The iconic Padmashree Thangam E Philip (1921–2009) was a giant in the world in cooking,  catering and nutrition. In her long career, spanning more than 50 years, she  worked tirelessly to educate people about the joys and health-giving benefits  of cooking. Her recipes, always simple but delicious, have inspired countless  numbers to take up the culinary arts. 
  In this book, she embarks on a gastronomic  journey through the wonderful and diverse world of plants. From roots to  leaves, cereals to spices, and nuts to fruits, she describes their nutritional  benefits medicinal properties and how to use them in everyday cooking—a subject  very close to her heart. Packed with her favourite, tried-and-tested recipes,  this, her last work, is a testimony to her lifelong interest in vegetarianism and  the role of food in healthy living.