"Curiously shaped, intriguingly coloured fruits and vegetables from faraway countries are becoming increasingly familiar sights in our supermarkets and ethnic grocery stores. Many people are deterred from experimenting with these unusual ingredients by a lack of available information regarding identification, selection, preparation and use. The result is that a vast source of exciting new flavours has not been tapped. In this marvelous book Jane Grigson and Charlotte Knox have remedied that situation. Their aim is to inform, intrigue, delight and thus inspire the more widespread use of exotic fruits, vegetables and spices. The unique combination of Charlotte Knox’s meticulous, intensely beautiful watercolours and Jane Grigson’s evocative, informed text will lead the most cautious cook to new culinary adventures. Each illustration is accompanied by details of how to prepare and cook the ingredients, by fascinating historical background, and by recipes …"--front flap of dust jacket.