Hot Sour Salty Sweet

by Jeffrey Alford and Naomi Duguid
Hot Sour Salty Sweet cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Technical
  • ID: 1030
  • Added: 2025-09-24
  • Updated: 2025-09-24
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Travel Fish · 2025-09-24
intriguing 4.00

The book is noted for its enduring appeal despite being somewhat dated and not as flashy as modern cookbooks. It is a pleasure to leaf through and offers a unique perspective on Southeast Asian cuisine.

The reviewer acknowledges that Hot Sour Salty Sweet may not have the glossy, flashy appeal of today's cookbooks, but it has certainly stood the test of time. They enjoy the book's old-fashioned charm and the way it invites readers to explore the pages. The book is praised for its unique perspective on Southeast Asian cuisine, which is both informative and engaging. The reviewer suggests that the book's enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport readers to the region through its recipes and stories.

Quick quotes

    Though now somewhat dated and not as flashy or glossy as today's cookbooks, it's withstood the test of time.

    It is a pleasure to leaf through the pages.

    Offers a unique perspective on Southeast Asian cuisine.

Serious Eats · 2025-09-24
brilliant 4.50

The book is praised for its stunning photography and insightful essays that capture the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine. It is considered a timeless piece that transcends the typical cookbook format.

This review highlights the book's exceptional photography, which is described as some of the best ever seen in a cookbook. The essays are compelling and provide a deep dive into the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia. The reviewer appreciates how the book goes beyond just recipes, offering a cultural journey through the region. They also note that while the book may be somewhat dated, it has withstood the test of time and remains a pleasure to explore.

Quick quotes

    Gorgeous photography (seriously, this is one of the best-photographed books you'll ever see).

    Compelling essays that capture a version of Southeast Asian cuisine.

    A timeless piece that transcends the typical cookbook format.

Asia by the Book · 2007-12-31
enchanting 4.75

The book is celebrated for its exploration of a shared approach to food and a common palate among the people of Southeast Asia. The journey along the river is both culinary and cultural.

This review emphasizes the book's exploration of the shared culinary traditions and palates found among the people of Southeast Asia. The journey along the river is not just a culinary one but also a cultural exploration, revealing the deep connections between food and the people who prepare and enjoy it. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to capture the essence of these connections, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in the region's food culture. They also highlight the evocative stories and recipes that bring the journey to life.

Quick quotes

    A shared approach to food, as well as a common palate among the people of these widely different places.

    A culinary journey through Southeast Asia.

    Evocative stories and recipes.

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