Food for thought

1. How to Forget your ex with the stab of a fork
    Claire Jacquet and Marina Veuillet
    Price:  Rs 195 
    Pp:  160

You’re absolutely “fed up” and you’re no longer “full of beans” as they say…Your love story isn’t a love story anymore, and whether you’re the one who walked out or the one left behind, the struggle to settle back into the single life is the same. Without you realising, your stomach has tied itself in knots. Somewhere in between “No. I don’t want to see anyone” and “Yes. I’m coming. Anything’s better than staying at home!” Your body craves a period of healthy, but temporary under eating…Nothing could be more normal…

…It’s an opportunity to make the most of your new-found freedom and indulge yourself with a few gastronomic pranks.

A good reason to buy this book: Revitalise your heartbroken friend by tempting his taste buds.

2. Try this and marry me!
     Raphaele Vidaling
     Price: Rs 195
     Pp 160

Don’t have a clue about wines but counting on the effects of alcohol to make him lose his inhibitions and liven up the proceedings? If you’ve opted for a sweet-sour dish, serve it with mulled wine sweetened with a little sugar, spices and orange peel. Not only will the taste of the wine be unrecognisable, it will help mask any faux pas on your part...

...In many African and Asian countries, food is served “collectively” and guests just delve in and choose what they like. Using a separate plate for each individual is a Western invention—and not strictly the most convivial. Only offering one big plate of food between the two of you might be a way to get his feet under your table.

A good reason to buy this book: You’ve met the person of your dreams, and you want to invite him/her over to your place for an intimate dinner (in the hope that he/she might be making you breakfast).

3. For girls who haven’t learned much from their mothers
    Nicole Seeman
    Price:  Rs 195 
    Pp: 160

There are few moments in the life of a couple, be it at the beginning of a relationship, or, after years of cohabitation, which are as romantic or as sensual as a tête-à-tête supper (well, there are, but we can’t talk about them here).

Your loved one has invited his parents to supper. Help! He always talks about “Mom’s cooking” with a tremble in his voice! And now, you are at a loss at the thought of this evening and your skills in the kitchen. A simple strategy: do not try to compete with his childhood memories (rose-tinted, probably exaggerated…) or with your mother-inlaw’s lamb casseroles, ragouts, or roasts. We recommend modern, original recipes that will surprise them.

A good reason to buy this book: When you dial a pizza, you no longer need to tell them your name: “Hi! It’s me!” is all they need to know.

(All three books distributed in India by Roli Books)