Mirabelle Cookbook

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Summary: Mirabelle Cookbook
Review: Chef Marco Pierre White purchased the Mirabelle, a restaurant dating from before World War II, in 1997 with the goal to produce an 'affordable glamour' in the heart of Mayfair. He has succeeded for the Mirabelle is now one of the most sought-after places in London in which to dine. This beautiful cookbook has more than just recipes. It's extremely entertaining to read as Chef White has incorporated not only a history of himself and the restaurant, but he has also included a map, copies of past and current menus and temptingly lovely photographs of most of the recipes given. The extra large glossy pages and print make it comfortable to read. The average non-gourmand will find this an extremely cookable cookbook as the directions are detailed and easily followed. The selection of recipes include a blend of traditional English and French cuisine, updated to suit a modern diner's taste. Starters can be as simple as a plate of smoked salmon garnished with shallots, parsley and capers, or a prawn cocktail served in a tomato shell. The main courses are as down-to-earth as fish and chips. However, gourmet dishes such as tarte tatin and grilled lobster are also available. The dessert menu has something to suit all tastes, from sticky toffee pudding to raspberries in champagne jelly. Additional recipes and directions are given for the 'basics'. Any stock, sauce, puree or mayonnaise listed as a called-for ingredient is included. This is surely one of the best 'restaurant' cookery books available. It seems that Chef Marco Pierre White wants the home cook to be as successful in creating delicious foods as is his desire to please the refined palates of diners at the Mirabelle.