5 stars

I requested this book because I loved the cover and am a long-time vegan who is always looking for ways to expand my recipe base and cooking techniques. This book first met and then exceeded my expectations, and I recommend this for folks who participate in all different dietary options. You don't have to be vegan or anywhere close to get a lot out of this.

While this is a great cookbook, it's also much more than that. In advance of any recipes, readers get to learn about Made in Hackney (MiH), a vegan community cooking school. There are also tips on how to stock the pantry and fridge, what to grow and how, and why eating this way is helpful to individuals and the world at large. I loved getting to read about different contributors' experiences and approaches to food and community, too.

The real test for any cookbook is in the recipes. The images are clear and appealing, the directions are logical and well devised, and the recipes are nicely varied. I especially like the badge key that precedes the recipes. As a vegan athlete, I am all over that little pink barbell; bring me the protein! It's helpful to know which recipes best suit your needs in advance (that one pot marker is also a must). I haven't made anything yet (I JUST finished reading), but I immediately bookmarked about a dozen recipes that I know will be sure things just as a start.

I loved everything about this read, from the approachable recipes to the vibe of MiH to the informative but not pedantic presentation. I'll be going back to these bookmarks often and looking for more from this writer.