That being said, this cookbook is beautiful, informational, practical, and wonderful for anyone who has been to China or simply loves Chinese food. When I went to China this year, we were fed mostly Westernized Chinese food. I was hoping for more - more spice, more (within reason) new ingredients, more seafood, more desserts (we were rarely served anything sugary!). I didn't get what I was looking for. I am going to love perusing this book while the kids play or in times when I don't want to dive into a novel but want to feel a book in my hands and smell the 'new book smell'. I'm honestly not sure how many recipes I will try - I want to start by doing some simple stir-frys, would love to progress to "Red-Cooked Lion's Head" (dish with meatballs, not actually lion!), some deep frying, and add in some authentic Chinese desserts. "Phoenix Claws and Jade Trees" will be a resource for me as I delve into Chinese cooking and begin to teach my children about cooking ethnic foods.
Thank you Blogging for Books for a free book in exchange for an honest review! This is one of the best I have yet to read/review!