Jody Vassallo is an insatiable globe-trotter whose bestselling cookbooks combine her passions for travel and food. Always on the lookout for new flavors and ingredients, Jody has translated her travels into original recipes in books such as Curry, Salt and Pepper, and Basic Pasta.

A guide to creating the fresh taste of Japan in your own kitchen. When most of us think of Japanese food, we don't think of food we can prepare ourselves. "Basic Japanese Cooking" will change that, and remove the intimidation out of making authentic Japanese cuisine. As author and traveler Jody Vassallo explains, once you let go of the idea of perfection, Japanese food can come together in under half an hour and it's fun to make, too. While it takes years of training to become a recognized sushi master, in your own kitchen, you don't need to hold yourself to such high standards. As long as the ingredients are fresh and the rice is cooked well, what you prepare is bound to be delicious. "Basic Japanese Cooking" doesn't stop at sushi, either. It includes recipes for mouthwatering soups and colorful udon, soba, and ramen noodle dishes, along with Japanese favorites such as tempura and edamame. With color photographs illuminating everything from basic ingredients to suggested utensils, this book is a great place for curious cooks to begin.