This is the first book I have read by Nigel Slater, and I love his blunt yet laid back approach. The beginning reads like a novel and includes many tips, menu plans, and flavour combinations. However, this book is not about exact measurements, and it may frustrate those who prefer that. Instead, it emphasizes how to become a confident cook and develop your own food instincts - rather than be restricted by a specific recipe. What is even more fun is that every single recipe is followed by even more tips and variations - the possibilities are endless. I recommend it if you want to become a little more inventive in the kitchen as it's full of big flavours and hearty recipes.
Jamie at Home: Cook Your Way to the Good Life
I love this book for so many reasons – not only is it organized into seasons, but it is also organized by specific foods/ingredients. Jamie encourages us to eat locally and seasonally if possible. He makes me excited to get in the kitchen and cook with fresh ingredients. If only I wasn’t living in an apartment – without a window sill or balcony - I would jump right into creating my dream vegetable garden. In all of his write ups and introductions, Jamie is so open and honest (and funny!). He also includes detailed growing instructions for many of the veggies in his garden (with soil, planting, and harvesting tips). In the back is a compiled list of all his favourite seed and plant varieties with ordering information as well. The first recipe I tried was the Beautiful Zucchini Carbonara and it turned out fantastic. He continues to push the barrier with interesting food combinations such as his Favorite Hot and Sour Rhubarb and Crispy Pork with Noodles and comfort foods such as Humble Home-Cooked Beans and various pizza recipes.
Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics: Fabulous Flavor from Simple Ingredients
This book is both simple and exciting. There is something comforting about Ina, and I have always enjoyed watching her on The Food Network. Her approach is simple- buy fresh ingredients and 'unlock' their natural flavours. She will cover everything from breakfast to cocktail hour. The photography superb and the book is beautiful on all fronts. I have not tried everything yet, but to give you a sampling of recipes I have enjoyed: Parmesan & Thyme Crackers, Cream of Fresh Tomato Soup, Roasted Potato Leek Soup, Creamy Cucumber Salad, Tomato & Goat Cheese Tarts, Spring Green Risotto, Maple-Roasted Butternut Squash, Parmesan Roasted Broccoli, Chive Risotto Cakes and more. I have yet to delve into Homemade Granola Bars, French Chocolate Bark, and Pumpkin Roulade! And not to worry, there are many meaty dishes for those interested - Tuscan Lemon Chicken, Company Pot Roast, Baked Shrimp Scampi, Bay Scallop Gratins, and Beef Stew.
The New Becoming Vegetarian: The Essential Guide To A Healthy Vegetarian Diet
I had to include this book, simply because it is so helpful and informative! It is not a cookbook by nature, but more of a nutritional guide. I think if you were ‘becoming’ a vegetarian, it might seem a little daunting or ‘information overload’. On the other hand, it includes everything you will need. I have been a vegetarian for most of my life, but I did not necessarily go about things in the healthiest manner. In reading this, I have realized what I am lacking and what I must change. It is simply a great resource – without being preachy on the subject of vegetarianism. The recipes are not gourmet (if that is what you are looking for), but I did enjoy the two I tried: sautéed kale and the Chunky Red Lentil Tomato Sauce!
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