Gourmet Cooking for Dummies

Rating:
Summary: Excellent
Review: Everything you read in the editor's copy is absolutely correct. Chef Trotter is one the the premier American chefs (and I cannot believe he wrote a "Dummies" book. He is the most humble and unpretentious of executive chefs anywhere) and you can't beat the easy-to-follow recipes (an education in itself) and the price of the book (compared to his others). I highly recommend this is novice and experienced cooks!

Rating:
Summary: The recipes are supurb!
Review: If anyone is interested in becoming a truly Gormet Cook, this is the book. For the very experienced cook, there isn't a lot new as far as tips and information, however, the recipes are sublime. Each one is better than the next and they are fairly easy to read and follow for excellent results. I was very impressed and would recommend it not only for the information but epecially for the exotic yet simple recipes.

Rating:
Summary: This is Trotter's gift to the home chef
Review: If you can forget the fact that this book is from the "for dummies" series, you are in for a real treat. During the first few chapters of this book, Trotter gives you detailed accounts of gourmet cooking methods, and soon you will understand what makes him one of the world's best chefs. I own books by Alice Walker, James Beard, Emeril, the Cul. Inst. of America, and none of them come close to exposing the breadth of knowledge Trotter presents. The exquisite recipes he gives in the later chapters give you detailed accounts of 'why' the recipes work, not only 'how.' I've been using the book as a guide now for about 8 months, (the pages are practically falling off), and people can't believe the meals I prepare. Most importantly, it actually teaches you how to cook by improvising if you want. Even if you are a good cook, you will feel humbled at how much you didn't actually know about the art. I assume, unfortunately, that the book's unattractive cover is the reason this has not become a staple in all kitchens.

Rating:
Summary: This is Trotter's gift to the home chef
Review: If you can forget the fact that this book is from the "for dummies" series, you are in for a real treat. During the first few chapters of this book, Trotter gives you detailed accounts of gourmet cooking methods, and soon you will understand what makes him one of the world's best chefs. I own books by Alice Walker, James Beard, Emeril, the Cul. Inst. of America, and none of them come close to exposing the breadth of knowledge Trotter presents. The exquisite recipes he gives in the later chapters give you detailed accounts of 'why' the recipes work, not only 'how.' I've been using the book as a guide now for about 8 months, (the pages are practically falling off), and people can't believe the meals I prepare. Most importantly, it actually teaches you how to cook by improvising if you want. Even if you are a good cook, you will feel humbled at how much you didn't actually know about the art. I assume, unfortunately, that the book's unattractive cover is the reason this has not become a staple in all kitchens.

Rating:
Summary: This is my favorite book!
Review: Not only my favorite cookbook, but my single favorite book of any kind, that I keep going back to again and again. I learn something new every time I pick up this little gem! Highly recommended for those of us not formally trained in the culinary arts!

Rating:
Summary: A GREAT REFERENCE FOR THE ASPIRING CHEF
Review: This is perhaps one of the most accessible (and affordable) 'celebrity' cookbooks on the market today. The depth of explanation is remarkable compared to Trotter's other books, many of which serve only to stoke the ego of a wealthy restaurateur. Gourmet Cooking for Dummies breaks down many of the barriers associated with fine cooking. By explaining techniques (many of which are very simple), Trotter's book allows readers to expose themselves to food and cooking to an extent previously limited to complicated picture books dedicated to food (as many of Trotter's other books are). A great learning tool for beginners, and (as the saying goes) "a reference for the rest of us." Highly recommended.

Rating:
Summary: Learn how to prepare mouth-watering, guest-impressing dishes
Review: You want to impress you future in-laws but you don't know the difference between niçoise, julienne and demi-glace. Or what do you do when you're cooking a romantic dinner for your date and your rich sauce is curdling before your eyes? Charlie Trotter has built an international reputation with his famous Chicago restaurant Charlie Trotter's and he now passes his gourmet knowledge to anyone who has ever dreamed of making culinary wonders. GOURMET COOKING FOR DUMMIES starts with sharing the secrets of good ingredients, herbs, spices and gadgets. Once you know what to use, you can discover the more complicated food techniques like making a reduction or how to add dimension with Oven-Dried Carrot Strips. Each chapter of GOURMET COOKING FOR DUMMIES covers a certain part of great cuisine, like fresh vegetables, beef, seafood, poultry, drop-dead desserts - and gives incredible but easy recipes while encouraging the reader to experiment and try new creative ideas. Later chapters show how to make everything look gourmet, from selecting the perfect menu and matching flavors and textures to planning your feast in advance.