I have to start out by saying that this is a truly exceptional cookbook. That's a very heavy recommendation. The only flaw, and you really can't even call it a flaw, is that the book lacks a dessert section, but there are so many great dessert books out there, that's an easy problem to fix. There are hundreds of wonderful recipes for simple, yet delicious foods, the way we like to eat in the nineties. There are soups, sandwiches, pizzas, pastas, main courses, vegetables, sauces, meats and seafood.
Recipes range from the ethnically authentic to nouvelle cuisine.
Instructions are clear and precise, easy to follow and go into detailed explanations into why certain techniques and ingredients are preferred. That attention to detail shows in this book, for as much as it is about recipes, it's about quality food and ingredients. You'll learn what to look for when shopping and why. I admit that I am a cookbook junkie. If, however, I wanted to pare down my collection, or if someone asked for a recommendation of a good all purpose everyday cookbook, this is the one I would recommend without hesitation.