Booklist Review
*Starred Review* Goulding's presentation of the myriad Spanish gastronomic delights from across the culturally diverse country is deliciously enticing and thoughtfully introspective. The extensive tapas crawls of Barcelona and Madrid, the hedonistic pleasures of traversing Asturias with José Andrés, and insightful discussions with the fascinating chefs and winemakers of Basque country are juxtaposed with detailed descriptions of the ancient traditions of making paella in Moor-influenced Valencia, the curing of the jamon iberico of Salamanca, and the hearty salmorejo (a garlicky tomato bread soup) of Córdoba. The importance of specific local ingredients and recipes to each area's way of life are especially illuminated in chapters on the Galician men known as percebeiros bravely hunting barnacles, the competitive bluefin tuna trade of Cadiz, and the simple migas meals of the cave-dwelling villagers of Granada. Intermezzos are provided throughout the text by interesting sidebars highlighting such nuggets of information as how to eat or drink like a Spaniard, tapas taxonomy, and the various rice dishes found throughout Spain. Introductions by way of quotes and short vignettes of a diverse cross section of Spain's unique citizenry, from fishermen to nuns, chefs to sanitation workers, further balance Goulding's culinary travel guide.--Smith, Becca Copyright 2016 Booklist
Library Journal Review
In Goulding's latest work, the former Men's Health food editor and coauthor of the best-selling "Eat This, Not That" series explores the food and culture of Spain. Part narrative, part how-to guide to eating in Spain (without this book you are doing it wrong), Goulding weaves stories and observations into an organic mosaic that earns its subtitle. In nine chapters, readers are taken on a tour of all of Spain's regions, gaining insight into the country's culinary traditions and practices. The pace and rhythm of the text are just right, combining handy tips with beautiful photos that results in an elusive pairing of bracing immediacy and "all the time in the world," which makes for the best memories, at home or abroad. The second book in the series, after Rice, Noodle, Fish: Deep Travels Through Japan's Food Culture, this volume was born out of a collaboration between acclaimed digital travel magazine Roads & Kingdoms and celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain. VERDICT Deeply satisfying for the armchair traveler, this can't-miss book should be required reading prior to visiting Spain.-Courtney McDonald, Indiana Univ. Libs., Bloomington © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
