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• by:
• Wakiya, Yuji

Yuji Wakiya's impressive creative talent for serving authentic Chinese recipes and ingredients has revolutionized the perception of that nation's cuisine. He has taken food that too often has been seen as a take-out staple steeped in artificial additives and given it layers of delicate, subtle flavor and an elegant touch, resulting in what can only be called haute Chinese.Wakiya's unique style captured in this book by the breathtaking photos of Masashi Kuma comes from the combination of his deep knowledge of Chinese food and culture and the Japanese aesthetic for an always-stylish, yet refined presentation.

In commentary and supplemental information accompanying each recipe, Wakiya enlightens readers on a wide variety of topics ranging from the medicinal properties of certain ingredients to making stocks and sauces from scratch, reconstituting dried Chinese ingredients, and the importance of using high heat in making tea. He discusses the origins of his signature dishes, based on Shanghai cuisine known for its use of healthy ingredients such as black vinegar as well as the fascinating history, traditions and culture of the cuisine. Detailed instructions enable accomplished amateur chefs and professionals to prepare the dishes themselves.

Over 70 dishes are presented in the book, organized by course from appetizer through the meat and vegetable dishes to the dessert. Each of the dishes also reflects Wakiya's creativity and originality through his selection of antique plates from all over Asia.

Like no other Chinese cookbook before it, Haute Chinese Cuisine from the Kitchen of Wakiya is a dramatic treat for sophisticated eyes and palates and the intellectually curious.