A well-written cookbook. One of those that is interesting to read as well as educational. I am not an herbalist, nor do I practice a sort of alternative type of medicine. Although much of this book leans toward topics on wellness both physically and mentally, I think there is something here for everyone. It's possible people might view it as more focused than I did. This is a book I would use but also place on my shelf as a cookbook/reference book.

I think I’m a fairly good cook. Definitely an experimenter. With so many recipes online today, there are some definite criteria that are of utmost importance to me in the purchase of a cookbook. Kosmic Kitchen meets those criteria.

It contains a lot of varied information. Not just recipes, but information concerning herbs, spices, and many other plant-based items. As I said I don’t utilize my herbs for healing or well-being. I view them more as a flavoring, but I learned a great deal from this book. I never shy away from trying foods that sound good or are good for you.

Another aspect (maybe #1) is that the recipes are well-written and clear. Writing recipes is not just a list of ingredients and how to cook something. A recipe is a well-thought-out diagram, aiding you in creating something in the most efficient and tasteful manner possible. Sloppy or half-baked recipe instructions are a bug-a-boo with me. I will put down the most beautiful cookbook if the recipes are not put together well. Even though I am a seasoned cook and could possibly figure out what to do, it’s a pass for me. None of that exists in Benjamin and Singletary’s book.

And also finally (also maybe #1) Among the recipes are unique descriptions of what various ingredients can be used for. All kinds of additional ideas; sort of a blank canvas to paint on.

And then finally (again maybe #1) beautiful photos. I am very visual. Often a photo inspires me to cook, to create, or just to make sure I am feeding people aesthetically and healthy.

This is a much longer review than I normally write. One with a lot of “#1” items. I tend to not read long reviews myself because I don’t want to know much of the story. But there’s a lot to describe in this Kosmic Kitchen Cookbook. A lot to be savored.

This is a beautifully illustrated, helpful book that provides a wealth of information about herbalism and traditions like Ayurveda. After a very thorough introduction to these principles, there are seasonal plans with lots of recipes. I appreciated that the herbs covered included lots of ways to use them (like stir them into nut butter, put them on oatmeal, use them in this tea, etc.), which was one of my complaints with a very popular herbal book that is way over-hyped in my opinion. The authors are warm and relatable, and seem well educated on the subject matter.

I personally am far more interested in traditions rooted in the U.S. than in other parts of the world like Ayurveda (it just makes sense to me to use the plants and traditions that have evolved where you live) and I already know quite a lot about Ayurveda and don't really follow it, so that part of the book was less helpful for me. I also wish the authors had given information on growing and/or foraging the herbs. We are literally surrounded with health-giving herbs everywhere we go, from burdock root to elderberries to nettles (all of these are common "weeds" in most of the U.S., along with others like dandelions, hawthorn berries, etc. that are recommended in the book), and it is better for us and the earth if we can gather them near us rather than pay for them to be grown, packaged and shipped from someplace across the country.

That said, I loved some of the recipes and appreciated the wealth of information. The photos are also gorgeous. There are recipes that will work for vegetarians, vegans, paleo folks, you name it. I also loved that the authors gave the recipes and the herbs in a seasonal order, since our needs change with the seasons and we should use plants when they are healthiest and in season. We do this in our family since we garden and forage so much, and it really is a way of eating and healing that I think we need to all return to. I know I am counting the days until I can go gather nettles, ramps, morels, asparagus, violets and other spring plants. I'm sprinkling dried nettles in my soup and brewing up elderberry syrup in the meantime. With this book, I have a stack of recipes I'm going to try in the new year, and some new herbs I'll add to my list.

I read a temporary ARC of this book for the purpose of review.

The cosmic kitchen cookbook by Sarah Kate Benjamin and summer Ashley Singletary Is a great book. This book will introduce you to our herbalist is. It will help you to create a cosmic kitchen, teach you the elements of taste, show you how to stock your kitchen and introduce you to healing plants for your cosmic pantry. The last half of the book gives you great healing recipes.

This book is EVERYTHING! I know that I’m known as a fiction lover but I will read pretty much anything and I’m also a passionate lover of all things natural and alternative. When I was approved to read The Kosmic Kitchen I absolutely jumped at the chance.
If you’re interested I Ayurvedic medicine, herbal remedies and getting completely back to nature, this book is absolutely perfect for you.
I have dealt with adrenal burnout and chronic fatigue off and on in my life and I’m so thrilled to be armed with the recipes and knowledge I’ve found in this tome. I can’t wait for its release because it will be an absolute go to reference on my shelf!

4 stars

Definitely a lovely looking book. Seems to be based on Ayervedic principles. Lots of teas, tisanes and congees. I have a book by Anjum Anand and what I like about her book is that she splits her book into Dosha's rather than seasons. I think an additional comment on the recipes as to any adaptions needed for say kapha types might have been useful. It's one to go on a Xmas or Birthday wishlist.

I received a complimentary unedited ARC copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Very interesting and comprehensive guide to herbalism, put together in a gorgeous compilation of recipes and tips. Certainly feel I've gained an understanding of what herbalism is after reading this.

This book is a deep-dive into the world of herbalism, healing and growing your own gardens. There are many lessons that range from the authors' stories to actual recipes. For the beginner, this may be a good place to start, but I would be more confident to say that this book is for those consumers ready to commit to a lifestyle of healing and wellness through herbs.