Reviews

Summer Kitchens: Recipes and Reminiscences from Every Corner of Ukraine by Olia Hercules

laurakazakeos's review

5.0

Summer Kitchen is a cookbook with an edge. This books gives a lovely introduction to summer kitchens, which are out houses separate to the main house, usually used within summertime to prepare, cook and preserve food. Summer kitchens are quirky beautiful buildings in decline in present Ukraine, yet are a heritage the author wants to revive. The images that accompany the story of the buildings and recipes within are vibrant and compelling and give a lovely extra to what would otherwise be put into the category of ‘just another cookbook’. This book not only gave me recipes I would have not otherwise come across but also transported me to a beautiful summer in a Ukrainian kitchen. There are some absolutely must try recipes, which are a real treat as well as great staples to add to your everyday. An addition to your cookbook arsenal which won’t disappoint.

rmtbray's review against another edition

3.0

Olia's love for Ukranian summer kitchens of yore comes through so strongly in this book, her writing is so evocative and comes to life with the book's beautiful photography. The section at the back which included several other people's recollections of summer kitchens was really touching. It made me want to visit Ukraine so badly!

As for the recipes, they (almost!) all look delicious but are a little tricky to go about in a small city kitchen, especially during lockdown! That said I have book marked several I would like to try if I get the chance.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read & review this book.

annarella's review against another edition

5.0

It was a great introduction to Ukraine cuisine. I loved the detailed recipes and will surely try some of them.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.