Totally Vegetarian by Toni Fiore
Can a vegetarian cookbook feel both ambitious and comfortably familiar? Toni Fiore’s Totally Vegetarian: Easy, Fast, Comforting Cooking for Every Kind of Vegetarian builds its appeal around that idea: recognisable meals made without meat, using ingredients that do not demand a specialist grocery shop. Published in 2008, the book grew out of Fiore’s television work and remains an interesting snapshot of practical plant-based cooking.
What is inside Totally Vegetarian?
The original publisher description presents around 200 recipes, ranging from quick everyday meals to more involved weekend cooking. Tempeh fajitas, vegetable potstickers, eggplant “meatballs,” sage-scented potato pizza and tofu wraps illustrate the general approach: use a flavour or format people already enjoy, then build the dish around vegetables, legumes or soy foods. A contemporary Publishers Weekly review also describes a mix of vegetable-forward dishes and comfort-food adaptations.
It is not a book solely for strict vegans. Some recipes may need adaptation depending on whether you avoid eggs, dairy or honey. Look at individual ingredient lists rather than assuming that “vegetarian” always means “vegan.”
Who will get the most from it?
The strongest fit is a cook who wants ideas for weeknight meals without feeling that every dinner must become an elaborate project. The examples show how to make satisfying food from tofu, tempeh, grains, potatoes and seasonal produce. Someone learning to cook without meat may find the familiar dish names particularly reassuring.
The original publicity suggested that some dishes could be made in just minutes. That should not be read as a promise for every recipe: preparation, chopping and cooking times will depend on the dish and the home kitchen.
Three useful ideas to take into your kitchen
First, keep a small pantry of beans, grains, tinned tomatoes, herbs and spices so that a vegetarian dinner does not require an extra shopping trip. Second, introduce a protein-containing ingredient such as lentils, tofu or tempeh when building a main course. Third, add contrast: something crisp, something creamy and a bright accent such as lemon or vinegar make simple plates more interesting.
If you eat fully vegan, plan a reliable vitamin B12 source through fortified foods or supplements. The NIH vitamin B12 guide explains why unfortified plant foods cannot be counted on for this nutrient.
Finding the original book today
The 2008 hardcover is identifiable by ISBN 9780738211831; a later paperback also exists. Used-copy sellers have advertised the book, but a historic product page does not guarantee a new copy or current Amazon inventory. Check condition, edition and delivery options before buying.
Book: Totally Vegetarian: Easy, Fast, Comforting Cooking for Every Kind of Vegetarian by Toni Fiore
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