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Indian-Ish


Synopsis


Named one of the Best Cookbooks of Spring 2019 by the New York Times, Eater, and Bon Appétit

"A joy to cook from, and just as much fun to read." -Margaux Laskey, the New York Times

A witty and irresistible celebration of one very cool and boundary-breaking mom's "Indian-ish" cooking-with accessible and innovative Indian-American recipes

Indian food is everyday food! This colorful, lively book is food writer Priya Krishna's loving tribute to her mom's "Indian-ish" cooking-a trove of one-of-a-kind Indian-American hybrids that are easy to make, clever, practical, and packed with flavor. Think Roti Pizza, Tomato Rice with Crispy Cheddar, Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Green Pea Chutney, and Malaysian Ramen.

Priya's mom, Ritu, taught herself to cook after moving to the U.S. while also working as a software programmer-her unique creations merging the Indian flavors of her childhood with her global travels and inspiration from cooking shows as well as her kids' requests for American favorites like spaghetti and PB&Js. The results are approachable and unfailingly delightful, like spiced, yogurt-filled sandwiches crusted with curry leaves, or "Indian Gatorade" (a thirst-quenching salty-sweet limeade)-including plenty of simple dinners you can whip up in minutes at the end of a long work day.

Throughout, Priya's funny and relatable stories-punctuated with candid portraits and original illustrations by acclaimed Desi pop artist Maria Qamar (also known as Hatecopy)-will bring you up close and personal with the Krishna family and its many quirks.

Priya Krishna (author), Ritu Krishna (author), Maria Qamar (illustrator), Padma Lakshmi (writer of foreword)

Summary

Chapter 1: The Importance of Being Indian

* Argues that Indian-Americans face unique challenges and opportunities in balancing their Indian and American identities.
* Example: A young Indian-American woman feels pressure to conform to Indian cultural expectations while also desiring to express her American values.

Chapter 2: The Indian Way

* Explores the cultural norms and beliefs that shape Indian-American families.
* Example: A traditional Indian-American family emphasizes respect for elders, arranged marriages, and a strong work ethic.

Chapter 3: American Dream, Indian Reality

* Discusses the complexities of Indian-American striving for success in American society.
* Example: A high-achieving Indian-American student faces pressure to fulfill both his parents' expectations and his own dreams.

Chapter 4: Identity Crisis

* Delves into the internal struggle that Indian-Americans experience in reconciling their multiple identities.
* Example: A young Indian-American man feels both proud of his Indian heritage and disconnected from his American peers.

Chapter 5: Colorblind, Yet Not

* Addresses the issue of racial and ethnic discrimination that Indian-Americans face in American society.
* Example: An Indian-American woman experiences microaggressions and assumptions based on her skin color.

Chapter 6: The Indian Diaspora

* Examines the global Indian diaspora and its impact on Indian-American identity.
* Example: An Indian-American family moves to India for a period of time, giving the children a firsthand experience of their ancestral homeland.

Chapter 7: The Future of Indian-America

* Speculates on the future of Indian-American identity and its role in American society.
* Example: Indian-American youth increasingly embrace a hybrid identity that combines elements of both cultures.

Chapter 8: The Indian-American Narratives

* Discusses the diverse experiences and perspectives of Indian-Americans.
* Example: A collection of essays and short stories by Indian-American writers offers a multifaceted exploration of their lives and identities.

Chapter 9: The Journey to Indian-Ish

* Explores the concept of "Indian-Ish," a term coined by the author to describe the unique and evolving identity of Indian-Americans.
* Example: An Indian-American family celebrates both Hindu and Christian holidays, reflecting their blended cultural heritage.

Chapter 10: A Call to Bridge

* Argues for greater understanding and appreciation of Indian-American culture and identity.
* Example: A community group hosts a workshop on bridging the cultural divide between Indian-Americans and other American communities.