The 12th Century Benedictine abbess Hildegard of Bingen was blessed with an astonishing array of talents. She was, among other things, a mystic, naturalist, visionary, and composer. Hildegard was also granted, by means of heavenly visions, in-depth knowledge about human nutrition. She believed "foods of joy" revitalized us and helped preserve good health in every sphere-physical, spiritual, and psychological. Famed French chef Jany Fournier-Rosset has mined from Hildegard's writings a collection of over 175 healthful, tasty recipes. You'll find everything from simple jams to chestnut souffl, from spiced wine to Tunisian ratatouille. Plus, there are special bread-making instructions, jam making tips, lists of ingredients with definitions, a glossary, measurement tables, and list of sources.