Whole30 Book Review
As I browsed the lending library at KIHC, my eyes were drawn to the abundance of cookbooks lining the shelves. From Keto and vegan to Mediterranean diets, there was a wide variety to explore. However, the one that sparked my interest was Whole30 Friends & Family by Melissa Hartwig Urban.
What is Whole30?
Melissa introduces the concept of Whole30, a 30-day elimination of foods that research has linked with cravings, metabolism, indigestion, or immune system responses. The cookbook serves as a continuation of this approach catered towards those who want to maintain their Whole30 program, while still enjoying social gatherings.
Whole30 Recipe Diversity
Melissa provides recipes for various occasions so you are not short of ideas during picnics, camping trips or family game nights. Although the erasure of sugar, alcohol, dairy, grains, or legumes might seem scary, Melissa offers 150 recipes to keep you going. There is also the inclusion of recipes to make basic items Whole30-friendly, such as mayonnaise, clarified butter, and siracha.
All the recipes are diverse and flavourful, proving that Whole30 meals do not have to be bland or restrictive. Whether you’re looking for appetizers, main dishes, sides, drinks, or desserts, there is something for your taste. The recipes are all clear, straightforward, and written with step-by-step instructions. The book also provides useful tips, making it accessible to cooks of all levels.
Putting it to the Test
One of the recipes that stood out to me was the peppered beef fajita bowl, because I was very interested in trying cauliflower rice for the first time. As someone who loves rice, I wanted to test out an alternative to it. The ingredients were also commonly found at home. The dish was packed with flavor, tender beef, vibrant peppers, and a well-balanced blend of spices. The instructions were extremely easy to follow, and the end result was both satisfying and Whole30 friendly. I did add some sriracha over top as I like a little spice in my dishes. I think that really added depth to the cauliflower rice in combination with the seasoned beef and vegetables. It is definitely a must-try recipe!
Other recipes that I am interested in trying include fizzy melon-berry lemonade, cajun-rubbed chicken wings, and buffalo chicken frittata. These are just a few of the many recipes I have come across and will be adding to my list of must-try recipes.
Would I Recommend?
Yes, I would recommend this cookbook to everyone – even if you are not particularly drawn to the concept of Whole30. I think the book provides a wide array of recipes that will get you cooking something new. I believe anyone will be able to find a recipe that piques their interest and inspires them to give it a shot. Its well-organized structure, flavourful recipes, and practical hosting tips, proves that social gatherings and Whole30 compliance can go hand-in-hand.
Make sure to also check out other cookbooks available in the lending library to expand your knowledge on certain dietary changes and options to better your health.
