The Blue Heron Ranch Cookbook

“Not only are the recipes in this book delicious and easy to follow, the story that accompanies the recipes is both fascinating and lyrical—a real life triumph in a world that needs to know of these possibilities and victories. The illustrations are inspired and stylistically magical. Kudos to this mother/daughter team for creating such a fabulous read for all of us looking not only for a new culinary experience, but love at the table. I have given this book to five different people as gifts, and I have received a glowing phone call and review from each of them, along with their thanks.”—Christine Denney, chef, The Ranch House, Ojai, California “How fondly I remember my days on the construction crew of Blue Heron Ranch. When we were hungry, we ate—when thirsty, we drank. Lucky for us, Nadia usually did the cooking! Now, lucky for you, she’s written a cookbook of hearty meals and heartfelt stories!”—Jim Tolpin, author of The New Family Home and The New Cottage Home“Natali’s simple, wholesome, and practical dishes are the result of long hours in the kitchen and can be adapted to serve two or twenty. Recipes are complemented by charming illustrations by one of her daughters and her short reflections on the joys and challenges of living in the Californian wilderness.” —Shambhala Sun “Each of the dishes, dressings and desserts are explained in a manner that is clear and concise, and should be easily followed by everyone, from the culinary beginner to the expert chef. While most of the dishes are fairly simple to make, many are rare and adventurous enough to satiate even a seasoned palate.” —Nao Braverman, Ojai Valley News “Nadia Natali tells of her family and life’s work, while sharing the recipes that have sustained both for 30 years. Colorful drawings animate the narrative and garnish tempting delicacies like Ojai bouillabaisse and June apricot cake.”—Santa Barbara Seasons magazine “[The Blue Heron Ranch Cookbook] is not only a cookbook but a story…The illustrations are darling… warm and whimsical. And the recipes are down to earth and delicious.”—Naptime Reviews

Nadia Natali grew up in Westport Connecticut, graduated from Columbia University in New York, and received an MA in dance therapy from Hunter College. During this period, she met her future husband, Enrico Natali. The Natalis lived for eight years in the backwoods of northern NY and moved to Ojai, California, when their first child was born. Soon after arriving in Ojai, Enrico became a serious Zen practitioner and over the years attended many Zen retreats. After Nadia tried one in 1989, they decided to start a modest meditation retreat center. Since that time they’ve hosted numerous weekend and eight-day retreats. Nadia cooks all the meals in addition to participating in the meditations. Each participant helps with the preparation of meals and clean-up.

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