The Southern Vegetarian Cookbook

Anyone not adequately acquainted with the South's true culinary terrain might struggle with the idea of a Southern vegetarian. Because isn't the South one big feast of meaty indulgence? Don't vegetables play a supporting role to fried chicken and bacon on a Southern table? Justin Fox Burks and Amy Lawrence turn that notion on its head by recasting garden bounty as the headlining act on a plate. In a region distinguished by ideal growing conditions and generations of skilled farmers, Southern-style vegetarian cooking is not only possible, it's a pursuit brimming with vine-ripened possibility.

Grab a chair in Burks and Lawrence's kitchen and discover modern recipes that evoke the flavors of traditional Southern cooking, with techniques and ingredients loved so dearly throughout the region:

Lemon Zest and Thyme Pimento Cheese Grilled Watermelon and Tomato Salad with Honey Lime Vinaigrette Okra Fritters with Creole Mustard Sauce Vegetarian Red Beans and Rice with Andouille Eggplant Roast Beet Salad with Sea Salt Granola and Honey Tarragon Dressing Grilled Peach Ice Cream

Whether you're a devoted plant-eater or a steadfast omnivore, The Southern Vegetarian Cookbook will help you shift vegetables from the outskirts of your plate into main course position. Eating your vegetables has never been more delicious.

"True Southern food will always adapt to its surroundings. It is not the stubborn lout that many think it is, rather it's a nimble cheerleader of its region. It revels in vegetables and cherishes seasons. Burks and Lawrence are adding healthy substance to the definition of our Southern food. The Southern Vegetarian is a great addition to any culinary library." --Hugh Acheson, author of A New Turn in the South

"Come eat with The Chubby Vegetarian. Justin and Amy are the only people I have ever met who can take the hock out of greens and not remove the soul from the pot." --Kelly English, Food Wine Best New Chef 2009, Chef/Owner of Restaurant Iris

"What you have in your hands is a gift. It is a fresh, fun, slightly irreverent and joyful new look at Southern vegetarian dishes...a look that needed to be taken." --John Currence, James Beard Foundation award for Best Chef South, Chef/Owner, City Grocery Restaurant Group