Pros: A nice simple cookbook for someone who doesn’t have much experience and doesn’t want to be overwhelmed
Cons: …
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Review book (published 2011) courtesy of Chronicle Books
Some time ago I reviewed Megan & Jill Carle’s College Cooking book—a handy guide to making simple meals with only a minimal kitchen and supplies. Their The First Real Kitchen Cookbook: 100 Recipes and Tips for New Cooks
Pros: Fun, intriguing, and educational memoir material; delicious recipes
Cons: Some recipes could have been a little better
Rating: 4 out of 5
Review book (published 20011) provided by Chronicle Books.
Janice Cole, a food writer and recipe developer, decided she’d like to try raising a few chickens for their eggs at home. She did a little research—by her own admission, not enough—and raised three hens from little chicks. Before long she was discovering all the joys of such an endeavor: the love of cuddly, excitable animals; the delight of fresh eggs… the mountain of chicken poop; the problems caused by cold winters; and on and on. Through good and bad, she learned a lot and enjoyed the bounty of her hens.
Pros: Simple, delicious, hilarious
Cons: …
Rating: 5 out of 5
Review book (published 2009) courtesy of Chronicle Books.
Also posted on Epinions.com.
Ahh, guacamole. Is there another food that is as decadent and yet healthful at the same time? Avocados have a rich taste and creamy texture. Sure they’re fatty, but they’re exploding with healthful nutrients. Nowadays you won’t just find avocados in food—you’ll find them in shampoos and skin treatments. They’re buttery and flavorful, and when you mash them with a little lime juice and salt, and serve with tortilla chips, they’re divine. But maybe you’ve already discovered that there’s more to guacamole than that. Some chefs add chopped tomato. Others add diced chilies. Perhaps you’ve experienced one of the more “out there” guacs with fresh herbs, mashed fruit, or a variety of veggies in it. While there are purists who run in horror from such concoctions, Nathan Myers encourages you to explore your options in Guac Off!
Pros: Delicious, easy recipes! Full of character, humor, & history
Cons: Strong personality that won’t appeal to everyone!
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros: Stunning (and stunningly delicious) desserts; amazing photos; playful flare
Cons: Not for the casual cook!
Rating: 5 out of 5
