New to Cooking: Simple skills and great recipes for the first-time cook

Unlock your culinary potential with "New to Cooking: Simple skills and great recipes for the first-time cook," by renowned cookery teacher and TV chef Lesley Waters. This isn't just another cookbook; it's your personal guide to confident and joyful cooking, designed specifically for beginners and those who feel intimidated by the kitchen. Forget complicated techniques and hours spent slaving over the stove Lesley Waters champions simple, liberating cooking that fits into your busy lifestyle. This beautifully presented hardcover edition, published by Ryland Peters & Small, serves as a comprehensive foundation for anyone eager to learn to cook. Waters understands that starting from scratch can be daunting, which is why she expertly breaks down essential cooking principles and skills into easily digestible steps. "New to Cooking" begins by equipping you with the knowledge needed before you even turn on the stove. You'll discover a curated list of must-have utensils that won't break the bank, along with essential pantry ingredients that form the building blocks of countless delicious meals. Waters doesn't assume any prior knowledge, patiently guiding you through fundamental techniques like boiling, poaching, steaming, microwaving, frying, braising, roasting, and baking. Each technique is explained clearly and concisely, empowering you to master the basics with confidence. But this book is more than just technical instruction; it's about igniting a passion for food. Once you've grasped the fundamental skills, you'll transition into a delightful array of recipes, carefully chosen to showcase your newfound abilities. From quick and satisfying weekday dinners for one to impressive meals perfect for entertaining friends, "New to Cooking" offers a diverse selection to suit every occasion. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with dishes like vibrant Tomato Tapenade Salad, hearty Rich Red Bell Pepper and Bean Soup, flavorful Mediterranean Fish Stew, classic Coq au Vin, comforting Mushroom, Leek and Thyme Puff Pies, decadent Hot Whisky Pancakes with Raspberries, and refreshing Coconut and Lime Ice Cream. Each recipe is presented with clear instructions and helpful tips, ensuring success even for the most novice cook. Lesley Waters' warm and encouraging voice shines through every page, making you feel like you have a personal instructor by your side. Her emphasis on simple, fresh ingredients and uncomplicated methods demystifies the cooking process, transforming it from a chore into a rewarding and enjoyable experience. If you're ready to embark on a culinary adventure and discover the joy of creating delicious meals from scratch, "New to Cooking" is the perfect starting point. Let Lesley Waters be your guide, and unlock a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you're a student, a busy professional, or simply someone who wants to learn to cook, this book will empower you to create flavorful, satisfying meals with confidence and ease. This Reprint edition from 2013 is a timeless classic, perfect for anyone starting their culinary journey.