Williams-Sonoma Kitchen Companion: The A to Z Everyday Cooking, Equipment, and Ingredients

I find myself referring to this book frequently. I'm considered a gourmet chef by friends and family but I find I can always learn something new from looking things up in The Kitchen Companion. A kitchen library isn't complete without this book.

I've used this book for everything from translating terms in european cookbooks to substituting ingredients in a pinch. This book answers those questions and more. It is set up to be a resource and an entertaining read with details and history. On more than one occasion I have looked up a simple "how to" and also found out WHY I needed to do that "how to". I don't often pick up a cookbook to read, this is a book to curl up with and to cook with.

This is not only for new cooks,but indispensable for experienced culinary masters as well! I bought this book full price at a book store and it was worth the 25.00-grab one at this price! It isn't just another boring index of the basics, but give information on how to store food, how long ingredients can be frozen for, how to clean items, equipment guidlines, etc etc. I watch TV Cooking shows, subsribe to several cooking magazines and consider myself pretty knowledgeful in the kitchen but still reach for this book a couple times a week. Easy to find what you are looking for w/alphabetical index set up. I wouldn't have expected anything less from williams Sonoma. Great book-my bible.

Real useable info that all cooks need to know, not recipes but useable knowledge in easy to find order. A must for beginners! A good companion for another great fun book " Secrets to a Successful Greenhouse and Business".

I bought this book as a gift, and had to order another. I just couldn't put it down. It has a nice cover with tabs to keep your place and wipes clean easy. Ordered from A to Z is everything to do with cooking including tips and some history. Label terms, food, herbs, pans, preserving, and kitchen appliances - it is really amazing. Everybody on my Christmas list is getting one this year.