#cookbook roundup

[sfarticles]

Cookbooks make great gifts for food enthusiasts

The shopping frenzy, an anticipated, annual, pre-holidays event, has started. Perhaps for some it began after last year’s holiday season.

Cookbooks are perfect for the food enthusiasts on your gift list. Whether they enjoy baking, international cuisine, cooking with a specific ingredient, favorite appliance or healthy eating, there is a cookbook for them, children included. I am the go-to person for friends who need suggestions for the ideal cookbook to purchase.

Fans of America’s Test Kitchen hit television show will appreciate “America’s Test Kitchen 25th Anniversary Cookbook: 500 Recipes That Changed the Way America Cooks” (2024, $45). The book celebrates the show’s 25 seasons on air. Did you know it is the most watched cooking show on public television?

The editors said: “This collection of recipes highlights ATK’s most important discoveries, brilliant techniques, counterintuitive tricks, eye-opening food science, and above all, failproof deliciousness from the past 25 years.”

Each member of the show’s cast provides Q&A that will bring the reader closer to knowing about those they watch cook on the show. Fans will enjoy their commentary describing the dishes that have become personal game changers.

For example, here are a couple of Dan Souza’s five memorable scientific discoveries: “Baking soda helps ground meat remain tender; temper chocolate in the microwave for the shiniest, snappiest coating.”

ATK’s signature headnotes, “Why this Recipe Works,” shares important details about each recipe.

“The Food Substitutions Bible: 8,000 Substitutions for Ingredients, Equipment & Techniques,” 3rd edition, by David Joachim is a must in my kitchen. I assume occasionally, or more often; while cooking you have run out of an important ingredient.

Perhaps the pan the recipe calls for was borrowed by a friend. Perhaps you’re looking to experiment with a recipe handed down to you by changing the flavor or texture. What do you do? Substitute.

You might think the internet has the answer, however the author said,” It doesn’t always have the answer or accurate replacements.”

He gives the information needed to improvise with confidence.

The vast number of substitutions cover timesaving, healthy and vegan subs. The charts and measurement tables help the cook understand the nuances of various chilies, vinegars, rice, salts, oils and other ingredients, plus how to substitute one for another. Cooking and baking at high altitude, complete with volume and pan equivalents is discussed in easy-to-understand charts.

The author writes, “Some of the greatest cooking discoveries have been and continue to be made by substituting one ingredient for another, one piece of equipment for another, or one cooking technique for another.”

The visual appeal, ease of preparation, social nature and countless themes have made grazing and charcuterie boards a craze. For those on your list who enjoy entertaining, “Grazing Boards,” a deck of 50 cards, by Theo A. Michaels (2024, Ryland, Peters & Small, $24.99) makes the perfect gift.

Along with the cards is a 64-page book beginning with guidelines and tips to create a grazing board or table. How to choose the right board, planning, shopping, slicing meats; how to choose the right balance of textures, colors and flavors; how to create visual anchors starts the booklet, followed by recipes for dips, sauces and pickles, finger foods and hot foods to incorporate on the boards.

The cards have stunning photography of the board on one side with the shopping list and assembly instructions on the other side. From a “Game Night Wings ’n’ Dips tray,” “Fruits de Mer Platter,” “Build-Your-Own Taco Tuesday” to a “Kosher Charcuterie Board,” “Butter Board,” and perfect for holiday brunch, “All-Day Brunch Sheet Pan,” there’s a theme to satisfy all tastes. Maybe you’ll even be invited to your gift recipient’s party and experience their creation from the deck.

Those who enjoy Southern cooking coupled with Southern food history will welcome “When Southern Women Cook: with History, Lore, and 300 Recipes with Contributions from 70 Women Writers,” by the editors of America’s Test Kitchen, Toni Tipton-Martin and Morgan Bolling (America’s Test Kitchen, 2024, $40).

The book covers every region and flavor of the American South.

The editors said, “From Texas BBQ to Gullah Geechee rice dishes, the book tells the stories of the unnamed women firing the flames of stoves at Monticello; gallant Prohibition-era rum runners; and bootleggers like ‘Queen’ Maggie Bailey, who supported her community by selling moonshine.”

Southern cooking goes beyond fried chicken and biscuits (there are eight recipes for each in the book). The recipes pay tribute to the diverse group of women who created them and their place in the history of Southern food.

Morgan Bolling, executive editor of creative content for ATK’s Cook’s Country, said in the introduction: “The stories in this book show that food can be a lens through which to learn about our shared history, to pay homage to those who came before us, and to help build a better, tastier future.”

The recipes include classics as well more modern ones. From baking powder biscuits, cast iron baked chicken, peach cobbler to the Cuban sandwich, Po’boys, Mint Julep, Planter’s Punch and Moravian Cookies, the coverage of dishes is superb.

The editors said, “The recipes present an intricate patchwork quilt that is Southern cooking.”

Cooking is a hands-on activity children enjoy, allowing them to be creative, bond with the family and experience new flavors. The 10th anniversary edition of “Cooking Class:73 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Make (and Eat!), by Deanna F. Cook (2024, Storey Publishing, $19.99) was recently released, a perfect gift for the kids on your gift list.

The recipes were tested by kids, making sure they understood the directions. The first chapter teaches what tools to have handy, how to measure, how to safely use a paring knife plus other kitchen tools. One, two or three spoons on each recipe denotes the skill level needed to make the recipe.

For example, one spoon: “You can cook most of these recipes without needing a hot stove or using a knife.”

Kids will learn how to set a table, including creative napkin folding. The step-by-step photos with directions under each make it easy for young chefs to make the foolproof recipes. Parents will appreciate that cleanup is covered!

The chapters include: “Breakfast Café,” “Lunch Lessons,” “Snack Attack,” “Eat Your Veggies,” “My First Dinners” and “Time for Dessert.” The pull-out pages help the young chefs put the finishing touches on their creations with place cards, mealtime conversation-starter games, recipe cards, and stickers for labeling their homemade food…perfect for gift giving.

Titles of books catch my attention, as they’re intended to. “One Bake, Two Ways: Fifty bakes with an All-Plant Option Every Time,” by Ruby Bhogal (2024, Interlink Publishing, $35) is a title that piqued my curiosity.

This one is the perfect gift for the bakers on the gift list. Bhogal, who has a degree in architecture, began baking as a hobby but then competed as a finalist on “The Great British Baking Show.” The title features recipes, first in its conventional form, and then with a plant-based alternative.

“This isn’t a book where the vegan recipes are shoved at the back or added last minute for tokenism,” she said. “This is a book where both sides of the diet are celebrated, and not one where anyone misses out. Everyone gets cake!”

The baker you gift this book to will find creative approaches to mouth-watering delights with two approaches. With recipes like these, Coconut Cake with Whipped Ricotta and Mango Cream, Fruited Focaccia with Plums, Cherries and Lemon Thyme, Dark Chocolate Velvet Tart with Dulce de Leche, and Strawberries and Macadamia Nuts; are you tempted to buy a copy for the baker in you?

Halloumi burgers with smashed avocado and tomato relish, Chinese sweet corn soup with egg ribbons or whipped tahini with a mountain of panko on asparagus, the recipes in “Delicious Tonight: Foolproof Recipes for 150+ Easy Dinners,” by Nagi Maehashi, a New York Times best-selling author (2024, Countryman Press, $35), are creative, unfussy, international and clever, and anything but ordinary.

The book will become the recipients cooking school, with a QR code for each recipe that leads to a how-to video. The videos, stunning and sumptuous photos, paired with the organization of each recipe makes this a must-have, stand-out cookbook.

The author writes: “I know you know how to read a recipe! But here’s a little map featuring some pointers on how to follow the recipes in this cookbook, highlighting the different elements on the page.”

She explains each element: “Introduction: This is the part where I tell you why your life is not complete until you’ve made this!; Notes: Superscript numbers (footnotes) in the recipe direct you to the notes; Glossary: At the back of the book there is a glossary with information on ingredients that might not be familiar to you, or where I have something extra to say. See glossary if text is marked with an asterisk; QR code leading to the video.”

If you are familiar with the author’s website RecipeTinEats.com that has half a billion views annually, you won’t be surprised at the quality of the book and recipes within.

“Being a homebound tester and writer of everyday recipes has brought me into the public eye at a level that I just never imagined nor ever sought,” Maehashi said. “Cooking, eating, photographing, and sharing recipes of damn tasty food with people around the world, with Dozer (her dog) by my side, is what makes me happy. Full stop, end of story.”

Since we are finally getting some winter weather, at least we are in the Northeast, I want to include “A Cookbook for Winter: More than 95 Nurturing & Comforting Recipes for the Colder Months,” by Louise Pickford, (2024, Ryland Peters & Small, $30) in this cookbook roundup.

I’ll be featuring this title in a future column, but for now I thought you’d want to consider this book for those on your list (or you) who live where the mercury dips on the thermometer. They’ll enjoy the hearty dishes and embrace the colder months while gathering around the table for shared moments of joy, warmth and camaraderie.

Now, happy book shopping and my best wishes for joyous holidays.

Stephen Fries is professor emeritus and former coordinator of the Hospitality Management Programs at Gateway Community College in New Haven, Conn. He has been a food and culinary travel columnist for the past 17 years and is co-founder of and host of “Worth Tasting,” a culinary walking tour of downtown New Haven, and three-day culinary adventures around the U.S. He is a board member of the International Association of Culinary Professionals. Email him at Stephen@stephenfries.com. For more, go to stephenfries.com.

[uchidachi]

2024 Writing Round-Up

I was tagged by @librivore42! tyyyy!!!

words posted: 33,543 💚 (although about 2k of those were previously posted on tumblr, I'm still counting them!)

additional words written: A LOT, but they're broken up over so many documents I couldn't count them. there's 5,146 in the Veilguard fics I currently have open and writing in... I have a WIP problem.

fandoms: All Dragon Age all the time. (3 Origins/Awakening, 1 for DAII, 8 for Inquisition, and 2 for TN/Veilguard)

highest kudos: A Voice on the Line, with 59. the people crave Dorian/Fenris

highest hit one-shot: Ser Possessed-a-lot's Big Day, with 294. I don't blame them I'd want to see what I was on when I wrote that, too 😅

new things I tried: I wrote Awakening fic, finally! and writing from a first-person-plural POV as possessed!Ser Pounce. But the big new thing was writing all those recipe fics! I have a whole series now!!

fic I spent the most time on: The Poirier Family Cookbook, most assuredly! not only is it the longest thing I wrote, but I had all the time developing and testing (and photographing!) the recipes!!

fic I spent the least time on: This year I think it was the Ser Possessed-a-lot fic! I wrote and posted that in a haze in like half a day... But overall it was A (Literally) Hot Kiss, which was Alistair/Amell flash fiction that I posted this year, but wrote ages ago.

favourite thing I wrote: You're really going to make me choose between my children??? I had the most fun writing The Alamarri Falcon, and just diving headfirst into writing film noir banter. I also created the Lucanis/Neve tag with that fic, which I'm very proud of 😊

favourite thing(s) I read: OMG do I need to choose? I've read soooo much good fic this year!! FIC REC ROUNDUP TIME

I'd be remiss if I didn't first shoutout the slowburn Cassarric epic A Marriage of Inconvenience. Ao3 claims that I have visited it 195 times

More Cassarric with Nobody's Business!!

Speaking of fics I visit constantly, @klickitats updated Love Song for the Admiral!!!! I am still processing the final chapter please go read this it's my favorite fic

Did You Hide the Moon Again? is Audacity/Merrill/Solas and was written for me for the Black Emporium exchange also please go read that

Rooks!!!!!!!! @swordbisexual has Vissenta Hawke-as-Rook here, @rowanisawriter has an amazing grey warden Fahad here, @shouldaspunastory has Tobias Mercar, @fanfoolishness' Liesl Ingellvar here, I'm obsessed with @hyperions-light's Lethanavir de Riva already, and they're obsessed with Viago... there's this insanely hot Lucanis/Neve/Rook series (idk if the author is on tumblr)

Oh hey making this list has reminded me that I really need to read @amarmeme's Illario/Rook fic, so that's what I'm doing today...

Also shoutout to literally every Emmrich/Bellara fic I've read so far, I'm obsessed actuallly

Also the entire collections for the 2024 DA Create-A-Thon and Black Emporium Exchange

writing goals for 2025: Finish those two dozen Veilguard WIPs, I guess... Maybe just one of them to start???

new works: I swear I'm gonna post a Rook/Taash fic before the end of the year I SWEAR it... I just need to buckle down and write...

tagging: everyone I already tagged? idk, I got really into going through my Ao3 history to answer that favorite reads, so I'm probably gonna re-read my gift fics from this year, good times...

[positivexcellence]

genpadalecki: when the holidaze hit, nothing beats a warm ’n cozy comfort meal —esp when it involves famed Italian cookbook author marcella hazan’s classic bolognese with sustainable @forcesofnature meat + veggies from the garden. 

(*non-meat eaters may opt for a @beyondmeat crumble or head to our stories for all-veggie alternative) **another pro/cheat tip from @genpadalecki: cooking the sauce for 2 hrs vs 4 hours came out just fine! ⏲️

nowadays, we recognize that it’s important to be mindful of where & how we source our food. force of nature’s meats are procured through regenerative agriculture, which creates nutrient-rich, tasty food that’s free of synthetics, chemicals, hormones or antibiotics. by supporting sustainable, eco-friendly processes, we can all take part in healing ecosystems & boosting land resilience, making our communities – and the planet itself – healthier. 💪🌎

p.s. keep an eye on our stories for a roundup of our fav cookbooks to help inspire your own holiday meals. 📖🥘👀🎄

marcella hazan’s classic bolognese:  1 tbs oil 3 tbs butter + 1 tbs for tossing the pasta ½ c  chopped onion ⅔ c chopped celery ⅔ c chopped carrot ¾ lbs  ground beef  Salt Black pepper 1 c whole milk ⅛ tsp nutmeg 1 c dry white wine 1½ c canned tomatoes, cut up, with their juice 1¼ to 1½ pounds pasta Freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese at the table

Directions: 1. Put oil, butter + onion in the pot and turn the heat to medium. Cook and stir the onion until it’s translucent, then add the celery and carrot. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring to coat them well. 2. Add ground beef, a large pinch of salt & pepper. Crumble the meat with a fork, stir well and cook until the beef has lost its raw, red color. 3. Add milk & let it simmer, stirring frequently, until it has bubbled away completely. Add nutmeg. 4. Add wine, simmer until it has evaporated, then add tomatoes & stir to coat all ingredients. Simmer, uncovered, for 3 hours or more, stirring from time to time. To keep it from sticking, add ½ cup of water whenever necessary. Stir to mix the fat into the sauce, taste and correct for salt. 5. Toss with cooked drained pasta, adding the tbs of butter, & serve with freshly grated parmesan.

[crackinglamb]

hi on one of ur reblogs u said u use a private server on discord and i wanted to ask how u organize it?? i have my own as well but i think i have no idea how to really use it to take full advantage :/ any tips?

Sure! Short answer: I make a new channel for each subject I want to keep organized.

Okay, some more detail. You start off with general channel when you make a server, so that's where I put things like my daughter's school schedule and my word totals when I'm keeping track for year end roundups. I have a few recipes in there too, so I can see them wherever I am and don't have to carry a cookbook with me (long distance relationships have interesting logistics, lol). But I also have channels for NaNo, links to interesting stuff or playlists, pics, fic ideas, separate ones for headcannons and snippets (this is where notes to myself go). My active OC's all have their own channel too, where I can keep anything referring to them in one place. Ideas, screenshots, general stats, any fanart I might receive, that sort of thing. I even have one for jotting down gift ideas for friends and family so I don't have to remember what people ask for.

Basically, I think of each channel as like a file folder. Everything related to the name of the 'folder' gets put there. I generally pin the first thing in the channel so I can get to the top really quick instead of having to scroll through it. I've had my private server for years now, so some of the channels are pretty full. I'll pin the items that I know I'll be referring to later too (for instance, the names of the people in the DAFF crew list for tagging in reblogs). I keep the channel names simple so I don't get confused by my own organizing system. I've never bothered to break up the channels by subcategory like you see in big servers, since I'm the only one using them.

Now, all this said, I'm primarily a desktop user. I honestly don't know how hard it is to do all this on mobile, since I rarely actually use it on my phone unless I'm sending myself a note or am in a voice chat. But I hope this helps, or at least gives you some ideas of where to start. Thanks for the ask. Happy organizing!

[breelandwalker]

I literally keep a file of notecards with recipes I've gotten from family or cookbooks or online, with notes about the tweaks I've made. (I noted some of these in my Autumn Recipe Roundup series too.) It's really been invaluable for keeping track of things over time, plus it's fun to see the little notes in my and my parents' handwriting.

You should be starting a recipe book. I don't give a shit if you're only 20-years-old. The modern web is rotting away bit by bit before our very eyes. You have no idea when that indie mom blog is going down or when Pinterest will remove that recipe. Copy it down in a notebook, physically or digitally. Save it somewhere only you can remove it. Trust me, looking for a recipe only to find out it's been wiped off the internet is so fucking sad. I've learned my lesson one too many times.

[ketolifestyleus]

What are good recipe books for keto?

If you're exploring the world of keto cooking, a good recipe book can become your best friend in the kitchen. From beginner-friendly guides to gourmet keto ideas, there's something for everyone. Here's a roundup of some excellent keto recipe books to consider:

Top Keto Recipe Books

"The Easy 5-Ingredient Ketogenic Diet Cookbook" by Jen Fisch

Perfect for beginners or those with a busy lifestyle, this book simplifies keto meals by focusing on recipes with just five ingredients. It's loaded with quick, simple, and satisfying dishes, making it ideal if you're short on time or new to cooking.

"Keto Made Easy" by Megha Barot and Matt Gaedke

This guide offers comfort food classics turned keto-friendly, ensuring the meals are easy to prepare. With practical tips and straightforward instructions, it's great for families or anyone looking for accessible, tasty recipes.

"The Complete Ketogenic Diet for Beginners" by Amy Ramos

Designed for keto newcomers, this book includes a 14-day meal plan and shopping lists to kickstart your keto lifestyle. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for structure and a step-by-step approach to getting started.

"Keto Comfort Foods" by Maria Emmerich

This book offers recipes like cheeseburger soup and low-carb cinnamon rolls for those wanting indulgent yet keto-friendly dishes. It's perfect for anyone craving comfort foods while sticking to their diet.

"Ketotarian" by Dr. Will Cole

Ideal for plant-based eaters, this book focuses on vegetarian and pescatarian versions of keto. It features a variety of clean, nutrient-dense recipes and is great for those seeking a healthy twist on the ketogenic lifestyle.

"Simply Keto" by Suzanne Ryan

This book goes beyond recipes to include personal stories and tips for succeeding on a ketogenic diet. It's a wonderful pick if you're looking for inspiration alongside simple, home-cooked meals.

"Keto Meal Prep" by FlavCity's Bobby & Dessi Parrish

If you're into meal prepping, this cookbook is all about efficiency. It provides easy-to-follow recipes and meal prep strategies to save time while eating keto.

How to Choose the Right Keto Recipe Book

When selecting a recipe book, consider these factors to ensure it fits your lifestyle and needs:

Skill Level: Look for books with simple recipes and basic instructions if you're a beginner. More experienced cooks might enjoy books with gourmet or adventurous recipes.

Dietary Preferences: Some books, like dairy-free or vegetarian keto, cater to specific needs. Ensure the book aligns with your dietary restrictions or preferences.

Meal Prep Needs: Busy individuals may benefit from books focused on quick meals or meal prep strategies.

Nutritional Information: Look for books that provide clear macronutrient breakdowns to help you track your goals.

A Personalized Alternative to Recipe Books

While traditional cookbooks are fantastic, they may not fully address your unique dietary needs or preferences. That's where the Custom Keto Diet Plan stands out. Instead of flipping through pages to find a recipe that works for you, this personalized, 8-week meal plan is tailored to your body type, goals, and taste preferences. You'll receive easy-to-make recipes, shopping lists, and macronutrient guidance, all designed to make keto convenient and sustainable.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking to get started with keto or elevate your culinary game, there's a recipe book out there to fit your needs. The Custom Keto Diet Plan is a fantastic alternative if you want to save time and get a structured, personalized plan without the guesswork. Explore tailored recipes, reach your health goals, and craft a keto lifestyle that works for you!

[thewineglassslipper]

The Glass Slipper to Make Television Debut on ABC7 LA in Mother’s Day Gift Guide

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news—The Glass Slipper is about to make its TV debut on ABC7 Los Angeles next Friday, May 9th, as part of Nekia Nichelle’s curated Mother’s Day Gift Guide! 🎉

This moment is a huge milestone for our small, independent business, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the recognition. Nekia Nichelle, an award-winning TV personality and lifestyle expert, has handpicked The Glass Slipper for her roundup of thoughtful gifts that offer moms the pampering and elegance they deserve.

Why The Glass Slipper?

If you haven’t seen it yet, The Glass Slipper is the wine accessory you never knew you needed. Designed to keep stemmed wine glasses stable on uneven surfaces, it’s a game-changer for:

Outdoor brunches

Beach picnics

Poolside lounging

Backyard celebrations

And now, it’s catching the attention of TV audiences, lifestyle influencers, and wine lovers across the country.

Buzzing on Social Media and Podcasts 📱🎙️

The excitement doesn’t stop with TV! The Glass Slipper has been featured by top lifestyle influencers like @thebrookeblend and wine experts such as @thewannabesommelier. Even celebrity cookbook author Maria Liberati gave us a shoutout on The Maria Liberati Show podcast for her Mother’s Day guide.

Check out the podcast episode here: Apple Podcasts And Maria’s Instagram mention: @marialiberati on IG

Designed for Sipping in Style

Whether your mom prefers a glass of rosé in the garden or a mimosa on the go, The Glass Slipper adds elegance and function to her favorite moments. With its sleek design and patented spill-stopping stability, it’s quickly becoming a go-to gift under $25.

Tune In and Celebrate With Us! 📺

Mark your calendars for Friday, May 9 and catch us on ABC7 Los Angeles with Nekia Nichelle! And while you're at it, grab a Glass Slipper for yourself or Mom.

🛍️ Shop The Glass Slipper now

Cheers to the moms who pour their hearts into everything they do! 🥂💕

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Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or Pinterest for more updates and inspiration.

[ianmacallen]

I wrote a roundup of the 2024 Italian, Italian American, and Italian adjacent cookbooks.

[reitmonero]

What Are the Best Bread Baking Cookbooks for Beginners?

If you’re eager to start your journey into the world of bread baking, finding the right cookbook can make all the difference. A well-chosen book not only provides you with reliable recipes but also equips you with the knowledge and techniques you need to succeed. Here’s a roundup of some of the best bread baking cookbooks for beginners that will help you rise to the occasion! 1. “Bread Baking…

[bargainsleuthbooks]

Book Reviews: Reagan: His Life and Legend; Fix-It-And-Forget-It Budget Meals; Friends and the Golden Age of Sitcom; Hemingway's Passions: His Women, His Wars, and His Writing #NetGalley #Edelweiss #ARCReviews #NewBooks #BookReviews

Time for another round-up of #BookReviews! A new book taking a look at Friends and the television landscape in the 1990s, a cookbook with budget meals, a book about #Hemingway and the women in his life, and a new biography on #RonaldReagan

I’m cruising along and getting through all my Advanced Reader’s Copies from NetGalley. In order to keep up with blogging about them all, I’ve decided to do more roundups like this. These books have either recently been published or will be published in the near future. Most books can be found at the affiliate links below or try your local library when they are released! (Amazon US) (Amazon CA)…

[sfarticles]

Browsing stores for cookbooks is time well spent Foodies will love the gift of a cookbook, and it won't be hard on your wallet.

Check out my latest column for gifts those who enjoy food and like to cook

I hope you had a joyous Thanksgiving. For me it was a dual celebration, celebrating my parents’ 68th anniversary, as well. They are snowbirds, so it is a great opportunity to enjoy some warm weather and explore Florida’s food scene while in the Sunshine State. Visiting local bookstores to check out their cookbook shelves, especially those books by local authors and restaurateurs, has been time well spent. One thing I learned years ago, don’t take mom along when I am scouting out cookbooks, since mother is not like son when it comes to cookbooks and cooking. To mom’s credit, she still saves the food section from her local newspaper, so upon my arrival, I have plenty of columns upon which I need to catch-up. Dad, who is 91, on the other hand, enjoys cooking, however, he won’t follow a cookbook recipe, so cookbooks are out for him. I am his “go-to” when it comes to recipes.

With the eight days of Hannukah beginning the evening of Thursday, December 7, and Christmas about three weeks away, the race is on to find that desirous, perfect gift. I am asked by many people, “what cookbook do you recommend for my foodie friends and relatives?” It isn’t easy to pick just a few suggestions. My list is quite extensive; cookbook collecting for me is addictive — I read cookbooks the way one would read a novel. I am sure I am not alone; some people on your gift list — perhaps you, too — are like this. Some of these will fit the bill for a welcome addition to one’s cookbook shelf. And a cookbook gift won’t be hard on your wallet.

For Pennsylvanians, or those that wish to explore the culinary scene in the Keystone State, “Pennsylvania Good Eats: Exploring the State’s Favorite, Unique, Historic, and Delicious Foods,” by Brian Yarvin (2021, Globe Pequot, $21.95)  gives the recipient the “tip of the iceberg” of Pennsylvania’s eclectic and vast food culture. The author gives the perfect starting point for exploration. Those who crave food prepared by older relatives now long gone, there is a place out there preparing those dishes, perhaps using techniques now not common. He writes,  “Pennsylvania, is so filled with nooks and crannies that any food, no matter how archaic or obscure, can find an out-of-the-way place to thrive. Anytime you hear somebody say, ‘Nobody cooks that anymore!’ you can be sure that somebody in the Keystone State is preparing it.” He mentions scrapple, buckwheat cakes, smoked sausage, and fried noodles.  His exploration via car, foot and train made him realize there is no “best.” From John’s Roast Pork Shop (Philadelphia), Appel Valley Butcher Shop (Lancaster), Caputo Brothers Creamery (Spring Grove), Patterson Maple Farms (Westfield) to Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium (Orrtanna), you’ll visit food landmarks, where some of your food memories can be rekindled again.

Those interested in food and history will welcome “The Gilded Age Cookbook: Recipes and Stories From America’s Golden Era,” by Becky Libourel Diamond (2023, Globe Pequot, $34.95).  This excerpt was contributed by food historian and culinary stylist, Dan Macey: “Theatrics were an integral part of fine dining. Lavish centerpieces, ranging from floral arrangements to ornate sugar molds and plaster-cast animals, were front and center on the banquet table. This same pageantry was often applied to the centerpiece of the meal—the main meat course.” It gives a glimpse of that “perfect” table that impressed guests in the day and still do.  I enjoyed the tasteful combination of recipes that are approachable, the artistry and history. The recipient of the book will get a sneak peek of what the Gilded Age looked and tasted like through the beautiful pictures, historic menus, and recipes. My friend, Diane Jacob, the author of “Will Write for Food,” gives the book her thumbs up by saying, “A beautifully designed and photographed cookbook, filled with intriguing stories. The parties and events may have been excessive, but the classic recipes here look simple and doable to make. Bring back a bit of the past and celebrate it today with a copy of “The Gilded Age Cookbook.”

Those on your list who enjoy entertaining, perhaps it is you, a copy of “Butter Boards: 50+ Inventive Spreads for Entertaining,” by Alejandra Diaz-Imlah and Jamison Diaz-Imlah (2023, Cider Mill Press, $27.99) is a must. The “Board craze” is amazing. A plethora of books, websites, and videos, teaching the art of creating food boards (charcuterie, cheese, dessert) are available. There’s even a company that ships beautifully prepared gift boards.  Boards make entertaining easy, whether it be for a formal dinner, brunch or a casual afternoon tea. A new concept is butter boards. You might be thinking, what is this? It’s quite simple…softened butter is spread on a board and paired with ingredients, savory or sweet or both. Then, take a piece of bread, a cracker, vegetable or fruit and swipe some delectable butter spread on it. I suggest you use good quality butter for the best flavor. The author describes cultured butter, Irish and European butter as well as plant-based butter, the latter welcomed by vegans and those who don’t eat dairy products. Savory recipes include: bacon butter with bacon and maple biscuits; Christmas butter with radishes and cranberries; pesto butter with rosemary focaccia; dill, caper and cream cheese butter with lox and bagels. For those with a sweet tooth: cinnamon and honey butter with butter rolls and candied almonds; lemon and ginger butter with strawberry rhubarb jam; Spanish chocolate butter with churros.

The use of mason jars has gone beyond making and storing preserves. “Mason Jar Cocktails,” by Shane Carley (2022, Cider Mill Press, $19.95) is perfect for those on your list who would like - as the book jacket says, “to combine the best aspects of your favorite creative cocktails with the rustic simplicity of the Mason jar; you’ll be sipping at that martini with country-living style.” Included are cocktails based on a variety of liquors as well as creative mocktails such as Mason Jar Fuzzless Navel and a virgin mudslide.  

For the bakers or want-to-be bakers on your list, “I’ll Bring the Cake: Recipes for Every Season and Every Occasion,” by Mandy Merriman (2023, Harvest/HarperCollins, $40) will be a welcome addition to their baking cookbooks, especially those who enjoy or want to learn the art of decorating. The beautiful cakes that are truly works of art, begin with a boxed mix and then several ingredients to the mix. She said, “there’s a special way to make a cake mix taste like it’s from scratch, and my recipes are the best way to make that possible.” What is handy about her recipes is that they can be converted to make cupcakes, Bundt cakes, 9 x 13 inch cakes, etc. The section on buttercream essentials, baking tips and troubleshooting, assembling, and frosting are accompanied by step-by-step photos. One tip that she shares (and I agree with) is to avoid substitutions, with the exception of those avoiding ingredients for allergies. She writes, “I don’t recommend changing a recipe the first time you make it. If you change an ingredient,  know that you may end up with a different result.” The flavor combinations are mouth-watering: Cannoli Cake with Cinnamon Mascarpone Buttercream and Ricotta Filling; Creme Brulee Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream and Custard Filling; Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake with Grapefruit Poppy Seed Buttercream and Grapefruit Curd; Gingerbread Cake with White Chocolate and Ginger Buttercream; Eggnog Latte Cake. The stunning photos of every cake will entice the recipient want to make them all! 

If you’ve noticed, small plates and tapas are appearing on menus like never before. For many people, this is the preferred way to eat, grazing on a few small plates to experience flavors of different food. Entertaining this way at home, rather than preparing an elaborate meal is the trend. “The Complete Small Plates Cookbook: 300+ Shareable Tapas, Meze, Bar Snacks, Dumplings, Salads, and More,” by the editors of America’s Test Kitchen (2023, $34.99) explains how to put it all together…think about what each dish “brings to the table” (no pun intended), flavor, texture, and color. The recipes are categorized into nibbles, little bites, and heartier bites. The editors give pointers on how to create a small plates menu by asking…What’s the occasion? How much to serve? How much time do you have? The editors share strategies to use when choosing what small plates to prepare. Sample menus, some themed, along with recipes, are provided to make the decision easy. For example:  Indian Tea Party (Orange-cardamom spiced nuts; Pakoras with cilantro-mint chutney; Naan with ricotta, sundried tomatoes, and olive tapenade; Gajarachi Koshimbir; pine nut macaroons; Masaka chai). Maybe the recipient will invite you to enjoy the small plates prepared from this gift!

A recent study has shown that Chinese food is the most Googled cuisine in the United States The research, conducted by foodfirefriends.com, analyzed Google search data. Chinese food is Americans’ most-liked food. The ingredients used in preparing Chinese food are now available in many supermarkets due to the popularity of the cuisine, and the number of folks preparing it at home. To assist in this endeavor, Kevin Pang and Jeffrey Pang, the father-son hosts of the video series “Hunger Pangs,” teamed up with America’s Test Kitchen and published “A Very Chinese Cookbook: 100 Recipes from China & Not China (But Still Really Chinese),” (2023, America’s Test Kitchen, $35). General Tso’s Chicken and dumplings to not so well-known dishes, this gift is perfect for people who love Chinese cuisine and would like to prepare it at home. The tips, techniques and step-by-step instructions and illustrations along with the authors’ stories, hosting a Chinese New Year party just might be on the horizon.      

With New Year’s Eve around the corner, “Friday Night Cocktails: 52 Drinks to Welcome Your Weekend,” by A.J. Dean (2023, Collective Book Studio, $19.95) is perfect for those cocktail afficionados on your list, especially if they are staying at home to celebrate and wish to experiment with new cocktail ideas. The fifty-two recipes are a collection of classic, contemporary and unique drinks. They are divided by season and month, so the libation can be matched with the weather and holidays. This time of year, the Pumpkin Pie Cocktail, Cranberry Mule or Apple Jack Sour would be appropriate to celebrate the season. The Summer Shandy would be a good choice for the warmer weather. The author writes,“ with a little understanding of the roles of the main components—alcohol, water, sugar, bitters—you can begin to experiment on your own. For example, the French 75 cocktail (gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, sparkling wine); Why not try grapefruit juice in place of the lemon? Or make the same recipe but use different gins?” This joyous holiday season, try something new, but don’t forget the tried-and-true. 

Let the shopping begin!

Stephen Fries, is Professor Emeritus and former coordinator of the Hospitality Management Programs at Gateway Community College, in New Haven, CT. He has been a food and culinary travel columnist for the past 15 years and is co-founder of and host of “Worth Tasting,” a culinary walking tour of downtown New Haven, CT. He is a board member of the International Association of Culinary Professionals. Stephen@stephenfries.com For more, go to stephenfries.com

[stephenfries]

These cookbooks offer up plenty of new and interesting flavors

Check out my food column in today’s New Haven Register

https://sfarticles.tumblr.com/post/189611493736/these-cookbooks-offer-up-plenty-of-new-and

To see my food and travel column archives, please go to

https://sfarticles.tumblr.com/archive

Photo courtesy of “Holiday Jubilee” by Charles Phoenix (Prospect Park Books)

[alisonblackmanadvicesisters]

Book Review Roundup. Get These Books--They're KEEPERS!

Book Review Roundup. Get These Books–They’re KEEPERS!

if you’re using a Kindle or other E-reader. The six books in this Advice Sisters Spring Book Review Roundup are “keepers!”   Diamond District Intrigue:   Who knew there was such intrigue brewing behind the glittering displays? A Murder Is Forever (The Diamond District Mystery Series) by Rob Bates (Camel Press October 2020) is a fast-paced novel about Max Rosen and his divorced and unemployed…

[breelandwalker]

Is the tag 'autumn recipe roundup' ? And soups/stews, breads, pies and the like. My goal is to bake something each day of Mabon, and then on the last night have a 'feast' prepared for my mom and I and maybe a few friends(because Mabon is 3 days, right?) and I want to make something hearty the day before Samhain that I can eat intermittently throughout the day and night because I really want to do a bunch of rituals

Yup, that’s the tag! I’m still putting the queue together, so I think I’d better just give you some recommendations of cookbooks from my research, since you’ve got a plan in mind.

Celtic Folklore Cooking (Asala)

A Kitchen WItch’s Cookbook (Telesco)

A Witch’s Brew (Telesco)

Kitchen WItch’s Guide to Brews and Potions (Telesco)

The Kitchen Witch (Soraya)

Witch in the Kitchen (Johnson)

The Colonial Williamsburg Tavern Cookbook (Gonzalez)

Favorite Meals from Williamsburg (Turgeon)

Holiday Fare: Favorite Williamsburg Meals (Gonzalez)

The Very Best of Irish Traditional Cooking (Lennon and Campbell)

An Irish Country Cookbook (Taylor)

Celtic Folklore Cooking is the one I’d recommend most for holiday meals. It was my go-to for a number of years. Witch in the Kitchen is fantastic if you’re looking for vegetarian or vegan dishes. The Lennon and Campbell Irish cookbook is fantastic too. The Williamsburg books are on the old-fashioned side, so some substitutions may need to be made.

All of these books are available online. Keep checking back here too, as I’ll start posting my favorites soon.

Happy Cooking!

[thewineglassslipper]

The Glass Slipper Is Stepping Into the Spotlight This Season!

We’re beyond excited to announce that The Glass Slipper is gearing up for an amazing wave of publicity just in time for Mother’s Day and summer entertaining season! 🥂

Here’s where you’ll be seeing us:

📺 Television: Mark your calendars! 📅 The Glass Slipper will be making its television debut on ABC 7 Los Angeles on May 9th as part of a curated Mother’s Day Gift Guide, presented by Just N Life's fabulous Editor-in-Chief, Nekia Nichelle. Known for her impeccable style and sharp eye for must-have trends, Nekia’s guide is the ultimate showcase for standout gifts—and we’re thrilled to be one of her hand-selected favorites! 💖 Curious for a sneak peek? Check out the full blog!

🎙️ Podcast: We’re also thrilled to be highlighted on The Maria Liberati Show—hosted by celebrity cookbook author and recognized as a Top 60 Podcast of 2025. Maria Liberati will spotlight The Glass Slipper as a clever and elegant wine accessory—ideal for spring picnics, backyard gatherings, and beach escapes. If you love wine or cocktails (or know someone who does), you’ll want to tune in! She's already given us some love on Instagram—check it out here!

📰 Print & Digital Media: But that’s not all! The Glass Slipper will also be featured across several leading lifestyle outlets this season. We’re thrilled to be included in Joy Filled Eats’ Unique Mother’s Day Gifts guide—naturally, you’ll find us under “Moms Who Love Wine & Cocktails!” 🍷🍸✨ You can check out their fabulous roundup here.

Plus, Posh Lifestyle & Beauty has refeatured The Glass Slipper following our Valentine’s Day spotlight—this time, in their curated Mother’s Day Gift Guide. See the full feature here!

Why All the Buzz? With summer on the horizon and outdoor entertaining in full swing, The Glass Slipper is quickly becoming a must-have for wine lovers everywhere. It keeps your glass steady on grass, sand, patios, and other tricky surfaces—perfect for Mother's Day brunches, summer picnics, beach days, and backyard barbecues. Plus, it adds a touch of colorful fun to any outdoor setting.

And if you’re feeling lucky, don’t miss our ongoing Giveaway! 🎁 We're currently partnering with lifestyle blogger @xocarlarenee from Posh Beauty Blog to give you a chance to win your very own set of The Glass Slipper—just in time for Mother's Day! Entering is easy, and it could be the perfect surprise for yourself or the wine lover in your life. Check out all the details and how to enter here! ✨ 

We’re incredibly grateful for the growing excitement around The Glass Slipper and can't wait to share more updates with you soon. Stay tuned—and thank you for being part of this journey with us! 💖 

Here’s to Moms and all they do! 🌸🥂

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Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or Pinterest for more updates and inspiration.

[allwaswell16]

All the One Direction fics I read and enjoyed in March 2023. You can listen to my podcast to hear me talk about each of these fics as well as an overview of what was posted on ao3 including the fics on this month’s fic roundup which you can find here! Please let the writers know if you liked the fics by leaving kudos and comments! Happy reading!

Fanfictional Podcast #48 |  ko-fi | fic recs

—Louis/Harry—

✿ A Bright and Blazing Flame  by green_feelings / @greenfeelings

(E, 23k, a/b/o, part 4 of series) Bonded, engaged, and moved in together — there’s nothing to daunt Louis and Harry’s happiness. Until the past catches up to them and everything comes crashing down when they least expect it.

✿ Keep Me Closer by zanni_scaramouche / @zanniscaramouche

(T, 18k, a/b/o) Louis expects Harry to react poorly, maybe even file a formal complaint and that’s gonna suck ass but Louis won’t say shit cause he knows he deserves it, so he prepares an apology before Harry’s even turned around. What he doesn’t expect is Harry to fucking drop.

✿ In the Strangest of Ways by SunTomato / @sun-tomato

(NR, 17k, ghost au) when the haunting sounds of a melancholy piano piece accompanied by the vague shadow of a beautiful male figure appear, Louis is determined to find out who this beautiful man was and what happened to him…

✿ anything you want until the morning by honey_beeing

(M, 12k, strangers to lovers) A Late Night Talking AU where Harry and Louis find each other on the way to work every night and then learn to not let go of each other ever again.

✿ Wed’n Walk (Or, We Went to Amsterdam Together) by @hellolovers13

(E, 11k, fake relationship) When Harry had first started planning his honeymoon to Amsterdam, he had not envisioned ending up there with his best friend. Or getting fake-married to him for 24 hours.

✿ Station 28 by @justahappycloud

(G, 10k, strangers to lovers) Darling, you are my favourite accident by far.

✿ Awaken As Mine by thinlines / @thinlinez

(E, 9k, a/b/o) Omega Harry was sure he had found his alpha, but how to get reading crazed, bookworm Louis to look twice at him was a mystery for the ages.

✿ Grow as We Go by @larryatendoftheday

(T, 7k, breakup) a fic about growing up and choosing each other.

✿ Catastrophe (Or Not) by grapenight / @louiswolves

(G, 5k, pet fic) Harry's a crazy cat person and Louis is the vet he keeps bringing his cats to with minor concerns like "she's been acting weird lately" and "he didn't poop today so I'm worried" but it's really just excuses to keep seeing Louis everyday

✿ Soft Wings by @kingsofeverything

(G, 4k, tattoo au) Harry is a Dolly Parton fan who wants to get a tattoo in tribute to her. Louis is the tattoo artist.

✿ Cookbooks and Toothpicks and One Lizard by LadyLondonderry / @londonfoginacup

(G, 3k, witch Harry) If there is one thing that Harry hates about Halloween, it’s what a spectacle everyone suddenly makes around him.

✿ when we're finished saying nothing by @disgruntledkittenface

(E, 3k, girl direction) An alpha/alpha AU inspired by Written All Over Your Face.

✿ I Hope You Choke (on those words) by Imogenlee / @imogenleefic

(E, 3k, musician Louis) Harry Styles had been head of security for concert venues for over eight years.Never in his career had he seen a musician as reckless when it came to personal safety as Louis Tomlinson.

✿ Never Seen A Boy Like YOU Before by @jaerie

(E, 3k, trans Louis) Of all the housemates out on the ranch Louis had had over the years, none of them could even come close to Harry. 

✿ Snow One Like You by cherrylarry / @beelou

(G, 3k, girl direction) The strangers to lovers stuck on a ski lift au

✿ Lapful Of Lou by hazzahtomlinson / @itsnotreal

(M, 2k, friends to lovers) they are both idiots and it takes a drunk Harry (with no brain to mouth filter) to get things going.

✿ Oblivious by grapenight / @louiswolves

(G, 2k, uni au) Louis and Harry are roommates, and Louis is instantly attracted to Harry.

—Rare Pairs—

✿ neither wanting more, neither asking why (series) by @justanothershadeofblue

(E, 40k, OT5) If Louis is the origin, Zayn the expansion, Liam the complication, Niall the solution, then Harry - Harry's the completion.

✿ The Hour of Us by sitandadmire / @niallziam

(M, 5k, Harry/Louis/Niall) the modern witches AU where Niall collects spell books, Harry is fascinated by plants, and Louis is ready to protect them at all costs.

✿ find our place by @nouies

(NR, 3k, Zayn/Louis) “Fuck!” Louis says as he hangs up the phone and turns it off. He hopes the call didn’t connect, otherwise he would have to change his number. Again.