Book review

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Cooking Renaissance Italian Food, 51 Redacted Recipes from 1549 Banchetti by Christoforo Messisbugo

This book proves to be an invaluable resource for individuals venturing into period cooking, presenting original recipes in both their original language and translated forms. However, a notable observation is that the author’s redactions tend to incorporate a more contemporary approach, departing from a strict adherence to period cooking methods. An illustrative example is the recommendation to use foil as a lid instead of advocating for a historically accurate practice, such as sealing the chosen modern cooking vessel with a simple flour and water dough. While the redactions align effectively with the translations, there exists an opportunity for the author to explore and suggest more authentic period cooking techniques.

Over all Period recipes: B+ for use of various recipes.

Ease for Those new to Period cooking: A+. Helpful with suggested measurements and cooking tips.

January 12, 2024 | No comments

The Sweets of Araby

book cover

 

This book took a little to warm up to.  It’s not that the recipes aren’t good (or period) but the presentation is far more modern then I am use to.  The original translations with documentation is on the side in a very cute keyhole panel and the stories that accompany them are cute.  This book was made for a modern day cook.

If you want a book on medieval Middle Eastern sweets this is a very good book.  Multiple recipes from multiple sources with original recipes and redactions for those who need.  The stories are also helpful but unknown if truly historic or…  A for period recipes and a B+ only because it’s cutsy.  Yes I get to call a book cutsy!  It’s in the rules…some where.

August 23, 2014 | No comments