In the first of a new series celebrating vintage books from our kitchen shelves, Nigel Slater introduces his favourite cookbook
In the kitchen, next to the stove, is a short row of cookery books. Their spines are snapped or, in a couple of cases, missing entirely. Each appears to be held together by love and the splatters of food that have gathered on their pages while I cook – the ghosts of dishes made and meals enjoyed.
I love each and every one of these books dearly. The choice is, of course, entirely personal. Their purpose is, generally, not to inform or instruct but simply to offer suggestions for something good to eat. A dish the author feels I might like to make for myself or my loved ones. I value these books more than any others, for their inspiration, their warmth and their friendly voices.
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