Fragrant Rice

This memoir, peppered with authentic Balinese recipes, is a love letter to the food and culture of Bali

When Janet De Neefe stepped off the plane in Bali in 1974, she felt an immediate connection to this island paradise. Though curious about Bali's culture, its warm people and its mouthwatering cuisine, she didn't expect to fall in love with a Balinese man and make a new life there. Now, years later, Janet and her husband have four children and run two of the most successful restaurants in Bali.

In this delightful memoir, Janet shares entertaining stories of being 'gently shaped like warm rice for offerings' as she adapts to another culture and way of life. She offers insights into the ancient myths and rituals still alive in Bali today and passes on delicious recipes handed down through generations of her husband's family.

Fragrant Rice shows how the love, hope and warmth that makes this island such a special place is still very much alive today.

Family recipes included are:

Ayam Gerang Asem (Sour Chicken Stew)
Bubur Injin (Black Rice Pudding)
Ikan Mekuah (Fish Soup)
Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice)
Satay Manis (Beef Satay)
Babi Kecap (Pork in Sweet Chilli Sauce)
Gado-Gado (Vegetables in Peanut Sauce)
Bregedel Tahu (Tofu Fritters)
Kolak (Fruits in Coconut Milk)