Le Cordon Bleu's Complete Cooking Techniques : the indispensable reference demonstates over 700 illustrated techniques with 2,000 photos and 200 recipes

Rating:
Summary: A must have for the gourmet home chef
Review: This book is NOT about following someone else's recipes, it is about explaining culinary knowledge and techniques which provide the foundation required to excel in the gourmet kitchen. Well-layed out format and photos eliminate the intimidation factor.

Rating:
Summary: Good Introduction
Review: This is a good introductory book for beginners only. More experienced cooks will be impatient with the amount of space given to very basic techniques, like how to julienne vegetables, etc. The book is very nicely illustrated with abundant photographs.