A cookbook with fabulous, straightforward recipes and pages infused with mouthwatering goodness is one way to describe Italian With a Twist.
The author, Chef Sunny Sung, is one of Edmonton’s food celebrities. He is executive chef at Sorrentino’s Restaurant Group and a partner in Bistecca Italian Steakhouse and Wine Bar.
With a legacy of more than 35 years creating high-end cuisine, Sung harnessed his smarts and passion to create 187 pages of delicious recipes as well as reveal his kitchen secrets.
Born in Taiwan, raised in Japan, the award-winning chef graduated from the Culinary Institute of New York and later studied in France and Italy.
The title is exactly what it states. Sung uses an Italian foundation for each dish and creates a heightened appeal by fusing Asian elements.
At first the cookbook draws you in with its vivid photographs that scream, “OK, where are the ingredients. I’ve got to make this.”
However, the great photos also made me a skeptic. I have purchased cookbooks with superb photographs containing less then stellar recipes. I decided to try a few.
Tomato and Gin Soup with Basil Oil served at a dinner party for six was a huge hit. The flavours from multiple vegetables were a lovely mix that stroked the palette and the added ingredient of gin was a superb conversation starter.
The Baked Asparagus Parmesan is simple dish that is quick to prepare, tastes delicious and can be served as an accompaniment or as a vegetarian meal.
Chicken Penne Arrabbiata, a pasta dish with tomato sauce with fresh herbs and chili flakes, produced just the right zing without overpowering the taste buds. And the white wine was a subtle, pleasing addition.
One of my favourites is the Cornish Hens with a creamy risotto. The hens are marinated in red wine and herbs before roasting to give them a great taste boost. And the risotto is smooth as silk.
Be prepared to spend a little longer cooking the dishes than you might anticipate, but the work is well worth it judging by the appreciation from diners.
In addition, Sung has added a three-page introduction, that dishes insights into Italian cuisine while Gurvinder Bhatia, the Edmonton Journal and Global TV international wine judge integrates two pages of wine tips.
The recipes featured in Italian With a Twist are clear and fairly fool proof. You will relish the time you invest in this culinary adventure.
Review
Italian With a Twist<br />By Sonny Sung<br />Pages: 160<br />Cost: $25.99<br />Company's Coming
