I just got this cookbook last week, and I love it:
Last night, instead of boxed Annie’s Mac and Cheese, we did tomato lentil couscous (from a box, but still!) and black beans in a beer reduction from Mark Bittman’s new vegetarian cookbook. Sliced apple and a little sliced gouda to keep the kids from losing it before dinner was on the table. It took 20 minutes to make and I’m so happy to avoid the mac and cheese bullet for another night.
All this to say that I really like this cookbook!
Now I just have to figure out dinner tonight. Sigh.
Good to know you like this book, as I’ve been thinking about getting myself a copy. I usually enjoy Bittman’s columns.
I ate couscous and black beans a bunch when I was in Switzerland since I didn’t have any cookbooks with me, had limited equipment, and recognized the way they were packaged at the grocery store. Both are good for something quick that can be changed around depending on what you add…I should get back to keeping them on hand!
Another fun thing- when you’re cooking couscous, instead of using water, use vegetable stock or apple juice or something else with a little flavor of its own (especially for plain couscous). Gives it a little extra something, requires no additional effort.