On a gastronomic tour that starts in Thailand and takes the reader through Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Hong Kong and the Philippines to Indonesia, Madhur Jaffrey delves deeply into local traditions and history to describe the cultural and culinary influences that have shaped each nation's unique cuisine. The 100 recipes she has selected reflect this diversity, and are introduced with descriptions of local traditions and produce. They include suggestions for accompaniments and advice on serving, and there are separate sections on equipment and techniques, and descriptions of ingredients (with substitutes where necessary) called for in the recipes.