The Cosmic Feast, Divine Inspiration for Earthly Pleasures ~ David McKay, Anna Johnson, Kirsten McKay

The Cosmic Feast is just as it proclaims to be - a feast for the senses. Mambo artist David McKay provides the gorgeously rich illustrations that are a highlight of the book, and Anna Johnson profiles each star sign, with recipes by Kirsten McKay set into a menu for seduction by star sign. The book is accompanied by a CD featuring twelve 'songs of seduction' - one for each star sign (to accompany the seductive meal).

The recipes are very well thought out, and very sexy and appealing. Take for instance the chapter on Taurus - after discussing the Taurean appetite and then the Taurean seduction where you can "anticipate the ultimate rewards... when the dozing beast of sensuality rouses and transforms into raging bull", a menu set for this event is provided. For the Taurus there are Deep fried prawn balls with a sweet chilli and cucumber dipping sauce, Lobster and fresh mixed fungi salad with egg noodles, Beef brisket with red braised sauce and spinach and Chilli roasted chicken with deep-fried cabbage and spring onion. For dessert Taurus is offered Ginger and coconut milk custards with fresh mango salad. To accompany the meal Champagne is suggested to start, followed by Sauvignon blanc, Jasmine tea and then Fortified muscatel. I don't know about Taureans but this combination would go a long way towards seducing this Gemini.

Recommended for sensuous cooks looking for sexy menus to seduce by. Don't forget the seductive soundtrack.

- kath