• Pure & Special (Roli Books, R472): Award-winning author of Pure & Simple, Vidhu Mittal has published another great collection of Indian vegetarian cuisine. With a focus on gourmet, rather than home-made, it elevates vegetarian fare to a whole new level with dishes like lotuspearl kebabs and sesame milk fudge temptation. Enticed? Highlight: Each recipe contains step-by-step photographs as well as tips and notes from the author.

    Toro Bravo (McSweeney’s, R476): This is the unique story of chef patron John Graham and the building of his great Spanish restaurant, Toro Bravo, which has garnered a cult-like fan base in Portland, US. Filled with quirky insights into the personalities behind the scenes, it offers recipes for the eclectic Spanish dishes served at Toro Bravo, as well as a great Spanish cocktail section. Highlight: Be prepared to laugh out loud… a lot!