Book excerpt: The classic international cookbook with “explanations of the origins of spices and how to use them [and] scores of recipes that are of absolute first rank” (The New York Times). First published in 1964, The Spice Cookbook is an astounding treasury of over 1,400 recipes from around the world. As the title implies, this book contains a wealth of fascinating and mouth-watering information about a huge range of spices and herbs including flavor profiles, uses (culinary and otherwise), and historical information about where each herb and spice originated and how they made their way around the globe. Recipes range in complexity from staples like simple baked breads, grains, and vegetables to exotic international dishes that will challenge even a seasoned cook. Peppered with beautiful watercolors and line drawings, this book will take you on a delicious culinary journey.