The new “Our American Dream Cookbook’’ is far more than a collection of recipes — it’s a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit. The book is an extension of Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream, a philanthropic program launched by founder and brewer Jim Koch in 2008 to help start-ups in the food and beverage businesses. Author Jennifer Glanville Love — a Samuel Adams brewer and partnership director at The Boston Beer Company — shines a spotlight on 80 “culinary trailblazers’’ who have thrived thanks to the program. These innovators share not only their recipes for snacks, entrees, sides, and desserts, but also their personal journeys and words of wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Among the trailblazers is Amie Kesler of Carolyn’s Krisps in Chicago, who launched her vegan, gluten-free, and soy-free cheddar crackers using her grandmother’s recipe and the program’s support. Her white bean dip with roasted red peppers can pair with any cracker. Boston-area companies include Kristine Cortese and David Warner of City Feed and Supply in Jamaica Plain, who offer their tangy pickled green tomato recipe, and Heather Higgins Yunger of Top Shelf Cookies, whose OFD — Oaty, Fudgy, Delicious — cookies live up to their name. Then there’s Carlene O’Garro, the Boston native behind Delectable Desires Pastries, whose heartfelt journey is inspiring — and whose lemon raspberry cake with vanilla buttercream recipe is worth the effort.
The book wraps up with a nod to its roots — beer — offering a five-step guide to evaluating a brew. You might see the book as a tribute to Jim Koch’s vision of combining business success (he began brewing Samuel Adams beer over 40 years ago) with social impact, but it’s also a good read, especially for anyone dreaming of starting their own venture. $30. Available at amazon.com, target.com, and many other booksellers.
ANN TRIEGER KURLAND
Ann Trieger Kurland can be reached at anntrieger@gmail.com.
