Cookbook Recommendations

Cookbook recommendations from a chef who also loves to cook at home.

These are cookbooks which I have used since I was a home cook, and also use now as a professional chef.

Crave: A Culinary Journey with Ed Smith

With an approachable writing style and its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, "Crave" is not just a cookbook; it's an invitation to embrace the pleasures of the table and unleash one's creativity in the kitchen. Whether it's a cozy family meal or a lavish dinner party, Ed Smith's "Crave" is the perfect companion for anyone seeking to elevate their culinary repertoire and infuse their cooking with love and flair. It is a treasure trove of inspiration of both seasoned cooks and enthusiastic beginners. 

3 Main Highlights are…

1. Innovative Flavors and Ingredients
2. Global Culinary Inspiration
3. Accessible and Engaging Writing

The Flavour Thesaurus - Niki Segnit

The Flavour Thesaurus by Niki Segnit is a comprehensive guide to flavor pairings and combinations. The book explores 99 different flavors and provides thought-provoking and delightful descriptions of how they interact with one another. Segnit's work goes beyond traditional recipe collections, instead focusing on the science and art of flavor combinations to inspire creativity in the kitchen. With its witty prose and extensive range of flavor profiles, The Flavour Thesaurus is a valuable resource for both aspiring and seasoned cooks looking to expand their culinary repertoire. This is the most worn out cookbook I have as it is one I go back to so often.

Main highlights are:

The whole book!! Anyone who loves cooking must have this on their shelf.

Roots - Tommy Banks
Winner of the Great British Menu, Banks celebrates the rich flavors and diverse textures of seasonal ingredients, with a focus on root vegetables and their versatility in cooking. The recipes range from comforting classics to innovative creations, all showcasing the beauty of using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. With stunning photography and insightful cooking tips, "Roots" inspires readers to embrace the bounties of each season and reconnect with the simplicity and wholesomeness of cooking from the root up.

Three main highlights of this captivating book:
1. Seasonal Cooking
2. Creative and Accessible Recipes
3. Farm-to-Table Philosophy

A Farm Table - Julius Roberts
With a focus on wholesome, rustic cooking, Roberts presents a collection of recipes that highlight the connection between the land and the dining table. From hearty stews to vibrant salads, each dish is a testament to Roberts' passion for farm-fresh ingredients and delicious, unpretentious food. "A Farm Table" is a charming ode to the joys of cooking with the treasures of the earth.

Three main highlights by Julius Roberts:

  1. Great explanation behind cooking techniques.

  2. genuinely easy to execute recipes.

  3. Super comforting recipes that really remind you of the English countryside.

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, A Story of Excellence
The "Restaurant Gordon Ramsay Cookbook" offers a tantalizing insight into the three michelin starred world of acclaimed chef Gordon Ramsay. From sophisticated techniques to stunning plating, the cookbook provides a glimpse into the high standards and artistry synonymous with Ramsay's Michelin-starred restaurant. With a focus on both classic and contemporary British cuisine, this cookbook is a treasure trove for aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts eager to recreate the exquisite flavors and visual delights that define the renowned Restaurant Gordon Ramsay.

Hemsley Hemsley - Good and Simple: Recipes to Eat Well and Thrive: A Cookbook - By Jasmine and Melissa Hemsley


A delightful culinary companion and refreshing take on healthy eating that invites readers to embrace a nourishing approach to home cooking. With an emphasis on natural flavors and nutrient-rich foods, the cookbook aims to simplify the complexities of healthy eating and the importance of gut health.

Here are three main highlights of this cookbook:
1. Nourishing Recipes
2. Accessible and Approachable
3. Emphasis on Sustainability

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