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Skinny Cooks Can't Be Trusted
by Mo'Nique with Sherri McGee McCovey
Amistad (HarperCollins)
ISBN 0-06-112105-3
Published October 2006 - Hardcover - 162 pages - $26.95

You know what you're in for when the dedication of this books says: "This book is dedicated to all those who aren't afraid to eat."  Imagine!  Comedienne Mo'Nique's book is all she loves about food and she's not shy with her ingredients.  But, she does say in her Introduction: "Yes, these recipes are rich, which means that unless you get your workout on (like I do regularly), they're not meant to be eaten every day!"  My mantra - everything in moderation and you won't feel deprived.  The book is divided into various occasions or moods if you will, like: "The Morning After Breakfast" or "First Dinner" or "Those Kids are Workin' My Nerves".  Some of Mo'Nique's recipes I fancy include Fluffy Scrambled Eggs with Green Onions; Garlic Shrimp; Beef and Jalapeño Chili; Oxtail Stew with Potatoes, Carrots, and Onions (you'll know how I feel about Oxtail Stew if you read my other cookbook reviews!); Braised Cabbage, and Baked Garlic and Basil Chicken.  Oh, Shepherd's Pie is only Shepherd's Pie when it's made with lamb/mutton.  Anything else and it's Cottage Pie.  I don't like black and white food pictures, and the abundant photos of Mo'Nique's decolletage is more than enough.  Personally, any dish with Cheez Whiz is a no-no, nevermind one to feed to a potential mate.
Partially illustrated.  No nutritional guides, naturally.  This book is also part biographical.
Conclusion - I didn't find the recipes particularly "fattening" - just average ingredients.