Dac Biet

Starred review from June 1, 2024
Dac Biet, meaning "special" or "distinctive," applies as much to these beautiful dishes from Vietnamese American and New Orleans-born chef Nguyen as it does to her exploration of an immigrant community in the Big Easy. Nguyen shares the deeply personal story of turning down Top Chef to tend to her brother while he battled cancer (she later competed in two seasons) alongside the history of NOLA's Vietnamese community, like the Vietnamese fishermen whose work the city relies on. Bright yellow mango slices dipped in chili sauce showcase both succulent produce and the intricate nail art of the hands holding it, a nod to the talented Vietnamese women who found jobs and community in the U.S. nail industry. Another spread features Nguyen's grandmother peeling dozens of baby white eggplants, driving home the importance of family in the author's culinary narrative. Dishes ranging from fish-sauce caramel chicken wings, rice salad with clams, fried shallots and lemongrass, and Southeast Asian jambalaya (featuring Dungeness crab, Creole seasoning, and jasmine rice) will leave readers salivating and wishing for a warm plate to appear immediately before them. Nguyen captures the attention of both palates and minds in this superb blend of food, memories, and history.

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Starred review from July 1, 2024

Don't skip this book's introduction, because the key to making home-cooked meals dăc bi�t (that is, something special) is revealed right off the bat. Fans of Nguyen from her Top Chef appearances will immediately recognize her vibrant personality in the narrative and recipes, as well as her cuisine rooted in her Vietnamese heritage and New Orleans upbringing. Bright and enjoyable, the colorful photography reflects the layout, which cleverly uses hot pink to highlight the ingredients for quick shopping lists and recipe review. Guides, tips, and pairings are everywhere and make readers feel as though Nguyen is standing next to them, giving a helping hand. Traditional dishes such as b�nh m� and pho are covered at length, but Nguyen also surprises with her Viet Cajun Seafood Boil and other innovative fusion dishes. Recipes run the gamut from easy-to-execute weeknight dishes to more elaborate fare. The phrase "less is more" needs to be thrown out the window with this collection that covers recipes for all occasions, cooking skills, and appetites--all with delicious results. VERDICT Nguyen's delicious efforts to bring her unique cuisine and personal style to print will be a hit with fans and newbies alike.--Sarah Tansley

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