September 12th
1pm
Books pre-ordered here will be available for in-store pick up at our Rockefeller Center location the day of the signing, September 12th at 1pm.
Pre-purchase is encouraged but not necessary to attend the event. Additional copies will be for sale at the store the day of the signing. The author is not able to sign books purchased outside McNally Jackson.
From award-winning author and acclaimed chef JJ Johnson comes a cookbook full of delicious recipes that celebrate the history and versatility one of the world's essential foods.
"Comforting, joyful and utterly delicious – this is an essential cookbook" ―Jamie Oliver
The Simple Art of Rice is a celebration of rice and the many cultures in which this life-giving grain takes pride of place at the center of every table. The recipes are influenced by these global flavors from Asia to Europe, Africa to the Americas, and feature many of the world's favorite dishes. With Danica Novgorodoff, award-winning author Chef JJ Johnson takes readers on an informative and exciting culinary adventure that will help anyone master the art of cooking rice.
From iconic savory dishes like Liberian Jollof and Poppy William's Red Rice and Beans to sweet finishes like Champorado, The Simple Art of Rice has a rice dish for every kind of meal and occasion, including nourishing comfort foods and dishes that can be made quickly to transform a weeknight dinner into a feast. The book also features a fool-proof method for turning out perfect rice every time, as well as fascinating information on the role that rice has played in culture and history.
"In The Simple Art of Rice, JJ Johnson offers a love song to the world’s second most popular grain. In the magistral volume, Johnson takes the reader on a worldwide tour of rice from the field to the kitchen and presents its history, cultivation, and multiple uses. Informative and fascinating to read, fun to cook from, it is a work that deserves a place on every cook’s bookshelf." ―Jessica B. Harris, Culinary Historian, and author of High on the Hog
“There’s no one better than JJ Johnson at helping you cook in your own kitchen. The Simple Art of Rice is a beautiful book and a masterclass for your family’s table.” ―Selena Gomez
“Rice is universally enjoyed around the world. As much a historiography as recipe book: JJ takes you on a soulful rice culinary journey. His recipes offer both new inspiration and century-old techniques, leaving you to question how you ever treated rice as an afterthought.” ―Daniel Boulud, Chef/Restaurateur
"Chef JJ Johnson's new cookbook, The Simple Art of Rice, is a masterful exploration of one of the world's most beloved ingredients. With stunning illustrations, photography and recipes from all over the globe, Johnson takes readers on a journey through the history and culture of rice, from its origins to modern-day dishes. This cookbook is an essential resource for anyone looking to make the most of this versatile and delicious grain. With Johnson's expert guidance, even the most novice cook can create delicious and satisfying meals. The Simple Art of Rice is sure to be a favorite for both beginners and experienced cooks alike." ―David Chang
Cultural tastemaker, family man and renowned American chef, JJ Johnson is most recognized for his innovative approach to African Caribbean cuisine. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the James Beard Foundation Book Award and a two-time spot on the Nation’s Restaurant News Power List. He has been featured on a variety of TV shows including Food Network’s Chopped, Netflix’s Street Food, and Selena + Chef on HBO Max and hosts his own show, Just Eats with Chef JJ, airing for its fifth season on TV One's network Cleo TV this fall. Chef JJ's highly anticipated cookbook, The Simple Art of Rice: Recipes from Around the World for the Heart of Your Table, will be released in September 2023.
At Fieldtrip, JJ’s rapidly growing multi-unit fast casual rice bowl concept, he champions sustainability, working with local rice farmers and producers to source the freshest ingredients. With four locations throughout New York City, he is a community advocate for food justice and equity raising awareness within the industry.