Fast-Day Cookery; or, Meals without Meat

by Grace Johnson

"Fast-Day Cookery; or, Meals without Meat" by Grace Johnson is a culinary guidebook written in the late 19th century. This book primarily focuses on providing a variety of meatless recipes suitable for specific fasting days observed in both Anglican and Roman Catholic communities. It aims to showcase how vegetarian cuisine can be both nutritious and appetizing, especially during periods of dietary restrictions." The content of the book is structured around various categories of dishes, including soups, sauces, fish preparations, eggs, legumes, rice, and desserts, all adhering to a meatless theme. Each recipe is carefully crafted to highlight the use of fish and vegetables, offering alternatives that cater to the dietary needs of those observing fasts. Grace Johnson emphasizes the importance of preparation and presentation, suggesting several methods for enhancing flavors and textures in simple vegetarian fare. From hearty soups like "Oyster Soup" and "Lobster Soup" to creative vegetable dishes such as "Potato Baskets" and "Farced Cucumbers," the book provides over a hundred recipes aimed at inspiring home cooks to embrace a meat-free lifestyle without sacrificing taste and satisfaction.