Mary Berry’s Cookery Course

Established Cookery Writer

Mary Berry has been writing cookery books since 1970 and has developed a reputation as a reliable, sensible cook.

She has of course sprung to more fame in the recent Bake Off programmes on television. She has written many cookery books, one of which is in my top 5 Favourite cookery books

When Mary Berry explains how to do something you know you on solid ground – and that your victoria sponge will be just perfect!

Mary Berry’s Cookery Course
is an updated version of her original one published in 1991. The lady herself says in the introduction that the book is full of classic recipes for both the experienced and beginner home cook.

Clear And Reliable Cooking Advice

Right from the start when you open it it is clearly presented and you feel on safe ground. This is simple, straightforward cooking.

The basic equipment list is not too long, and it is unfussy. There aren’t any ingredients that you haven’t heard of, nor any long difficult techniques.

There is a Techniques Finder for preparing food and basic cooking methods at the beginning of the book referencing recipes where the instructions can be found, such as making pastry, chopping a leek or cooking lamb and many basic preparation and cooking guides.

Easy To Follow Recipes

The recipes are all easy to follow from simple soups, boiling and scrambling eggs, fish pie, roast meats, stews and pasta sauces through to scones, muffins and of course the victoria sponge. Desserts are classics such as Plum Crumble, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Trifle and Lemon Tart

None of the ingredients lists are over long and the Vegetable Curry that I cooked but adapted slightly, only has garam masala and ginger as flavourings – not the long list of spices you might expect from such a recipe.

The book is not a book for vegetarians – most of the vegetable dishes are intended as side dishes featuring such dishes as Potato Dauphinoise. It is good for simple starters, standard meat and fish meals, vegetable side dishes, baking and desserts. It equips the reader with a foundation of excellent cooking skills.

Nor is it not for the adventureous cook looking for exciting new recipes with new ingredients – unless they have never cooked these standard, traditional recipes

A Gift For The Beginner Or The Experienced

This book would make an ideal gift for a beginner cook, perhaps as a wedding present or to someone moving into their first home. Experienced cooks will love to read this for its solid advice and to increase their understanding and improve their skills. Although there may be little really new to an expereinced cook, they will enjoy being in the safe hands of Mary Berry and will discover some great tip or slightly different way of doing things.

I will enjoy having this book on the book shelf and regularly refering to it for some expert advice and inspiration for recipes.

Find out more about the book and buy it here.

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