SEASONINGS SUBSTITUTIONS is a convenient asset to have in case one needs to deviate from a recipe at hand or wants to find a use for an unfamiliar spice gathering dust in their cabinet. It has a large, alphabetical list of condiments with suggestions for either how to make your own or what is an easy replacement. The list is multi-cultural and varied to the point that even a seasoned home cook might be unfamiliar with some of the seasonings presented. The substitutions are often noted with possible textural differences or vegetarian/vegan options. In addition, the book ends with a reassuringly extensive bibliography.
That said, the formatting is a little abrupt. The book is basically an introduction, a list divided into chapters by letter, and a bibliography. The list format takes some getting used to and leaves the reader used to a more conventional cookbook wondering “Is this it?” Though each entry gives a very brief explanation about what the condiment is (ie. Ala Topiperigano is “Greek seasoning salt”), it lacks a flavor profile which would help the reader know better how and what to use it in. It also lacked explanations as to why this substitution was chosen, which feels like a missed opportunity to educate the reader. In the sections that had the reader referring to other entries (ie. “AMARILLO PEPPER See AJI AMARILLO/AJI ESCABECHE”) it would have been nice to have hyperlinks for easier navigation to the relevant page. Additionally, the review copy did not contain pictures, which would have improved the visual presentation of the book a lot, especially as a way to introduce the lesser known seasonings.
SEASONINGS SUBSTITUTIONS could stand to be easier on the eye, but it is full of useful information that makes it worth having in the kitchen. It would have benefited from some recipes and perhaps some deeper dives into the history or fun facts about certain condiments to break up the list more. However, McLeod seems to have done her research and brings the reader a utilitarian resource with a global look at seasonings and condiments.
SEASONINGS SUBSTITUTIONS is a good spartan reference book to have on hand in case of ingredient emergencies.
~Katta Hules for IndieReader