832 pages, Hardcover
First published March 28,2004
I have absolutely no words to describe just how wonderful this book truly is. I really, really do not. It's simply amazing.
I discovered it at Hastings during a trip to Stillwater last year. It was tucked away in a corner on a bottom bookshelf, so easy to overlook. It took us a while to figure out the difference between it and the other editions. But once we did, my friend and I fell in love with it instantly and purchased matching copies. I have never regretted this decision.
While individual recipes are relatively easy to find, the Table of Contents is not. There are some areas where I wish the organization was better. However, overall, considering the vast amount of information it contains, it is remarkably well organized. The navigation, once you get the hang of it, is simple and relatively straightforward. Each section is prefaced with essential information about the topic. For example, the section on Beef is prefaced with cooking instructions, an overview of Beef cuts, and more. Likewise, the Pasta section has a small glossary of Pasta types, and so on for each chapter.
There is also a wide variety of recipes. Some of them are a bit fancier than what the average person may be able to make, but they aren't overly ostentatious like some other cookbooks I own. It also includes relatively classic recipes that most people should know. Additionally, some cultural recipes are thrown in, which I think is a very nice touch.
To be honest, it contains so much information on every conceivable subject that it can almost be overwhelming. But it is unbelievably informative and educational, making it a great starter's book. Based on this point alone, I believe it is an absolute must-have for anyone who is new to cooking, moving out on their own for the first time, or even the more experienced homemaker and chef. The information it provides is truly invaluable.