The Everyday Dairy-Free Cookbook

Janet Arnett is the former campus manager of adult education at Ontario’s Georgian College. She is the author of Antiques and Collectibles: Starting Small, The Grange at Knock, and 673 Ways to Save Money.

Although this cookbook is packed with nearly 200 recipes, it is the
quick course in milk allergies and lactose intolerance that make it so
valuable for anyone who prepares meals for someone with these
conditions.

The distinction between a milk allergy and the various degrees of
lactose intolerance, and the meaning of “dairy-free,” are laid out
in understandable terms, bringing clarity to often-confused conditions.
Causes, symptoms, cautions, and coping strategies are covered, with lots
of examples. The section on unexpected sources of dairy products, such
as canned tuna and deli meats, is certain to be an eye-opener for most
readers.

The question of how to achieve adequate calcium and protein levels in
the absence of dairy foods is discussed, as is the role of soy products
in achieving a balanced diet.

The recipes are of two types, those adapted to be dairy-free and
traditional favourites meeting that criteria without any adjustment
needed. Many would be suitable for vegetarian diets.

The recipes are varied and imaginative, and cover everything from
soups, salads, snacks, and main dishes to sauces, baked goods, and
desserts. Because many call for products not readily available in most
supermarkets, access to specialty shops is required for items such as
walnut oil, vegan bouillon powder, wakame seaweed, miso, coconut milk,
garam masala, etc. Each recipe comes with both metric and imperial
measures, a detailed nutritional analysis, and a chart of food exchanges
(for diabetics?), which is not explained. The feeble attempt to include
photos didn’t work, and the page layout is not the best. Nonetheless,
this cookbook is informative and a useful resource for those facing the
challenge of preparing varied, nutritious dairy-free meals.