#23 - Stir: Mixing It Up in the Italian Tradition

I picked up Stir: Mixing It Up in the Italian Tradition by Barbara Lynch simply because I have a fascination with what I term "food porn" books. These are often the overly showy "cookbooks" showcasing a renown chef's work and then offering a recipe so complex and expensive that it is only present to solidify the reader's reverence and fear. I have a love-hate relationship with such books. I often pick up a single technique or idea rather than any whole recipe, and it does serve as a bit of inspiration, but they often leave me feeling a bit inadequate and hollow. So when the striking black cover with just two spoons showcasing a bit of Bolognese and a twirl of fresh pasta, I thought I was in for more of the same, only possibly worse because Italian food is my core and heritage. I don't believe it should be made into overly-expensive tiny portions and foams and whatnot. Thankfully I was completely surprised. This book is completely approachable, offers wit and humor, and is just stunning. There are still a few unapproachable dishes, and some that just don't appeal to me, but over half of the book are recipes I will make... and look very much forward to enjoying. This is a winner. Highly Recommended!