I bet you’re doing as many mental gymnastics as I was when I saw this title. Originally, I thought this cookbook was referring to baking Christmas tree shaped cookies and eating them. It honestly took me a bit to finally level with the thought of eating an actual Christmas tree – I was stuck on the whole concept. But it is real and someone was thoughtful enough to experiment with this whole idea for us to create some amazing meals.
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The author of How to Eat Your Christmas Tree, Julia Geogallis, has graciously called these winter delights “comforting conifers”. Already, I am intrigued.
We begin with what to expect with a plant-based and more sustainable diet. Basically, this cookbook celebrates nature in the most genuine way possible: using flavors that Mother Nature has already gifted us without any additives. Geogallis explores the almost primitive paradigm of using all the parts of an item to its fullest potential. This doesn’t just apply to animal products, but plants as well. This book encourages us to be more mindful of our surroundings and appreciate what nature has to offer.
She does a lovely job breaking down each tree and its flavor. Be wary of what trees you do try to cook from – some are poisonous if you’ve consumed too much. I’m sure Juniper was the first to pop out at you from above – that’s because using trees in our cooking isn’t an entirely foreign concept. As most of us know, gin is made from Juniper berries, which do have a pine flavor.
This cookbook is filled with beautiful photos of recipes and trees alike. Again, this is a homage to Mother Nature and that we should embrace all parts of it!
There are unfortunately only 22 recipes ranging from main courses, appetizers, and desserts. I wish there were more! Chapters include recipes for ferments & preserves, feast food, sweet treats, and drinks. I do appreciate that for almost every recipe there is a brief description of the recipe you are about to make. There will be tips or tricks or sometimes just expectations to have for each plate. She describes how each tree brings a specific flavor to the dish and what pairs best with it.
I am fascinated with the idea of making desserts with trees. Some of these combinations of flavors will definitely pack a punch! I would be curious to see how they fair with the kids, because they are the pickiest eaters.
This is a very educational cookbook with an important message about our environment! How to Eat Your Christmas Tree, is definitely not a cookbook for beginner cooks. This cookbook is designed for those who have cooking experience but would like to dive into a more niche cooking style.
Are you brave enough to try How to Eat Your Christmas Tree a cookbook by Julia Geogallis? I would love to hear what kind of feasts come of cooking with your Christmas tree.
~Kaiti
