Simple Pleasures from our Maritime Kitchens: Anecdotes, History, and Recipes

Susan Cleyle is a systems librarian in the Queen Elizabeth II Library,
Memorial University of Newfoundland.

The many migrations of different cultures to the Maritimes have found
their way into the kitchens and recipes of many families. Julie Watson
brings to life many generations of Maritime women through interviews.
The recipes are based, for the most part, on ingredients found in the
Maritimes. Sections dealing with Maritime history provide context for
many of the recipes.

The recipes are tasty and well chosen. There are both standards likely
to be found in any Maritime cookbook (Blueberry Buckle, Fish Cakes, Clam
Chowder) and more exotic recipes, such as Pickled Eggs, Rappie Pie,
Dulse Salad, and Lunenburg Sausage. The recipes are well laid out, with
easy-to-follow instructions.

The recipes are arranged by month, which makes it difficult for the
cook to find a particular category (e.g., desserts) quickly. That said,
this book is a delight to read and a welcome addition to any Maritime
cooking library.