I use other cookbooks for inspiration. I must say I tend to cook from my own cookbooks for parties. ~ Ina Garten
Cookbooks for the College Graduate
A friend, whose daughter recently graduated from college, asked me to recommend some cookbooks that would be good for the beginning cook. I asked for help on Facebook; and the suggestions were really great. Thanks to everyone who took the time to respond.
The two most recommended cookbooks were:
- The Joy of Cooking and
- How to Cook Everything – by Mark Bittman
I am not familiar with either of these cookbooks so I’m not able to comment on them.
The other suggestions were:
- Betty Crocker’s Cookbook – Bridal Edition
- Betty Crocker’s Cooking Basics
- The Cake Bible – by Rose Levy Berenbaum
This is a cookbook that has recipes for every cake imaginable. I have used it so much that the binding has broken.
- Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook – I gave the latest version to my daughter when she started cooking. A good basic
- The New Basics Cookbook – by Julee Rosso and Sheila Kukins
My favorite recipe in this cookbook is Bobbie’s Chicken. So delicious.
- Barefoot Contessa How Easy is That – by Ina Garten
All of her cookbooks are terrific. Most recipes have only 5-6 ingredients.
- My Year in Meals – by Rachael Ray
I like this cookbook because it has recipes that include the fresh ingredients that are available for each month of the year. Also, this is 2 books in one. The back of the book includes My Year in Cocktails. These are recipes that her husband has perfected. Great drinks!!
- Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking – by Marcella Hazan
- Pies and Tarts (The New Version) – by Martha Stewart
A nice collection of the basics and many new favorites.
- The Good Cookie – by Tish Boyle
I can’t say enough about this cookbook. I use it all the time. The recipes are fabulous. I think everyone should have this book in their collection.
I love cookbooks as I have said many times before. They push me to try new things and introduce me to cuisines I have no knowledge of. This post was a lot of fun. I hope it inspires Ellen to enjoy cooking and baking.
