Ever watch a Merchant-Ivory film? Those of us who have, walk away with new worlds revealed and an urge to go and experience all that is available in this wonderful world.

Ismael Merchant was Indian-born, a man of the many different worlds and his sensitivity and acceptance of all that came to him made him a great storyteller and extraordinary gourmet and bon vivant.

An integral aspect of Merchant's life was food. He believed that food and its preparation was a form of our individual expression. (Now you know why I love him.) He also believed in sharing his love of food with others and wrote several books on the subject:  Ismael Merchant's Passionate Meals, Ismael Merchant's Florence, Ismael Merchant's Indian Cuisine and Ismael Merchant's Paris. 

The books are wonderful reads with really spot-on recipes. I urge you to try: Broccoli and Lemon Gazpacho, Indian Rice Pudding, Mackerel in Coconut Sauce. Yum, Yum, Yum...

Also go back through memory lane and celebrate his Merchant-Ivory films: A Room with a View, Jefferson in Paris, Howard's End, Remains of the Day...you might even want to marathon it!

Hugs

Jessica