Zingerman's Guide to Good Eating

Book excerpt: A culinary master shares the secrets of shopping for the very best ingredients: “As delicious and satisfying a read as the traditional foods it celebrates” (Detroit Free Press). Hailed as one of the best delicatessens in the country by the New York Times, Esquire, and the Atlantic Monthly, Zingerman’s is a trusted source for superior ingredients—and an equally dependable supplier of reliable information about food. Now, Ari Weinzweig, the founder of Zingerman’s, shares two decades of knowledge gained in his pursuit of the world’s finest food products. How do you tell the difference between a great aged balsamic vinegar and a caramel-flavored impostor? How do you select an extraordinary olive oil from the bewildering array of bottles on the grocery shelf? Which Italian rice makes the creamiest risotto (and what are the tricks to making a terrific one)? Is there a difference between traditionally made pastas and commercial brands? How do English and American Cheddars compare? How do you make sense of the thousands of teas in the world to find one you love? What should you look for on the label of a good chocolate? In this fascinating resource guide, Weinzweig tells you everything you need to know about how to choose top-quality basics that can transform every meal from ordinary to memorable: oils, vinegars, and olives; bread, pasta, and rice; cheeses and cured meats; seasonings like salt, pepper, and saffron; vanilla, chocolate, and tea. Zingerman’s Guide to Good Eating also includes approximately 100 recipes, many collected from artisan food makers, from Miguel’s Mother’s Macaroni to “LEO” (lox, eggs, and onions) to Funky, Chunky Dark Chocolate Cookies. This book is not only an indispensable guide to pantry essentials—it’s an enthralling read. You’ll visit artisan food producers, learn fascinating facts, find sources for the best brands and food suppliers, and get valuable advice that will change the way you cook forever.