Jess Ross, celebrated baker and founder of Gold Island Bakery in Nova Scotia, brings her passion for whole-grain baking to life in Rise: A Devotion to Whole Grains. This narrative cookbook is not just a collection of recipes but a heartfelt exploration of the culinary, cultural, and nutritional significance of whole grains. Featuring stunning photography by JK Murphy, the book offers readers an engaging journey into Jess’s wood-fired bakery in Scotch Village and her commitment to sustainable, flavorful food. https://goldislandbakery.ca/
Ross’s recipes are as inviting as they are diverse, drawing inspiration from her bakery’s menu, which has delighted customers since its humble beginnings as a bicycle-delivery service in 2009. The book organizes its chapters by grain, covering classics like rye, oats, and spelt, as well as lesser-known varieties such as Kamut and buckwheat. Standout recipes include Seven Grain Sourdough, Buckwheat Blueberry Grunt, and the regionally inspired Maritime Oatcakes. Ross’s approach balances technical guidance with storytelling, making whole-grain baking approachable for beginners and rewarding for seasoned bakers alike.
We usually associate salads with summer, but I love them year around. Ross’ Kamut Salad in our Recipe section will entice you to explore other winter salads that are healthy and filling. Change up the grains and fruit for variations of this recipe.
One of the book’s highlights is its deep connection to local and sustainable practices. Ross showcases the grains’ origins and their role in regional food traditions. Her bakery mirrors this ethos, using organic, locally sourced ingredients and a wood-fired oven to craft products that are as wholesome as they are delicious. Visitors to Gold Island Bakery are treated to an authentic experience: the scent of fresh sourdough, shelves stocked with preserves made from unsprayed fruits, and a curated selection of artisanal cheeses.
The accompanying photography by JK Murphy enriches the narrative, offering readers a glimpse of the bakery’s rustic charm and the meticulous artistry behind each loaf. These visuals underscore the book’s central theme: baking with whole grains is not just about sustenance but an act of connection—to nature, community, and tradition. https://www.instagram.com/jk.murphy/?hl=en
In Rise, Ross also delves into the challenges and joys of running a small-scale bakery. Her reflections on transitioning from a bike-based delivery service to a permanent fixture in Scotch Village add a personal touch, while her practical tips on baking techniques empower readers to bring these whole-grain recipes into their own kitchens. Get your copy of Rise at https://goldislandbakery.ca/collections/books or win the book in our Giveaway section.
If you’re seeking a cookbook that combines accessible recipes, sustainable practices, and heartfelt storytelling, Rise is a must-have. Jess Ross doesn’t just teach you how to bake with whole grains—she inspires you to embrace a lifestyle of mindful, flavorful eating.
Reprinted with permission from Nimbus Publishing. Text copyright © Jess Ross, 2024. Photography © JK Murphy, 2024 https://nimbus.ca/store/rise.html
