Lorena Garcia's New Latin Classics

Book excerpt: From Lorena Garcia, one of the country’s most popular Latina chefs and the co-star of NBC’s America’s Next Great Restaurant, comes a must-have cookbook for anyone who loves the bold, fresh flavors of the New Latin Cuisine. What’s the secret to great Latin-inspired food? Create layers of flavor that unfold with every bite. That’s just what Garcia does in this debut cookbook, serving up easy-to-make, irresistibly delicious dishes that taste “exotic”—though their ingredients can be found in your local supermarket. Here you’ll find classic Latin favorites like Nuevo Arroz con Pollo, while homey American classics are given a modern Nuevo Latino twist. From succulent Snapper Taquitos with Jicama-Apple Salsita to versatile arepas, the fluffy corn flatbreads that are to the Venezuelan table what baguettes are to the French, more than one hundred recipes in this volume lead lovers of Latin food far beyond tacos and empanadas. Lorena Garcia takes one of America’s hottest cuisine trends out of the restaurant and into the home kitchen, where everyone can enjoy it. Working from a base of standard pantry items that make replicating and extending these meals a snap, Garcia shows everyday cooks how to add a Latin accent to just about any dish, from meatballs to marinara. Want comfort food with flair? Who can resist such flavorful go-to dishes as • Smashed Guacamole • Creamy Roasted Corn Soup • Salmon Taquitos with Roasted Habanero Salsita • Mango BBQ Baby Back Ribs Still have room for dessert? Garcia’s are as simple as they are satisfying: Sticky Arroz con Pollo de Leche, Caramelized Vanilla Figs with Goat Cheese and Grilled Papaya, Spicy Chocolate Mousse—sweet finishing touches to a perfectly prepared meal. Dedicated to the timeless concept of cooking as an expression of love—an idea that transcends all cultures—Lorena Garcia’s New Latin Classics is a delightful book to be shared around the table with family and friends.