James Oseland has spent two decades exploring the foods of the Spice Islands and few can introduce the reader to the birthplace of spice as he does. In easily made, accessible recipes, he presents the Nyonya dishes of Singapore and Malaysia, the fiery specialties of West Sumatra and the spicy-aromatic stews of Java. Included is a helpful glossary (illustrated in colour) of all the ingredients you need to make the dishes and how to buy them. "Cradle of Flavor" invites readers to share in Oseland's passion for the area - the home of nutmeg, cloves, galangal, turmeric and some of the most lavishly spiced dishes on the planet - countries that have lured spice seekers for millennia. More than a cookbook, it celebrates colourful people, majestic places and unforgettable food.

About the Author

James Oseland's writing has appeared in Gourmet, Saveur, and Vogue. He has been travelling to Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia for twenty years. He lives in New York City.