Simply Delicioso: A Collection of Everyday Recipes with a Latin Twist

Sharing a title with that of her TV Food Network show, Ingrid Hoffman's Simply Delicioso offers 125 Latin-American recipes that reflect her food-loving vivacity. Dishes like Tamarind-Glazed Baby Back Ribs, Salmon Crevice with Mango, and Chipotle Tamale Pie give some idea of her savory way with the traditional Latin repertoire. Hoffman also includes formulas for sweets like Dulce de Leche Cookie Sandwiches and Passion Fruit Mousse, and for and drinks, such as Tart Banana Crush. These are instantly attractive recipes that cooks should have no trouble preparing once ingredients are on hand. (Hoffman provides a handy pantry of necessary items.) She also offers anecdotes and Chica Tips; both help limn her as a happy, serious eater as well as practiced cook. With color illustrations, the book is just the thing when the urge for big flavor strikes. --Arthur Boehm