This image is the cover for the book Lady Bean and Family

Lady Bean and Family

Lady Bean and Family, the follow-up to Gerald and Usanna Stribling’s Mr Cabbage and Family, is an in-depth exploration of the world of leguminous plants, presenting a blend of historical, botanical, and culinary perspectives. This book details the development of beans throughout history, examining their botanical structure, emphasizing their nutritional importance and even discussing their sometimes surprising cultural role. The authors share expert knowledge on various aspects of bean cultivation and storage, highlighting different methods of preservation and discussing the health benefits and diverse uses of beans. The narrative takes readers on a global journey, culminating in an extensive collection of recipes that showcase beans in various forms. From savoury snacks popular in the Americas to traditional soybean-based dishes from China and Japan, and even classic French culinary delights, the book provides a wide array of options for cooking enthusiasts and food lovers. Ideal for readers with an interest in food history, botany, and gastronomy, Lady Bean and Family is an informative resource that offers a comprehensive look at one of the world’s most versatile and nutritious plant families.

Gerald Stribling

Gerald Stribling travelled far and wide in his professional working life, appreciating good food prepared in various ways. After retiring, he decided to look a little more closely at cabbages and the cruciferous vegetables. As he dug into the subject, he realised the field was very large and would keep him out of trouble for some time. Usanna Stribling has always had a love affair with food. She feels she was lucky enough to raise her family on a smallholding, growing their own vegetables. Life has afforded her opportunities to travel and enrich her mind and palate along the way, a love which she continues to nourish by living in France. From offering her humble help as a five-year-old on her grandfather’s vegetable plot and now helping her father compiling this book, they’ve continued on their culinary adventures together.

Austin Macauley Publishers