitchen.

Info:
DK Publishing House
ISBN 978-3-8310-4651-5
400 pages

The importance of a vegetarian diet

A vegetarian diet has numerous benefits – both for your own health and for the environment. Numerous studies have shown that avoiding meat can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer. The high proportion of vegetables, pulses, wholegrain products and nuts ensures a balanced supply of vitamins, minerals and fiber.

In addition, a plant-based diet makes a significant contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as the production of animal-based foods – especially meat – is extremely resource-intensive. Every step towards more plant-based meals is a step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Paul Ivic's work makes an important contribution here by showing how delicious and creative vegetarian dishes can be – and that enjoyment and sustainability can go hand in hand.

Our conclusion

“Vegetarian – The Great Cookbook” is more than just a recipe book; it is a source of inspiration for anyone who wants to eat more consciously. Ivic's expertise and passion make this book an indispensable standard work that appeals to beginners and experienced amateur cooks alike. The mixture of product knowledge, professional knowledge and creative recipes offers invaluable added value – both for the kitchen and for a more sustainable life.

A la table, s'il vous plaît! A la table, s'il vous plaît! A la table, s'il vous plaît! A la table, s'il vous plaît!
Copyright for the featured images used:
© DK Verlag / Ingo Pertramer

Book tip of the week: Tunisian vegan

An aromatic journey through Tunisian cuisine

With “Tunisian vegan”, Malek M’hiri takes us on a colorful and aromatic journey through Tunisian cuisine – without any animal products. This book is more than just a collection of recipes: it tells the story of tradition, family and the unique flavors of Tunisia.

The 60 recipes show how diverse and creative Tunisian cuisine is, even in its plant-based form. Classics such as brightly colored shakshuka, spicy dumplings or steaming couscous become an experience through Malek’s vegan interpretations. The playful approach to ingredients and spices is particularly charming – there is less weighing up and more combining and seasoning. It is precisely this freedom that makes you want to discover the cuisine according to your own preferences.

The variety of recipes ranges from sweet Sunday breakfasts with millet pudding to hearty street food creations such as brik. Harissa, garlic and Tunisian olive oil play a central role and give the dishes their typical intensity. Malek not only conveys the recipes themselves, but also the knowledge of spices, ingredients and traditional methods of preparation.

The book’s personal touch is particularly impressive: the recipes are based on Malek’s family history and combine Jewish, Amazigh and Tunisian influences. This cultural depth makes each dish a piece of lived history that can be relived in the kitchen at home.

Info:
Löwenzahn Verlag
ISBN 978-3-7066-2990-4
160 pages

World-class Chinese hospitality

Wing in Hong Kong wins the Gin Mare Art of Hospitality Award 2025

Hong Kong’s fine dining restaurant Wing has won the prestigious Gin Mare Art of Hospitality Award 2025. Why this award goes far beyond good service – and what makes Vicky Cheng’s philosophy an international role model.

Book tip of the week: 200 x Italy

The XXL cooking and baking school

“200 x Italy – The XXL Cooking and Baking School” is a real feast for all lovers of Italian cuisine. This set of two comprehensive cookery and baking books takes us on a culinary journey across Italy – from the Alps to Sicily. With over 200 authentic recipes and numerous background stories, it invites you to experience the diversity and tradition of Italian cuisine directly in your own kitchen.

We are particularly impressed by the range of recipes, which really doesn’t leave any area out. From classic antipasti to hearty main courses such as risotto alla milanese or arancini to sweet temptations such as torta della nonna and amaretti, there is something for every taste. The clear instructions make cooking easy even for beginners, while experienced amateur cooks will be inspired by the variety of dishes to try something new.

The lovingly designed reports, anecdotes and atmospheric photographs are a highlight of the book. They manage to perfectly capture the charm and joie de vivre of Italy and convey a feeling of dolce vita that goes beyond the mere preparation of the recipes. The stories about traditional festivals and regional specialties make the book more than just a collection of recipes – it is a declaration of love to Italian cuisine and culture.

Info:
Edition Michael Fischer / EMF Verlag
ISBN 978-3-7459-2288-2
640 pages

quick & dirty
© DK Publishing House
Book tip of the week: Vegetarian

Paul Ivic, the celebrated chef of Vienna’s Michelin-starred restaurant TIAN, has created a true masterpiece of vegetarian cuisine with his book “Vegetarian – The Great Cookbook”. The book is not just a collection of 300 recipes suitable for everyday use, but rather a declaration of love for the versatility of vegetables and the art of preparing them at the highest level.

The book is divided into clearly structured chapters, ranging from product knowledge to techniques and recipes. Ivic provides a comprehensive insight into the world of vegetable ingredients, from well-known classics to less common vegetables. Particularly impressive is the ‘leaf to root’ philosophy, which not only promotes waste avoidance but also conveys respect for the whole plant.

The recipes, such as an iced bell pepper soup or braised pointed cabbage, impress with their simplicity and sophistication at the same time. Ivic shows that vegetarian dishes don’t just have to be side dishes, but can be the main protagonists on the plate. He attaches great importance to sustainability and regionality, which is a recurring theme throughout the book.

In addition to the content, the book is also visually and haptically impressive. The photographs by Ingo Pertramer give the recipes an aesthetic depth that makes you want to cook them again. The elegant cover with ribbon marker underlines the high-quality character of this book and makes it a real gem in any kitchen.

Info:
DK Publishing House
ISBN 978-3-8310-4651-5
400 pages