Friday, December 23, 2011

isn't everything better when it's smaller?

Isn't that the saying? No? Oh, well in this case it is! Marguerite Marceau Henderson compiles recipes that fit this mold- Small Plates: Appetizers as Meals. This is one timeless cookbook in which I thoroughly enjoying perusing the beautiful photography that grace its pages; it's a bonus that the meals she delivers are delicious too! Ms. Henderson provides us with the perfect portions to serve up for an initmate gathering of two or a cocktail party for 12.

At a get together, don't you often discover yourself gathered around the kitchen just munching on snacks, finding to be full when the actual meal is served? For all of you who know me, know that I don't disappoint on the amount of appetizers I like to serve, so this book is a perfect addition to my collection and I believe to any person who fancies a party.

Recipes include the classic pariring of Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Bundles (perfect for the Spring Fling), the smoky Asian Grilled Steak on Sesame Slaw (using a tri-trip steak in this recipe is a reason to celebrate seeing as it is a cost-effective choice of meat, can be low in fat if trimmed, and remains tender when marinated and cooked) and Free Form Ravioli with Crabmeat and Shrimp (major bonus points for host with the artful presentation of this!)

Ms. Henderson breaks it down into Breadstuffs, Meats and Poultry, Pastas and Grains, Sauces and Salsas, Salads, Seafood, Soups and Stews, and Vegetables. I do not doubt there is a guaranteed recipe you will want to serve at your next hosting gig and if not, well then, I will introduce you to full sized meals to be served after the small plates!

Amazon Books
Barnes and Noble

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

where to start?

What's a Cook to Do? by James Peterson is an essential for every cook- from those just starting out to the seasoned pro. This book has quickly become one that I frequently turn to to refresh my skills, or lack thereof! It covers the basics from how to chop, dice, and julienne a carrot to how to make fresh home-made pasta (we will come back to this lesson!) to how to carve a turkey. What's a Cook to Do provides 484 detailed instructions, with photographs, so anyone can follow the toughest of culinary duties. What kind of pan should I purchase? How do I wash leeks? And what do I do to rescue flavorless fruits? I now hold the knowledge to the answers of these questions! What's a cook to do? Um, they should go and buy this book!

Amazon Books
Barnes and Noble