Mrs. Restino's Country Kitchen

I have had this book for about 26 years--wow. I can't believe in all that time I only finally got around to writing a review. Folks, this book is indispensable for anyone who wants to feel at home in their own kitchen--country or otherwise. It is and has been the go to book for just about every problem I've needed to solve in the kitchen, and still continues to amaze me with its exhaustive coverage. Susan Restino has a practical approach, combined with a sense of freedom to explore, that highlights what is important to know about the foods and tools you're working with, and lets you figure out how you want the thing to taste, or what ingredients you might like to sub out. Her recipes are big, broad strokes that are hard to mess up. Her coffee cake recipe alone could get just about anybody out of a scrape. Most importantly, she tells you why you ought to do what she suggests, and what will happen if you fudge it a little, or improvise. She dispels snooty kitchen "magic" myths, and cues you in on many of the shortcuts she's figured out along the way. She helps you think about a meal and what is important about it for which reasons. Are you cooking for someone who's sick? Are you trying to use up a huge pile of zucchini? Mrs. Restino is there for you. She's like the kitchen's own country doctor.

I've read a lot of food growing/cook books, and this is by far the best when it comes to getting plenty of ideas across clearly in the fewest words possible. Loads of practical ways of preserving and cooking great food, that most people can use, with items they already have around the house. Something for everyone, no matter how much or how little space or knowledge you have. I found it at the library, and will be getting my own copy now! It's too good not to have right at hand.

My husband and I love this book. From the Clam Chowder to "How to Freeze green beans". This is a must have in any kitchen. Very informative.