Simply Quince Paperback – August 1, 2009

The book was in fantastic shape - and is a joy to quince people like myself. Shipped SUPER FAST!!!

Just when I thought I was the only quince fanatic out there, along comes Barbara Ghazarian with a beautiful cookbook entirely dedicated to this under-appreciated fruit! If you've only heard of quince jelly or paste before, this book will be a real eye-opener for you, as it is for me. Barbara's innovative recipes take you way, way beyond--to stews, soups, candy, cakes, and more, including pizza. I was also fascinated by this cookbook's opening pages, which deal with the quince's long and storied history, and also explores the science behind why quinces turn a beautiful pink color when you cook them. I was also happy to learn that quince has many health benefits, too! I just was lucky enough to get my hands on some quince, and so far I've made Barbara's recipe for candied quince, and loved it. I may try jelly today...and pizza tomorrow! This book is a totally fun purchase, but so useful too--you might say (forgive me) that it's the quince-essential guide.

We were pleased to find many things about quince that we hadn't known. There were a number of recipes that were a big help in using more of our prolific crop of quinces.The major problem was that many of the recipes contained ingredients that we do not use or have access to.Another thing we found was that the variety of quince that we have so many laundry baskets of is not one that is mentioned, seems to be sweeter and softer and does not keep anywhere near as long as the author indicates the varieties listed should last, even though we keep them in our garage that stays pretty cool.My only other problem is the amount of time spent in the kitchen, although I have to come to grips with the fact that at my advanced age I'm never going to get away from it as long as he keeps growing so many unusual fruits!!We are thankful for the book and will be using it quite a lot and sharing some of the information with friends and relatives who are willing to take some of our surplus. We actually bought a second copy at the same time for our CSA supplier who had also been wondering what to do with the ones we gave her.

I wanted to be the queen of quince but the author already has that honor so what can I do. Anyway, if you've never tried quince, you need to do so ASAP. You've probably seen them at the farmers' market and didn't know what they were. In California I've seen the variety that's on this book's cover (pineapple quince?) and another kind that's more pear-shaped, wrinkled, and fuzzier. The amazing thing about quince is, as it cooks, it turns a beautiful garnet color and gives off a delicious, flowery aroma. There is really no other fruit that tastes like quince. Quince paste is expensive at the grocery store; why not make your own?

Written in simple, direct language, "Simply Quince" is reference book on all things quince. The recipes are well organized with clear directions and helpful comments. Ghazarian eloquently describes quince's long history, adding insight from her Armenian roots and her enthusiasm for the fruit. Although it is not an easy fruit to process, Ghazarian simplifies the procedure. For those who want to go beyond just cooking with quince, there are excellent references to quince varieties, nurseries and even weights and measures for quince. I've already made 10 of the recipes and am looking forward to cooking through many more! Oh yes, the cover picture and recipe photos are truly enticing.

I love this book! It is very difficult to find a person, in the U.S., who knows what a quince is, much less find a book about them.I have had an interest in quinces for many years and have collected quite a few recipes. However, there is always room for more!"Simply Quince" is a wonderful collection of recipes from savoury to sweet, and very well researched. As it is devoted to quinces,it is a treasure trove.I have just managed to used about 20 lbs. of quinces in various recipes, mostly in preserving them, and they have all been beautiful.Adelaide, South Australia

I grow quinces so it was useful.

Do you love and/or have lots of quince? You will be amazed at how many wonderful ways this cookbook describes to prepare, preserve, and enjoy this hardy, prolific, yummy fruit! It's so helpful to have, and great as a gift.

It was a gift for someone who bakes with, makes jam from and collects all things Quince. She loves it.

A gem of a book. Lots of fascinating information. However a but expensive for a paperback.