Couldn't do without it now. (Delia Smith's Complete Cookery Course - Delia Smith)

Member Name: Gretta

Product:	Delia Smith's Complete Cookery Course - Delia Smith
Date:	09/12/00 (38 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: She's not as annoying in print as on tv.

Disadvantages: Big and bulky, always shuts when you've got grubby hands.

My mum gave me this book last Christmas, to stop me phoning her to ask how much flour I should put in my Yorkshire pudding mix, and this really is the perfect solution

The book starts with a well laid out equipment section, which doesn't just tell you what to buy, but actually tells you WHY. Even if you don't rush out and buy everything she suggests, it helps you get the best out of what you have, as you know the potential pitfalls.

She then goes on to explain how to cook almost everything, with lots of useful recipes along the way. The difference to a normal recipe book is that she actually explains the science behind it, and has lots of helpful little tips thrown in, such as how to make roast potatoes crispy, and how to tell if eggs are stale before you poison your children. The book is actually readable as a book, not just something to turn to for inspiration. There is a clear index at the back to make it easier to search for recipes.

One drawback may be the limited number of illustrated recipes means that its not one to turn to for tantalising inspiration, but it would be impossible to illustrate them all, due to the number.

This book is like an encyclopaedia for the kitchen, and once you have it you will never need another. One word of warning though, avoid the chapter on offal, especially if you've just eaten, it really is absolutely disgusting.

Summary: