La Cuisine: The Complete Book of French Cooking

Found this book purely by chance in the school library and fell in love. Bought a copy immediately. I works best for those that have had training or experience in cooking but the selections are so balance there is a lot there for everyone. Each recipe had a difficulty indicator and if you want to experiment with even the most difficult ..then ... why not..go ahead..you will definitely learn something..and enjoy doing it. Very nice book indeed. I love it.

This is an excellent reference for experts and beginners alike. The book starts with illustrations and explanations for the most basic elements of cooking.Each recipe, and this is its best feature, tells you the degree of difficulty with one (simplest) to three chef hats (most difficult). It also tells you the preparation time and cooking time, so you know before you engage in a recipe, how much time it will take you. Last but not least, the recipes are superb! You really have to try them! I bought the book in (circa) 1986 and am looking for a new copy/print.