My good friend Derick or @ChefyD as he’s better known is responsible for introducing me to this book . He invited me to a party (anyone remember parties?) way back in 2015 but forgot to mention I’d be working for my supper! He had found this new cookbook he wanted to try so we set to picking out dishes . We had great fun ( he didn’t shout at me that much 🤣) making Cacik ( a delicious cucumber dip) , marinated feta, tomato and pepper dip and lots more – I think we did about 10 recipes in total and they were all delicious. A favourite was born.
Since then I have used this book on a regular basis in my kitchen – adapting some of the recipes to suit buffet lunches etc.
I have bought Sabrina’s subsequent books but I have to admit I don’t love them as much and I always go back to Persiana.
So what did I cook for the cookalong ? Firstly it was tough to find dishes I hadn’t tried and then I was delighted that the Bandari Monkfish Tails (p 147) topped the poll (and so was Jason my fishmonger😉) . Despite the list of ingredients this is very simple to make – I blitzed all the marinade ingredients together and then marinated the monkfish for 40 mins.
I started the dish in the pan as per instructions but I finished mine off in the oven.
The book recommends serving the monkfish with a Shirazi Salad (p 178) and I would too!
Again the colours and the flavours were so vibrant – perfect for a miserable February evening
I wanted to serve freekeh with the fish but couldn’t find a suitable recipe for it in the book so I made a pilaf with red pepper and pomegranate. Have to say I was very pleased with how it worked out 😊
My verdict : Do you have to ask ?? Everyone should have this book in their library !
And I have to thank @ChefyD for both introducing me to the book and for gifting me his original copy xx
You can catch up on the Cookbook Cookalong here
Hey Pesto! 