Heather M. (gargirl) reviewed The new cookbook for poor poets (and others) on + 36 more book reviews
My favorite cookbook. Written in a manner that invites browsers to actually dive in and read it, this book should have a place on everyone's shelves. I have raised/am raising my kids with the main philosophy this book puts forth: No matter how simple the fare, any meal can be made much more enjoyable if one follows some simple rules. 1. Always serve fresh bread, 2. Always use butter, and 3. Always serve wine. Any one of those might be an extravagance at times, that is understood, but the idea is that instead of feeling bad that one cannot afford steak or lobster serve that lentil stew proudly with some fresh but cheap bread, a bit of real butter and some cheap wine. Light candles, have some music and laughter, invite neighbors and friends to a pot luck, apply the three rules and celebrate! There are some good recipes in this little book but, more importantly, there are stories and advice that impart a feeling that hard times come and go but our attitude can carry us through it all.
