The Spanish Mediterranean Islands Cookbook

Explore the diverse cuisine of Spain’s Balearic Islands – Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera – through 155 authentic home cooking recipes.

Located off the Spanish Mediterranean coast, the Balearic Islands are renowned for their natural beauty, yet their cuisine has been largely underappreciated. This evocative recipe collection transports readers to the family kitchens, cafes, and markets of the archipelago, revealing a distinct culinary heritage shaped by the region’s geography.

The islands’ most beloved dishes celebrate local produce, familiar Mediterranean ingredients – olive oil and garlic, rice and fresh fish – and resourceful cooking methods passed down for generations. From Menorcan-Style Stuffed Eggplant, Baked Fish with Spinach and Swiss Chard, Black Rice with Cuttlefish and Artichokes, and Pork with Wild Mushrooms to Baked Figs, Almond Cookies, and Formentera’s most famous dessert, Fresh Cheesecake with Mint, the book’s recipes include both sweet and savory classics.

Alongside the bounty of delicious dishes, acclaimed author Jeff Koehler presents vivid short essays highlighting culinary traditions, such as weekly village markets and St Martin’s Day festivities; local ingredients, including cured sausages and tomato preserves; and essential techniques, such as preparing a perfect sofregit. Illustrated with gorgeous photography of the food and local landscapes, The Spanish Mediterranean Islands Cookbook captures the essence of one of the world’s most enchanting destinations.

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‘The first of its kind.’ – Montreal Gazette

‘A love letter to the Balearic Islands.’ – Seattle Times

‘Although the islands are better known for their pristine beaches and sun-drenched cliffs, Jeff Koehler’s new book aims to give the food some worthy attention.’ – Associated Press

‘Jeff Koehler explores the cuisine of the Balearic Islands, a region with a unique culinary identity shaped by self-sufficiency and seasonality.’ – National Geographic Traveler

‘If you’re passionate about Mediterranean cuisine, The Spanish Mediterranean Islands Cookbook is a must-have. This book is not only a culinary guide, but a sensorial journey through the essence of the Balearic Islands.’ – People en Español

‘From the very first words… we are captivated.’ – Le Vif

‘With 150 recipes, this book immerses readers into the cuisine and culture of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera.’ – Le Chef

‘If you’re looking to expand your repertoire of Mediterranean foods… [it] will scratch that culinary itch pretty deliciously.’ – The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

‘Looking for some sun? From the first page, this book invites you on a gourmet voyage to the Balearic Islands.’ – Flow

‘A sun-drenched culinary journey.’ – Elle à Table 

‘This evocative collection of more than 150 local recipes and stories from the home cook celebrates the unique cuisine and culture of the Balearic Islands.’ – Upscale Living, ‘Encyclopedic in scope… yet it is also intimate in its portrayal of the dishes as products of culture and cultural collision, climate, community and the innovation in the face of scarcity that is such a familiar companion to all island cuisines.’ – The Post (Wellington), ‘These are not only recipes we discover, but also the history of each of these islands.’ – Cuisine et Vins de France, ‘A sunlit introduction to this gastronomy.’ – Milk Decoration, ‘A journey between Menorca, Ibiza, and Mallorca through 150 recipes.’ – Madame Figaro

• Format: Hardback
• Dimensions: 270mm x 205mm
• Pages: 352
• Illustrations: 145
• Brand: Phaidon
• ISBN: 9781838669492