Book Review - La Concha

Tastes of the Camino  by Yosmar Monique Martinez

Reviewed by Kathy Kennerly, Ponferrada Spain

Tastes of the Camino, written by Yosmar Monique Martínez, is a Spanish food cookbook for both the novice and the experienced chef. Yosmar guides the reader across various regions of Spain with her authentic and authoritative delivery of exquisite Iberian plates, served up with generous helpings of memories shared with Camino friends and families.

Whole-page photos allow the reader to visually feast on mejillones and Caldo Gallego. The fragrances of fresh cinnamon and vanilla virtually leap from the page. Yosmar’s use of a rhythmic organization of discussion, photo, ingredients list, then preparation instruction, take on the cadence of walking, etapa by etapa, to Santiago. One step at a time. One savory, artful dish at a time. Small details enrich the read: the red grosgrain page marker, the small pilgrim icons denoting serving size of each recipe and the spine that lays flat make this cookbook enjoyable and easy to use.

Tastes of the Camino contains thirty authentic recipes.  Recipes were peer tested, and instructions were tailored to make clear each step necessary for successful execution. From beginner to practiced chef, authentic Spanish dishes can be prepared with ease and presented beautifully to the most discerning palates.

Armchair pilgrims and caminantes alike will enjoy the flavors and memories this beautiful book evokes.  It is a work of art from the heart.

¡Buen Provecho!

Originally published on page 8 of La Concha, the American Pilgrims on the Camino newsletter.