Customer Reviews

A Fistful of Lentils: Syrian-Jewish Recipes from Grandma Fritzie's Kitchen

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I haven't made a bad meal yet and my fiance is happy.

I enjoyed reading Ms. Abadi's book. Since I am Syrian-Jewish, I compared many of her stories to my own family. in addition, she quotes some people that I know. Unfortunately, however, the recipes are not reliable. Since the author's grandmother spent many years in Oklahoma, where Middle Eastern ingredients were not available, she relied on substitutes such as Worcestershire sauce which we do not use.
Every family cooks their own way. However some of the recipes will fail completely. For example, the Kibbe Nabilseeyah. The dough calls for 5 Tbs. water which is way too little. I would advise anyone who is a serious cook to wait for the second edition. This will give Miss Abadi a chance to correct the errors.

Jennifer Felicia Abadi's Fistful Of Lentils provides Syrian-Jewish recipes from her grandmother's kitchen, blending family anecdotes and stories of Syrian-Jewish history and culture with dishes the author grew up with. From Chicken with Prunes and Honey to an unusual Syrian Meat Chili-Stew, this is packed with appeal.

Going well beyond "the way to a man's heart" this book demonstrates the critical importance of food and its preparation in the life of a family. Written with love and care, beautifully illustrated with drawings and family photos, it is clear that Jennifer Abadi is carrying on--and well able to convey to others--a proud, meaningful tradition. And the recipes are wonderufl and varied; easy to follow, with delicious results.

Wow! I can't believe how amazing this book is - the family history is fascinating, the recipes are easy to follow (and very yummy) and the little antidotes w/the recipes are hysterical. The illustratations are beautiful - this book is a wonderful gift for anyone who loves to cook (and eat).

Not only are the recipes easy to follow but the book is beautiful! The stories of Ms. Abadi's family are heart warming and funny. I have two - one to cook from and one to put out on my table. A must have for anyone who loves cooking!

This outstanding book deserves at least 10 stars! It rates as one of the best cookbooks I own. The recipes are carefully and beautifully written, as well as delicious. I feel as though Ms. Abadi is standing in my kitchen, by my side, as I prepare each recipe, making sure that it tastes just right. Buy this book, you will be very glad you did.