Not only does it provide a plethora of recipes, but this book provides readers with such valuable information including: how to stock a pantry; kitchen basics; conversion charts and microwave information.
I love that the book is broken down into different sections, such as Fish, Game, Meat, Bread and Cheese and gives and overview of the section before diving into recipes. For example, it explains different fish types and the tasts, as well as providing information on all fo the different parts of the cow.
If you're looking for one cookbook, try this. You won't be disappointed.
In addition to the recipes, there are concise and useful summaries of how to work with various ingredients (what types of fish need to be filleted and how to do it, what type can be served as steaks, etc.) and handy charts comparing various types of ingredients and how to work with them. A chart summarizing, for instance, all the different types of rice with a description of their flavors, cooking times and uses is nice. These charts come in very useful when, for instance, your package of barley does not, in fact, tell you how to cook it! Look it up in the handy grain chart and all the info is there. Especially useful when using unfamiliar ingredients.
The only thing that could make this book better would be if ingredients were listed in the order in which they need to be handled, and if total preparation and cooking time were stated, but since the recipes are so clear, a thorough reading in advance can solve this problem. If you only have one cookbook, this is the one to have. If you have lots, you will find yourself returning to this one over and over for its ease of use and wonderful recipes.
