Vegan Soul Kitchen

Vegan Soul Kitchen: Fresh, Healthy, and Creative African-American Cuisine By Bryant Terry, Da Capo Press; 2009. Paperback. $19; 223 pages

It sounds like a preposterous idea, but Terry, a junk food junkie turned eco chef, pulls off vegan soul food deliciously. The proof is in the cooking. Quinoa-Quinoa Cornbread is light and delicious (and whole grain), better than many bacon fat-laden bombs I've tasted. As you cook, be sure to set the mood with Terry's musical recommendations; they're the gravy.

GIVE THIS TO: Hipster and homegirl cooks who love soulful music and even more soulful food. —J.G.