Raised in the kitchen by Carrian Cheney

 

*Disclosure of material connection- I received the book in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book- 

From the time her children were toddlers, family cooking blogger Carrian Cheney found creative ways to get her children interested in cooking, partly to teach them basic kitchen skills so they could be part of the solution when they were hungry and partly to instill in them a joy of creating and presenting delicious meals, as her own mother had taught her.

From food prep to clean-up, this unique cookbook guides the way through every step, including meal lists and easy-to-follow recipes, and features dollops of heartwarming family stories, insights, and kid-friendly food activities to keep young chefs focused on fun in the kitchen.

The book includes 75 recipes that begin with basics such as fried eggs, pizza dough, and baked potatoes. As new cooking skills are learned, the recipes progress to guaranteed kid favorites like chocolate chip pancakes, steak fajitas, and apple dumplings. Recipes are joined with tips to help home chefs master the art of cooking, from stocking a pantry to proper kitchen etiquette and safety to how to add flair to a table setting—even how to coax a picky eater by tempting their tastebuds.

Raised in the Kitchen is a cookbook for parents and kids about much more than learning to love to cook. It’s about bringing families together with cooking memories that will last a lifetime.

My thoughts-

My kids are getting older. They are all in the pre-teen to teen stage but something we have always done is hang out in the kitchen to gether making recipes, so I adored the concept of this book. I thought maybe we could find new recipes for my 11 year old boys who still love to cook both with me and without me now. I love the way the book is set up, starting with simple, basic recipes and progressing into family friendly favorites that might be a little more challenging (yet still doable) for little ones. I will definitely be recommending this book to my friends with younger children, and we will also be utilizing some of these recipes in ourkitchen as well! 

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks by Ashley Craft

 

*Disclosure of material connection- I received the book in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Stroll right down the middle of Main Street USA, journey from Adventureland to Infinity and Beyond at Pixar Pier, and explore every avenue in between to taste the flavors of the Disney Parks…all without leaving your kitchen.

With The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook you can bring the magic of Disneyland and Walt Disney World snacks and treats right to your home. Recreate favorites like the classic Dole Whip and Mickey Pretzels to new favorites like blue milk from Star Wars land and Jack Jack’s Cookie Num Nums from Pixar Pier.

My thoughts-

There are so many people who are just itching to go travel right now, but some people are still not feeling comfortable doing so or some places are still closed down or they lost jobs during the pandemic and it just isn't possible. Disney parks are open but for those who can not make the trip but who want to bring a little magic home, The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbokok is a great way to do so. The ever popular, and my favorite Disney treat, the Dole Whip makes an appearance here, but there are also so many different treats, drinks, and foods to try at your home. If you are ever planning a Disney themed party, this could be the sole resource for food. It is also a great go to for fun treats for your kids (or the Disney kid in your) especially during this tough time we are all going through right now with the pandemic. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a little magic and light or of course to Disney lovers. 

The 30-Minute Gluten-Free Cookbook by Jan Withington

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own.

About the book-

Whether you have a gluten intolerance or you’ve recently decided to cut gluten from your daily diet, making the switch to gluten-free has never been faster, easier, or more delectable. The 30-Minute Gluten-Free Cookbook is the perfect way to start eating smarter and healthier with tons of recipes you can make at home in just minutes.

From Mexican Chili Corn Pie to Teriyaki Chicken Burgers, this complete gluten-free cookbook takes the guesswork out of being a glutenless gourmet. Discover everything you need to whip up delicious dishes you’ll enjoy. With this all-in-one gluten-free cookbook, you’ll feel great with good food that tastes great too.

My thoughts-

My family all tend to do better on a gluten free diet. I know for me in particular that when I eat foods that contain gluten it causes digestion issues and acid reflux a lot of the time so I definitely try to limit the gluten at our house. I tend to follow a more ketogenic/low carb lifestyle but some gluten free recipes can definitely plug in to those ways of eating and lots of gf recipes for my kids to give a try. We are a pretty busy family between scouts, soccer, and other multiple after school activities between my 3 kids (when we are not on lockdown for a global pandemic, that is) so time saving recipes are my jam for regular weeknights.  There are tons of great recipes in this book for all different times of day, and I like that they lean on the healthier side of things because even eating gluten free you can eat in a not so healthy way. Even though the recipes are healthy they sound like they would be delicious, especially the pistachio cranberry energy bites (which would be a big hit around my house with adults and children alike), sheet pan chicken fajitas, pepperjack stuffed chicken, and pressure cooker beef stew. I am also excited to try a few of the desserts, particularly the lemon curd with mixed berries, which sounds like a perfect end to a summer day. 

The Essential Middle Eastern Cookbook

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own.

About the book-

Fresh herbs and spices, creamy yogurt, savory skewered meats, and flaky baklava—Middle Eastern cuisine is famous for its vibrant flavors. Now, you can recreate iconic dishes in your own kitchen with The Essential Middle Eastern Cookbook. Packed with 100 classic recipes made simple, this complete Middle East cookbook gives you a true taste of one of the world’s most influential culinary regions.

Try your hand at delectable dishes like Tabbouleh, Lebanese Chicken Fatteh, Spiced Beef Tagine, and homemade Pita Bread with Hummus. All of the ingredients in this Middle East cookbook are easily found in your neighborhood grocery store, yet they stay true to the authentic flavors and textures of each traditional meal. Let’s eat!

My thoughts-

I am married into a Middle Eastern family so I also married into the delicious food of their culture. My husband's family comes from Iran, but we also know that there are plenty of great dishes to be discovered from all of the other surrounding countries, and we often try new cuisines together (whether they be Middle Eastern or from some other far off place). We love discovering the many delectable dishes that are available if you just have a sense of adventure and the patience to look for them. The Essential Middle Eastern Cookbook combines flavors from all over the Middle East, allowing us the opportunity to try new things from many different places, as well as having some of our favorite Persian recipes (Shirazi salad, Gorheh Sabzi, and Kashke Bademjan). There are plenty of Turkish, Lebanese, and recipes from all kinds of other places we can not wait to try. If you have never had food from the Middle East and are intimidated by the different flavors, I urge you to be adventurous and give it a try!

The Easy Puerto Rican Cookbook by Tony Rican

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own.

About the book-

Puerto Rican cooking is rich with diverse flavors and textures that come together to create a unique culinary experience you could only find on the Island of Enchantment—until now. The Easy Puerto Rican Cookbook is packed with 100 classic recipes made simple, so you can create mouthwatering meals in your own kitchen with ease.

Discover dozens of weeknight-friendly recipes, including a number of dishes that take 30 minutes or less to prepare and serve. Simplify your routine with recipes containing five ingredients or fewer, one-pot meals, slow-cooker dinners, and more. The authentic recipes in this Puerto Rican cookbook focus on whole foods, so you get all of the incredible flavors of traditional cuisine without the salt, fat, and processed ingredients.

My thoughts-

I think this may be the most well organized cookbook I have ever seen. I wanted to read the book to learn more about Puerto Rican food and gather some new recipes but I was impressed by the sheer volume of content, and was particularly thrilled to see catergories like "under 30 minutes" and "one pot" in addition to the traditional categories that you normal find in cookbooks. I was thankful for the introduction at the beginning that briefly goes over Puerto Rican culinary history as I don't know a lot about this particular type of cuisine. The recipes seemed accesible for the most part, although there were some odd ingredients here and there that may not be on the shelves at your local grocery store and may need to be ordered online. There were distinctly Puerto Rican flavors throughout (lots of plantains and sofritos in this book!), which is exactly what I was hoping for. I can not wait to try out some of these recipes. 

The One-Pot Paleo Cookbook

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

People have praised the paleo diet as an approachable and appetizing method of losing weight and managing chronic conditions—but the stressful daily grind can lead paleo followers to rely on highly processed, high-carb dishes. The One-Pot Paleo Cookbook combines the hearty flavors and health benefits of the paleo lifestyle with a variety of easy-to-make, single-vessel recipes to keep you on the paleo path.

The One-Pot Paleo Cookbook explores the basics of the "cave-dweller diet" with details on paleo-approved foods and an overview of how the paleo diet can reduce heart disease and inflammation, encourage healthy weight loss, and improve digestion. Utilizing a simple set-it-and-forget-it process and fuss-free recipes, these 100+ mouthwatering, macro-friendly meals are perfect for staying on the paleo diet—all you need is one dish.

My thoughts-

There are some delicious recipes in this cookbook. Eating healthy is always easier when you have delicious new recipes to keep things from getting boring. I thought most of the recipes sounded fantastic. I don't follow a paleo diet but I think that is a tremendously  healthy way of eating and the whole foods you use are great foods that are good for you and taste fantastic. I am particularly excited to try steak with tomatoes and green beans. That sounds like a lunch I would go to often. I also thought the ground beef and cabbage stir fry and the pot roast dinner sounded like great healthy versions of comfort foods. I recommend this book to anyone who wants some new variations on dinner, especially when we are stuck home right now cooking more and variety can really help eating healthy way less boring. 

Candy Making for Beginners by Karen Neugebauer

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Get ready to turn your home into a fully-stocked candy store! This candy cookbook for beginners shows you how easy and fun it can be to make sweet treats that everyone will love.

Filled with expert guidance for those just starting out on their confectionery journey, this is a candy cookbook that will have you fixing up dozens of delightful delicacies in no time. Create everything from fudge and honey caramels to sour gummy worms and peppermint patties as you discover your inner candy maker.

My thoughts-

I have been baking for a long time, but candy has always kind of intimidated me. i have dabbled here and there, but nothing too intricate or difficult. Candy Making for Beginners is full of all of the information I need to be comfortable trying my hand at candy making confidently. There is plenty of information on techniques to help make sure you are following the steps and getting everything right. I am excited to get in the kitchen with my kids, who all love to cook and bake, to make some of these treats. I also think that for many of these recipes it is possible to attempt low carb versions by replacing the sugar with better low carb options and I will definitely be giving that a try! I recommend this book to anyone who has been thinking about trying candy making or who wants some fun new sweet recipes!

The Kitchen without Borders by The Eat Offbeats Chefs

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Founded in November 2015 by a brother and sister who came to New York from the Middle East, Eat Offbeat is a unique catering company staffed by refugee and immigrant chefs who have found a new home, and new hope, for their lives. Now, in 70 authentic, nourishing recipes, with roots and soul that run as deep as their flavors, The Kitchen without Borders brings the culinary traditions of fourteen chefs from around the world including Syria, Iran, Eritrea, and Venezuela, right to our tables.

Discover delicious, unexpected flavor combinations, and ingredients—like sumac, pomegranate molasses, tahini—that will enhance the repertoire of any home cook or adventurous eater. Here is Iraqi Biryani, a rice dish combining vegetables and plump dried fruits with warming spices. Or an irresistibly cooling yogurt and fresh mint drink native to Afghanistan, known as doogh. Gorgeously smooth Syrian hummus, the original inspiration for Eat Offbeat. And Chari Bari, hand-formed meatballs simmered in a Nepali-spiced tomato and cashew sauce.

More than a celebration of delicious foods from around the world, this recipe collection—with its intimate chef profiles and photographic portraits—allows people who have been displaced to share their cherished cuisines, in their own words. And it makes a thoughtful, inspiring gift for any home cook, for anyone concerned about or affected by the world's refugee crisis, or for anyone who understands the profound link between food, home, and keeping traditions vibrantly alive.

My thoughts-

The Kitchen without Borders is a beautiful cookbook for some many reasons. It goes beyond a traditional cookbook with just recipes to a peek into the people who run the kitchen at Eat Offbeats. I find other cultures fascinating and enjoy food from different places as well, so this was a great cookbook for me, one of my favorites in a long while. I loved reading the stories about the different chefs, and how it included both anecdotes about growing up back home (whether that be Nepal or Iran or numerous other places) as well as moving to a new country and starting over and about their time in The Eat Offbeats kitchen. Most of these chefs are refugees which makes the fact that this company exists even cooler. They have a shared story although all of their stories are different. I recommend this book to anyone who loves to cook or learn new things. 

The Kid-Friendly ADHD Autism Cookbook

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

One of the challenges that parents face is coping with children who have picky appetites and crave the very foods that negatively affect their behavior, focus, and development. Linked to this is the challenge of finding ways to get their children to eat the healthy foods that will improve their nutrition. This book provides suggestions for feeding picky eaters, including those with texture issues.

The 3rd edition of The Kid-Friendly ADHD & Autism Cookbook provides a current and greatly expanded review of the most commonly used diets that are important in the treatment of ADHD and autism. There are recipes appropriate to specific diets as indicated by icons and descriptors with each recipe. The authors share details about just how and why each diet works, examine specialty ingredients in-depth, and provide extensive resources and references.

My thoughts-

Once upon a time I had an older edition of this book at my home. I am not sure what happened to it, but I was definitely interested in this update. This version, the 3rd edition of The Kid-Friendly ADHD & Autism Cookbook is a plethora of great information. There are some wonderful break downs of the different diets that might help kids with these neurological differences. I am familiar with a few but not all of these diets so it was nice to have them all explained and how each might help or which one might be right for your kid or kids. I found that all of the recipes included were kid friendly enough to work for our family. I think this is a book that is worth having for any parent with a kid with adhd or autism. 

The Secret Garden Cookbook by Amy Cotler

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Frances Hodgson Burnett's wonderful tale The Secret Garden celebrates its young heroine, Mary Lennox, as she brings an abandoned garden back to life. It also delights in good food, robust appetites, and the health and strength they can bring. It describes a world where water, light, and loving care bring soil and plants back to life—and also one in which fresh milk, homemade currant buns, and hearty, simple fare renew and bring pleasure to the novel's complex and fascinating characters.

Amy Cotler serves up in these pages 50 recipes, all updated for the modern kitchen, that are at once true to Mary's world and completely appealing for today's tastes. You will find a bounty of baked things, including English Crumpets, Cozy Currant Buns, Jam Roly Poly, Dough Cakes with Cinnamon and Sugar, and The Best Sticky Gingerbread Parkin. (A parkin is a cake rich in molasses, honey, and sugar that often is served on Guy Fawkes Day.) There is more-substantial and savory fare for teatime and dinnertime, too, and for breakfast and brunch, along with drinks and snacks for the daily whirl—all guaranteed to keep the magic of this beloved tale alive for years to come.

My thoughts-

I love the beautiful cover to this book with the gorgeous colors that bring you right into the garden. The inside pages are filled with recipes, history of food, and book quotes to further transport you to the Secret Garden novel. The mouthwatering recipes mostly make me want to host an afternoon tea or go have a picnic. The Secret Garden Cookbook celebrates fresh foods and a time when people would get their food from their own gardens. There are many of great dishes included, but I was excited especially to see  a couple of Indian dishes in the book. Any fan of The Secret Garden will enjoy this cookbook. 

Keto Simple by Martina Sajerova

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and al opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Best-selling KetoDiet author, Martina Slajerova gives 100 delicious recipes that are easy in preparation and technique, frugal in the number of required ingredients, and can be put together quickly. No stress. No complication. Just a great keto meal from stove to table in minimal time.

Keto has become the hottest health-supportive diet around. However, even the most committed keto follower doesn't always have the time and inclination to cook for 90 minutes or the budget-bandwidth for 14-ingredient dinners. With Keto Simple, you can live your keto lifestyle without it becoming expensive, complicated, or all-consuming. Along with simply amazing recipes, find meal-prepping, planning, and shopping strategies that save you time and money.

Whether you are looking for a quick recipe to throw in your office lunchbox or how to build out leftovers and simple base recipes into tomorrow's menu, Keto Simple has you covered.

My thoughts-

When it comes to Ketogenic cookbooks, if either Maria Emmerich or Martina Slajerova, I am going to look to it for recipes. Before I even so this was a cookbook by Martina Slajerova, I loved the beautiful cover and the clever play on words of the title "Keto Simple" (keep it simple) and the idea of easy meals that could help keep me on track. When I dove into the recipes I was even more impressed. There were not only some great breakfasts, and a nice section on lunchboxes, there were several interesting dinners with some outside of the box meats like duck and lamb, which I think can really elevate a meal. I absolutely recommend this book to anyone who wants to live a healthy low carb lifestyle full of tasty meals but that may not have the time to make elaborate meals. 

The Backyard Fire Cookbook by Linda Ly

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% own. 

About the book-

There's no denying the thrill of cooking outdoors and the sense of community it brings when people gather around a fire, and in this book, author Linda Ly will teach you how to master the flames. For the adventurous, start by building a home fire pit. It's easier than it sounds and requires minimal investment of time and space. If you'd rather not, that's okay! There are plenty of other options, from vessel fire pits to tabletop grills. Even a charcoal kettle grill will give you more flavor than cooking with gas. Ly also covers everything you need to know about fuel sources (hardwood, hardwood lump charcoal, and smoking wood), her go-to grilling tools and accessories, secrets for stocking an indoor and outdoor pantry, fire making, fire safety, and tips and tricks for grilling more efficiently.

You can choose your own adventure with over 70 recipes for ember roasting, wood-fired cooking, charcoal grilling, and foil pack meals. Next-level techniques like dutch oven cooking, grilling a la plancha, and plank grilling are all part of the fun, too. With modern twists on classics and globally-inspired meals like Smoky Ember-Roasted Eggplant Dip, Thai Chicken Pizza with Sweet Chili Sauce, Grilled Oysters with Kimchi Butter, Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf on a Plank, and Artichoke, Sun-Dried Tomato, and Feta Stuffed Flank Steak, you’ll find a recipe for almost every occasion. This is not a book about low-and-slow barbecue, and you won't find overnight marinades or complicated recipes, either. Ly aims to encourage easy, accessible grilling that you look forward to doing on a weeknight because, quite simply, food just tastes better outside.
My thoughts-

My husband loves cooking outside on his smoker and the idea of having a homemade firepit back there is incredibly tempting and something I definitely may want to pursue after reading The Backyard Fire Cookbook, but even if we don't build our own backyard fire pit, many of these recipes would be great for camping trips! I love that there is a how-to for building a firepit and a plethora of interesting recipes that I wouldn't have even thought about making outdoors. I love that the book goes beyond burgers, pulled pork, and brisket. and offers a fresh new take on backyard cooking. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys being outside and loves cooking and trying new things. 

Everyday Keto Baking by Erica Kerwien

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher from Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.

About the book-

Have your cake—and stay keto too! With Everyday Keto Baking, there's no need to deprive yourself of the breads, muffins, and other treats you love. Instead, learn to make keto-friendly (low-carb, high-fat) versions of your favorite baked goods using real-food ingredients. This is the only keto baking book you'll ever need.

Inside you'll find more than 80 recipes specifically geared to the keto diet. Most recipes rely on coconut flour and almond flour, two of the most popular alternative flours on the market. Coconut flour is an all-natural flour made only from coconut; contains no gluten and no grain; and is low in digestible carbs and high in fiber, making it a favorite among keto, gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free, and low-glycemic lifestyles. Its pure, slightly sweet taste is subtle enough that even coconut haters won't be able to detect it, and it lends itself perfectly to baked goods, creating results far superior to many other “healthy” treats. Alongside other healthy ingredients like eggs and low-carbsweeteners, the recipes in this book have been carefully created to not only taste delicious, but also help you meet your macros (your target ratio of protein, fat, and carbs on keto).

My thoughts-

I love everything about this cookbook. It is not difficult to live a Ketogenic lifestyle in general because you can eat meat and cheese, and lots of veggies. However, when it comes to baked goods, including both sweet and savory indulgences, it can be difficult to find good recipes. This cookbook is full of them! My mouth was literally watering at all of the fantastic breads, and desserts! One of the tough things about eating Ketogenically is missing sweets at parties. There is every option here to make sweets that aren't fat bombs or cheesecake fluff, but real downhome comfort food desserts like brownies, cobblers, cookies, and cake. I also thought the savory main dishes in the last section of the book sounded delicious. I recommend this book to anyone who eats a ketogenic or low carb diet. Everyday Keto Baking is a must have for your low carb/keto cookbook collection!

The Ultimate Gluten Free, Dairy Free Collection by Grace Cheetham

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100 % my own. 

About the book-
Whether you're following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet, then this is the only book you will ever need to eat well and feel great!

With over 200 recipes for everything from breakfasts and light lunches to weeknight dinners and show-stopping mains, plus delicious desserts and a whole section on gluten free baking, this book is the perfect guide to free from cookery.

Start your day with Buckwheat and Blueberry Pancakes or Muesli with Summer Fruit Compote, and discover dinnertime recipes that the whole family will enjoy, such as like Chicken Sesame Nuggets, Courgette and Sage Spaghetti Carbonara, or the best gluten free, dairy free lasagne. For special occasions, there are dinner-party dishes such as Beef Wellington, and to finish, why not try a classic Sticky Toffee Pudding?

From celebration cakes to cookies, sourdough loaves to salads, these are tried-and-tested recipes from one of the most respected names in gluten free cookery. Grace Cheetham has spent the last 10 years educating readers on the best way to cook without allergens. This collection is the ultimate celebration of her best-loved recipes.

My thoughts-

I liked that this book was gluten free and dairy free because my daughter can't have gluten and her best friend (that happens to be my best friend's daughter so we are together a lot) has an allergy to dairy so it is handy to have a book that addresses both of their special food needs. Beyond that, the recipes all sound delicious. I especially love the section at the end of the book with the different bread and pastry recipes. The desserts also are notable for the different flavor options, particularly the raspberry and rosewater cupcakes. There are lots of great options to be found here whether you are gluten free, dairy free or both.

Curry & Kimchi by Unmi Abkin; Roger Taylor

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

In their western Massachusetts-based restaurant Coco and The Cellar Bar, chefs Unmi Abkin and Roger Taylor create well-balanced, boldly flavored signature dishes shaped by Abkin’s Korean and Mexican-American upbringing. In Curry & Kimchi, they open their kitchen secrets up to the home cook, sharing their foundational dressings, salsas, broths, and infused oils and the dishes that feature them, through recipes that are delightfully simple to execute and beautifully complex in flavor. Honey Miso Dressing lends full-bodied taste to Honey Miso Noodle Salad, while Shoyu Ramen Broth (made in an Instant Pot) is the key ingredient in Coco Shoyu Ramen. Other favorites include a Korean-inspired take on Bolognese sauce for Korean Spaghetti and Korean Sloppy Joes, Chow Fun Sauce (for Coriander Shrimp Chow Fun), Scallion Ginger Jam (for Clay Pot Miso Chicken), and Ponzu Sauce (for Miso-Glazed Cod Rice Bowl). Together with vivid restaurant photography that shows elegant plating suggestions, Abkin and Taylor’s recipes will inspire readers to prepare home-cooked meals with remarkable clarity of flavor. 

My thoughts-

Everyone in my house loves Korean food, especially my husband and me. 9 times out of 10 when we go out with our close friends we choose to go to our favorite Korean BBQ restaurant, but I haven't tried to cook it at home. I haven't come across a cookbook yet that I thought would be feasible for me to attempt the recipes from. Curry & Kimchi caught my attention because I thought the title was cute and I immediately thought of Korean food. I also loved the beautiful cover. As I explored the book, my mouth watered at the delicious recipes. I especially can't wait to make the ramen broth in my Instant Pot! I was also pretty interested in one of the American inspired recipes- the mac & cheese- it sounded so delicious. I recommend this book to anyone who loves Asian food of any kind. I also recommend this as a gift book, since it's gorgeous and would look great no a coffee table or set out on a cookbook stand. 

This Old Gal's Pressure Cookbook by by Jill Selkowitz

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Do you have a new pressure cooker you're too scared to use? Now with This Old Gal's Pressure Cooker Cookbook, you can use your Instant Pot, pressure cooker, and slow cooker with ease and confidence!  

Get delicious, easy-to-prepare meals on your table in a fraction of the time! More than a million people have been coming to author Jill Selkowitz's blog, This Old Gal, for her incredibly easy and delicious pressure cooker recipes, and now you can have them at your fingertips with brand new, never-before-seen recipes, tips for getting the most from your pressure cooker, and the quickest, tastiest dishes you can get on the table for your family in no time. 

Want to learn how to make Sweet & Sour Chicken just like your local restaurant? How about Chicken Enchiladas? Beef Stew with Root Vegetables? What about Red Wine Braised Short Ribs, or Tomato Basil Soup? With photographs and step-by-step instructions as well as make-ahead, freezer meals, Jill can show you how to use you pressure cooker to make anything from appetizers, pastas, meats, and desserts - you'll never be at a loss for a delicious dinner! You know your pressure cooker can change your life, so what are you waiting for?

My thoughts-

I spend a lot of time in my kitchen because I enjoy cooking, but I know not everyone feels that way. There are days I don't want to be spending all of my time cooking as well and that is what my Instant Pot is one of my favorite (if not my absolute favorite) of all of my kitchen gadgets. It is convenient and makes cooking nice homemade meals fast and easy! What I love about This Old Gal's Pressure Cookbook is that there is a wide array of recipes all in one place. There are kid friendly recipes, plenty of ethnic recipes (I will be spending a lot of time making the meals from the Indian section!), and even some low carb and gluten free recipes sprinkled throughout. I love that there is a wide variety of different meals, all to be made in a pressure cooker. There are also some basic recipes for things like ghee and yogurt, as well cooking instructions for simple things like boiled eggs and corn on the cob (two of my favorite things to make in my Instant Pot!). I recommend This Old Gal's Pressure Cookbook  to anyone who owns an electric pressure cooker. This book is perfect for both the novice and the advanced user. 

Martina's Kitchen Mix by Martina McBride

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

At home or on the road, Martina McBride is a consummate entertainer who feeds souls through her music, nurturing spirit, and delicious home cooking.

When she’s not on stage or in the studio, country music icon Martina McBride is mos t likely in the kitchen cooking with family and friends. Growing up on a farm in Kansas, Martina began helping in the kitchen at an early age, preparing fresh-from-the-field ingredients at her mother’s side. Meals and stories were shared daily around the table. It’s a tradition she continues with her own family as often as she can because real life is what’s worth celebrating. In this gorgeously photographed cookbook, readers will find more than 100 simple and satisfying recipes that entice with fresh, seasonal ingredients and downhome flavor. Whip up her family favorites like her mother-in-law Flavia’s Deviled Eggs, husband John’s Bacon-Wrapped Olives, or her go-to Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Chipotle Sauce and Slaw. Mix things up in your own kitchen by following Martina’s inspired ideas to feed a handful or a houseful.

My thoughts-

Martina McBride has long been one of my favorite country artists. I was lucky enough to see her sing live in Nashville many years ago and I remember thinking how does such a powerful voice come out of such a tiny human? I was excited to see she had a cookbook and even more excited to see that she has a fantastic ability to put together a good recipe. I would try pretty much anything in this book. What I really loved that many of these were creative recipes I haven't seen before but that they sound completely delicious. I can't wait to get in my kitchen and to try out some of these fantastic recipes! I recommend this book to anyone who loves Martina McBride or who loves to experiment in the kitchen and have a wide array of interesting and tasty recipes at their fingertips.

Simply Bento by Yuko Yagi, Noriko Yura

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

From the creators of Japanese Cooking 101, Simply Bento is a complete collection of nearly 100 delicious and healthy bento recipes for everyone in the family. 

Ready to make lunch quick, easy, and delicious? Traditional Japanese bento boxes are single-portion packed lunches usually made with things like steamed rice, vegetables, and sushi, and they have long been one of the main pillars of Japanese cuisine.

Today, bento boxes have become hugely popular in both the East and West, creating a fusion of incredible flavor combinations. Simply Bento features nearly 100 healthy, delicious bento recipes you can make for every day of the week using a combination of traditional and non-traditional ingredients! Learn the essential components for a bento box, how to assemble your box, and the everyday items you will need in your pantry.

Simply Bento comes to you from the creators of the popular site Japanese Cooking 101, and shows you the finer points of making:10-Minute BentoNoodle BentoLow-Carb BentoVegan BentoSandwich BentoPopular Japanese BentoMake-ahead BentoSo if you're in the mood for Teriyaki Chicken, Ramen, Avocado Pasta Salad, Cauliflower Fried Rice, Falafel, Tempura, or Chicken Nugget for the kids, then Simply Bento has the bento recipes for all of them and more!

My thoughts-

While there have been some improvements to public school lunches since the 80's and 90's while I was in school, I still think they have a long way to go before they get anywhere near the healthy meals I would want my kids buying at school, so my kids take their lunch. Packing kid lunches you can still fall in the trap of unhealthy foods as well, so I am always looking for new ideas on healthy lunch choices. The Japanese food art of bento has always interested me, but I have never found a book like this that breaks down the history and art of it. I love that there are plenty of traditional Japanese options in the book, but that there are also some Americanized ideas as well. There are intricate lunches that might take some time and effort to make, but there are some that would be quicker to throw together. I also love that these are meals my husband and kids would enjoy, and that they are healthy choices for all of them but will still be tasty and flavorful. I recommend this book to anyone looking to up their lunch game or just wanting to learn more about Japanese food culture. 

The Anne of Green Gables Cookbooks by Kate Macdonald

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own.

About the book-

Avonlea beckons in this cookbook inspired by the most famous Canadian children's book, L.M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables. "Kindred spirits" both young and old will enjoy experiencing late-nineteenth-century Prince Edward Island firsthand through the delicious recipes culled from the eight books in the Anne of Green Gables series.

From Poetical Egg Salad Sandwiches, to Anne's Liniment Cake and Diana Barry's Favorite Raspberry Cordial, these recipes are easy to prepare and delicious to serve up any day, on a weekend, or for special occasions! With full-color photography, whimsical illustrations, and quotes and anecdotes from the books, get ready to be immersed in Anne Shirley's world.

My thoughts-

The cover art on this cookbook is so beautiful, and so very Anne, I couldn't resist. The cookbook is filled with treats mentioned in the Anne of Green Gables series, which are like a step back in time, but still will hold up today. For fans of Anne Shirley, this is a must have. The cookbook is short but filled with beautiful pictures and illustrations and will help you relive some of the food moments from such a wonderful book series.

Holiday Cookies by Elizabeth der Nederlanden (Cookbook Review)

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own.

About the book-

From Icebox Pinwheel Cookies to Red-and-White Meringue Kisses to Apple Cider Caramels, find new inspiration for the best of seasonal baking with Holiday Cookies. 
This instant holiday classic is packed with 50 recipes, each gorgeously photographed and meticulously tested, along with dozens of decorating and packaging ideas. Filled with reimagined favorites like Giant Molasses Spice Cookies and Hazelnut Sandwich Cookies; confections like Peppermint Bark, Smoked Almond and Cacao Nib Brittle, and Dark Chocolate–Hazelnut Fudge; and detailed instructions for gorgeous gingerbread houses, cookie place cards, and edible ornaments, this is a cookie book like no other. Because the recipes are easy to scale up or down, Holiday Cookies is perfect for cookie exchanges, gift-giving, and just enjoying throughout the season. From a veteran baker and recipe developer, each cookie in this collection is guaranteed to be a stand-out, and destined to become your new Christmas classic.

My thoughts-

It has been a long time since I have been giddy over a good cookbook. I absolutely love the holidays. I love everything about the holiday season, and since I love to be in the kitchen, baking is a big part of that. I thought I had seen every Christmas cookie imaginable, and there are definitely some more traditional cookies like gingerbread men, thumb print cookies, and Mexican wedding cookies, but there are also plenty of gourmet -would have never thought of- recipes within as well such as the saffron biscotti and glazed eggnog madeleines. I also really loved that there is a section for holiday cookies from around the world. I am so excited to use this book to create beautiful boxes of gourmet Christmas cookies for my friends and family this holiday season!