Auckland Council Libraries: Cook the books

Cook the books

Hello – my name is Anne and I am a reformed recipe book collector. If one of the things you want to try this year is to attempt a new recipe every week (like me) here are some of my favourite go-to foodie books to help you out.

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At my table

Chelsea Winter

Book

Chelsea’s recipes just seem to suit me and my tastes. She is the one chef I will always allow myself to purchase when she releases a new book. This is her first cookbook. Or, for equal Kiwi freshness, try anything by Nadia Lim.

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Recipes from the heartland

Book

I am a country girl and remember a very battered earlier version of this in my mum’s drawer. This 2007 version updates the tried and true recipes. Or, you could try one of the 'Ladies a Plate' collection.

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Better than a bought one

Jo Seagar

Book

I love Jo Seagar because she takes something that looks complicated and makes it simple (or in her words 'easy-peasy'). This is her latest book but there are several others to choose from.

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The village table

Book

There is some local bias in this choice, as it features stories and recipes from Matakana School - and is a fundraiser. But it has the expertise of Lauraine Jacobs behind it. You could also try her new book, 'Always Delicious.'

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The Tin Goose Cafe cookbook

Jeanie Watson

Book

Lots of our favourite cafés and restaurants have published recipe books. This is one of my favourites but you could also try the recently released 'Cuba Street' or 'The New Zealand Café Cookbook.'

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Cooking 4 change

Book

I love the idea of collecting from famous Kiwis for a good cause. In this case, it’s their recipes and includes the stories behind their choices.

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Michael Symon's playing with fire

Michael Symon

Book

Friends of mine bought themselves a proper smoker and barbecue last year. They are real foodies and highly recommend this book. They are all currently working their way through the recipes.

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One pot, big pot

Shane Hetherington

Book

'All in' is one of my favourite ways of cooking – and it means less dishes. If there’s too much for one meal, then portions get frozen for other days. Check out 'Week in a day' by Rachel Ray for other ways of cooking using this method.

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Breakfast is served

Laura Ascari

Book

Unlike many people who eschew breakfast, it is one of my favourite meals, so this book is completely to my taste. And for the days she sleeps it, brunch is definitely a requirement.

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Around the world in 80 dishes

Book

When I want to stretch my taste-buds but aren’t sure where to go, I turn to books like this, or, 'The immigrant cookbook: recipes that make the world great.' Of course, there are a wide range of ethnic cuisines in our collection to choose from.

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Auckland Council Libraries:Book list Recommended reading lists about different topics and genres to help you find new books to read.