XX Dinners {a Review}

Twenty Dinners is a book written by Chris Taylor and Ithai Schori with photography by Nicole Franzen. I didn’t really know anything about this book when it arrived, but as soon as I started reading the introduction I was sucked in. I love the approach of the Chris and Ithai, whose cooking approach is to not cook for friends, but with friends. Professional chefs, they are not, but they are two guys that love to come together with friends, open a bottle of wine while creating amazing meals. Don’t we all enjoy doing that from time to time? I know Rob and I love doing that when we make his Great Gramma’s homemade pasta recipe. The authors share recipes and techniques that make many cooking skills that sound complicated easy.

This book is divided into 4 main chapters; Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer with 2 more sections that include techniques, terms, advice, tools, and ingredients. There are many pictures throughout the book. The pages of the book are non-glossy which I think goes perfectly with the style of photos and the feel of the book. Lillie’s Sticky Toffee Pudding on p. 137 is going to the top of my dessert list. The Peach Porch Punch on p. 162 sounds delicious along with Tal’s Potato Salad on p. 203. I love that the authors are down to earth, real people who just enjoy cooking. However, I found that many of the recipes would be beyond something you’d make everyday. For example; Duck Confit p. 105, Lavender-Infused Olive Oil-Poached Cod. Some of the ingredients are not ones I use often, so I’m not sure how practical this cookbook would be for many.

I am thankful for Blogging for Books who sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.