Jamie’s 30 Minute Meals
This is my favourite cookbook. One of the best cookbooks ever written and it’s by the man himself, Jamie Oliver. My copy is well-worn with use, not only by me but all the family.
Based on the TV series, Jamie cooks a full meal in under 30 minutes, and that’s a main with sides and a second course. There’s over 50 of these recipes. What I have tended to do is cook the main out of one recipe with the side from another, and the pudding from a third so you get loads of combinations giving a variety of ideas that will keep almost every family happy.
All the meals are well explained and the recipe written so that you can multi-task the meal. It’s a practical book and my favourite Jamie Oliver book (and TV series). I have to admit sometimes it takes me 40 minutes instead of 30 but to get a full meal tasting so great is well worth it. Get if from Amazon: Jamie’s 30-Minute Meals
Mary Berry Cooks The Perfect
Mary Berry has been in the cookery business for over 50 years and is probably more popular now than ever. We see her regularly on TV in programmes such as the Great British Bake-Off.
I received Cooks the Perfect as a birthday present and at first I thought it would be a book about cakes but I was pleasantly surprised to find that this book covers all cookery – soups, starters, fish, meat, pasta, vegetables, salads, puddings as well as cakes, bakes and breads. The book is easy to follow, beautifully photographed with step-by-step guides and Mary’s special tips on achieving perfection.
It’s a wonderful book for first-time cooks or experienced cooks who want to move to the next level. Over 100 recipes, all new. Get it from Amazon: Mary Berry Cooks The Perfect
Paul Hollywood’s Bread
I make bread 3 times a week. Once you’ve mastered the art of the loaf then you can never go back to supermarket bread. When I first started, my loaf had the appearance and texture of an house brick, but by following just a few tips from Paul Hollywood he transformed it. Now all I hear from the family is ‘When are you going to bake another loaf?’.
Paul Hollywood’s Bread not only covers the basics but goes on to cover flatbreads, continental breads, enriched breads and even sourdough. Baking is not difficult; just learn a few guidelines and have a little patience. You’ll be absolutely amazed with the taste.
You don’t need much to start, just a few simple, inexpensive ingredients. I reckon it’s cheaper to make a loaf than buy one. Give it a go; you’ll be glad you did. Get it from Amazon: Paul Hollywood’s Bread
