A Taste of the World: Celebrating Global Flavors

Have you ever wanted to take your family on a culinary adventure without packing a single suitcase? A Taste of the World by Rowena Scherer offers just that! With over 60 kid-friendly recipes from around the globe, this cookbook makes it easy to introduce children to international flavors and cultures right from your kitchen. It’s not just a cookbook—it’s an invitation to learn, taste, and explore together as a family.

I received this book for free from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Author

Rowena Scherer is the founder of Eat2Explore, a subscription box service that inspires kids and families to discover world cuisines. Scherer’s passion for creating enriching culinary experiences shines through in A Taste of the World. Her approach to teaching kids about global cultures through food is both innovative and heartfelt, making her an expert in the field of family cooking and cultural education.

Audience

This cookbook is perfect for families who love to cook together, parents looking for fun ways to teach their kids about the world, and anyone new to global cuisine. The recipes are approachable for kids of all ages, with plenty of guidance to keep young chefs safe and engaged. It’s an excellent resource for homeschoolers, adventurous eaters, or even grandparents who want to bond with their grandchildren through cooking.

Mission

Scherer’s mission with A Taste of the World is clear: to foster curiosity and cultural appreciation through food. By offering recipes that represent 20 different countries alongside cultural facts and vibrant illustrations, she creates a well-rounded experience that’s as much about learning as it is about eating.

Standout and Unique Features

Kid-Friendly Recipes: Each recipe is tailored to include steps that kids can safely help with. This includes rating each step for what age groups can help.
Cultural Context: Short facts about 20 countries accompany the recipes, making this cookbook a mini world geography lesson.
Visual Appeal: Full-color photographs and adorable illustrations enhance the learning and cooking experience.

What I liked

I loved how each recipe is designed to be a full meal, not just a snack or dessert, which is excellent for cooking with children and making something of substance. The inclusion of cultural facts and landmarks is a wonderful touch that makes cooking educational and fun. The step-by-step photos are incredibly helpful, especially for young cooks and parents who might feel less confident in the kitchen.

What I Wish It Had

While the cookbook’s wide range of cuisines is a highlight, some recipes might require ingredients that are harder to find depending on your location.

FAQ

What types of recipes does A Taste of the World include?

It features over 60 full-meal recipes from 20 countries. These are main course dishes, though sides may also be included or suggested.

Is A Taste of the World good for weeknight cooking?

Yes! Many of the recipes are straightforward and perfect for quick family dinners, though some may require planning for specialty ingredients.

Does A Taste of the World focus on basics or more advanced techniques?

The recipes are tailored to be accessible for kids and families, with clear instructions to keep it simple.

How is the picture quality and quantity in A Taste of the World?

The cookbook is rich with full-color photos of completed dishes and step-by-step illustrations.

Does A Taste of the World need unique tools or equipment?

Most recipes use standard kitchen tools, making it accessible for families.

Does A Taste of the World need unique ingredients?

Yes, some recipes may require specialty ingredients, depending on the cuisine.

How much time do the recipes take in A Taste of the World?

Preparation times vary, but most recipes can be completed in under an hour.

Does A Taste of the World provide nutritional information?

No, the book does not include nutritional breakdowns.

Are the recipes family-friendly in A Taste of the World?

Absolutely! Recipes are designed to be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.

Is A Taste of the World part of a series?

No, but it aligns with Rowena Scherer’s broader Eat2Explore initiative.

Can I read A Taste of the World like a book?

Yes, the cultural facts and vibrant visuals make it an engaging read.

Is A Taste of the World a keeper for the collection or a borrower from the library?

Definitely a keeper if you’re a family who loves to cook and learn together.

Standout Recipes

Okonomiyaki
Pilau na Kachumbari
Lomo Saltado
Korean Rolls with Ground Beef
Falafel

Best Recipes for Different Occasions

Weeknight Dinner: Black Bean Enchiladas
Weekend Project: Lamb Kebabs
Cultural Exploration: Vegetable Korma
Kid-Approved: Katsu

Final Verdict: A Permanent Addition?

A Taste of the World is an outstanding resource for families looking to bond over cooking while learning about global cultures. Its combination of easy-to-follow recipes, cultural insights, and gorgeous visuals makes it a must-have for any parent or educator wanting to expand their children’s horizons—one delicious dish at a time.

If You Are Interested In This Book, You Might Also Like:

If A Taste of the World sparks your curiosity about global cooking with kids, you might enjoy other family-friendly cookbooks like The International Family Table by Ellen Damaschino, Kids Around the World Cook! by Arlette N. Braman, and Cooking Class Global Feast! by Deanna F. Cook. These books share a similar mission of blending culinary adventures with cultural education, offering even more opportunities to explore the world through food. If you have younger ones, a Sesame Street cookbook might be more engaging.