The Loaf and Ladle Cook Book

A gem! I loved eating at the Loaf & Ladle in Exeter, NH and am so glad to have found these recipes of much beloved dishes.

I've used this cookbook since the 80's. I don't even know if the restaurant is still open, but she has great recipes for soups, breads and desserts. Plain, simple, easy to make and delicious. The very definition of homemade. I used to use the recipes for my own sandwich shop over 20 years ago. I lost my original copy and just bought it again, used. It has a divine recipe for chocolate sheet cake with cream cheese icing ever. Highly recommend. My other favorite cookbook for easy homemade is Woodbine Cottage, another New Hampshire restaurant.

I am one of those fortunate souls who received the book as a gift from reviewer John Stone about eight years ago. Imagine my delight when finding his words here as I contemplated buying the Loaf and Ladle Cookbook as Christmas gifts for several friends. He's right, it's wonderful - a classic of simplicity and a trusted friend. What fun to find Martha's Company Casserole, which I received from my sister in our 1960s newlywed days and thought was a treasured family recipe from her in-laws. Here it is called Bob's Casserole, but it has stood the test of time. And who but Joan Harlow could inspire me to combine apples and cabbage for an Apple Slaw that has been the hit of numerous potlucks?I heartily recommend this book for all cooks, whether skilled or rank beginners.

An easy to follow book of bread, soup and casserole recipes. Many useable recipes. I have been to the restaurant several times and would go more often if it were closer to home. I was suprised to see that they don't sell the book in the restaurant.

I went to prep school in the town that this restaurant "lives in" - and live, it does. I've given this book to many people - having eaten there every Saturday from age 14 to 18, and having loved the food. Whenever I get back there, I go there, and always get Joan's hearty and yummy food. These recipes are easy to execute for someone who's not the most professional of chefs, and never fail to taste good. I love any cookbook that's not afraid to call for Real-lemon - when that will do just fine..... or, one that starts a recipe out with "catch a good fish". The soups are wonderful and easy - and the breads are also great - I use a bread machine to knead the dough, raise the bread and then bake it in pans or free form....comes out wonderfully. Stews, soups and breads - what more could one want? A big test of how well I like a cookbook is how many stains it has on the pages (lots) and how many people I've shared it with/given it to (also lots).