Starred review from October 1, 2024
Ottolenghi, beloved chef and author of seven NYT-bestselling cookbooks, has written (with frequent collaborators Helen Goh, Verena Lochmuller, and Tara Wigley), a book that exemplifies and explores the meaning of comfort food, offering nostalgia, convenience, indulgence, and nurturing. The introduction sets the stage and mood for the mouth-watering and thoughtful delights, presented in Ottolenghi's well-known elevated approach and reassuring style. The book is divided into sections that are tightly focused, starting with eggs (featuring delights including Dutch baby with roasted tomatoes) and moving on to tantalizing breads, dishes with vegetables, main dishes featuring meat and poultry, pasta (Bolognese for all!), and scrumptious desserts (featuring a chocolate-ripple fridge cake to die for). Each recipe is introduced with an emphasis on comfort. The directions are easy to follow, and although the dishes require a bit of extra effort, all are more than worthwhile. The photography, unsurprisingly, is stellar and inviting, begging home cooks to dive in and create. A feast for the eyes along with the heart, mind, and belly. VERDICT This beautiful book ties hunger, taste, connection, and community together; it will be a welcome addition to all collections.--Ron Block
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