[Review] Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, and Other Curiously Named Classic Chinese Dishes by Ying Chang Compestine

So unique! This book is part cookbook, part Chinese cooking history, and part graphic novel. On the outset, it might sound a bit disjointed, but the whole thing worked surprisingly well.

I absolutely adored the stories that preceded each recipe. It was a completely different way to be inspired. Whereas most cookbooks rely on pictures to inspire cooks to try a recipe, this one relies on the history and the stories surrounding the dish. While I will never begrudge a good picture, I found the stories to be an exciting medium for inspiration.

And then there are the recipes themselves. They are appetizing classics that range from beginner level to more advanced, making this book accessible to cooks of all skill levels.

There is so much to learn and so much inspiration to be had from this fun graphic novel.

Note: I received this book as an ARC. It is scheduled to be released March 4, 2025.

5 stars