Romantic fantasy set in Mexico during the early 20th century. A young couple is blocked from marrying by the demands of the young woman's cold and selfish mother. To be near his love, the young man marries her sister, and she expresses her passion for him through her cooking.

A #1 bestseller in Mexico in 1990, this charming, imaginative, and just plain fun novel of family life in turn-of-the-century Mexico includes unique recipes at the beginning of each chapter for a variety of traditional dishes.

When Pedro asks Mama Elena for the hand of her youngest daughter, Tita, he is offered her sister instead. Tita, a magical cook, shares recipes that, seasoned by her emotions, have an extraordinary impact on the event that follow her mother's decision.