Slavic Kitchen Alchemy: Nourishing Herbal Remedies, Magical Recipes & Folk Wisdom

Polish author Zak (Amber & Rye) connects with her Slavic ancestry and folklore to provide holistic recipes for well-being. The book is organized by season and opens with an introduction that sheds light on the historical and cultural context of its cuisine. Each chapter opens with additional information related to the season, incorporating family lore and Slavic customs and traditions. The book is a wonderful mix of home remedies, cleaning solutions, crafts, rituals (there is one for “letting go,” featured with instructions on making a candle), and, of course, delicious recipes. Readers will find instructions, ingredients, and components for creating everything from a sage cleaning spray to lilac body oil to oat and barley pancakes with cinnamon butter. There is even a history of the pisanki, a Polish decorated egg that is commonly made for Easter, as well as a rye chain craft. Each craft, ritual, or recipe explains the desired health outcome (a pine bath decoction for a good night’s sleep; a mirabelle plum jam to relieve stress).