Taste : A New Way to Cook

Discover the revolutionary approach to cooking with Sybil Kapoor's "Taste: A New Way to Cook." This isn't just another cookbook; it's a culinary education that empowers you to create extraordinary dishes by understanding the fundamental building blocks of flavor. Kapoor deconstructs the art of cooking, revealing the secrets behind achieving perfect harmony in every bite through the masterful manipulation of the five basic tastes: sweet, sour, bitter, salt, and umami. Forget rigid recipes and restrictive techniques. "Taste" guides you on a gastronomic journey, exploring each taste in dedicated chapters. You'll begin with simple recipes that showcase the interplay between each taste and its counterparts, gradually progressing to more complex and nuanced dishes. Imagine starting with refreshing sour drinks and soups, then moving on to sophisticated mains that expertly balance sweet, sour, bitter, salt and umami elements for a symphony of flavors. Kapoor, a celebrated food writer known for her insightful and approachable style, demystifies the often-intimidating world of cooking. She emphasizes intuition and understanding over strict adherence to recipes, allowing you to develop your palate and create dishes that truly reflect your personal taste. "Taste" is about empowering you to become a confident and creative cook. The book goes beyond the core five tastes, delving into the transformative power of flavors like chilli, paprika, mint, saffron, rosewater, and vanilla pod. Kapoor provides recipes that showcase how these ingredients can elevate and alter our perception of taste, adding depth and complexity to your culinary creations. Learn how to use dried Kashmiri chillies to add a smoky heat, or how a touch of rosewater can impart a delicate floral aroma. Published by Mitchell Beazley in 2003, this hardcover edition is a beautiful and practical addition to any kitchen. While some might consider the focus on basic tastes fundamental, Kapoor's clear explanations and inventive recipes offer a fresh perspective even for experienced cooks. It is more than just a collection of recipes; it's a guide to understanding and mastering the art of flavor, enabling you to create delicious and memorable meals with confidence. If you crave more than just following instructions and wish to truly *understand* how flavours work together, "Taste" will transform your approach to cooking. This book, at 208 pages, provides a thorough and complete overview of cooking from the perspective of taste and how to wield it.