I remember first watching Mary Berry in 'The Great British Bake Off' and I loved her immediately. It's hard to explain why - I think it's because she reminds me of both my Granny (my dad's mum) and my Nana (my mum's mum). The way she cooks and the methods she uses are how both my grandparents cooked and it was partly how they taught my brother and me when we were growing up. I suppose you could say she is from 'their time' too.
I was in Asda a couple of months ago and I was in the book aisle and I saw her new book: Mary Berry 'Foolproof Cooking'. I flicked through and saw how simple and easy the recipes were and popped it into my trolley. It was £12 so I thought that was a great deal! I didn't realise at the time that her show to accompany the book was about to start a week later.
Firstly I'd like to say that in terms of presentation the book is beautiful - the pictures are light, crisp and clear. The book is hardback and very good quality paper has been used and I love books like this (is that sad?!).
The recipes are very simple and easy and she explains as if she was teaching someone who has never cooked before. She gives simple instructions and little hints and tips - like not to use a non-stick pan when making caramel as it won't go that wonderful golden brown colour.
The book also contains thorough instructions on how to make certain products that seem really hard and daunting - like shortcrust pastry or filo pastry and gives hints and tips so everything turns out the way you want it. Some of the tips may seem stupid or pointless but it can really have an effect on the outcome of the finished recipe.
The book also contains ideas on what Mary thinks you should have in your store cupboard - such as the basic like flour, sugar, oats, dried fruit etc and then she goes into more deeper detail for more complicated dishes.
I have already made a few recipes from the book and they all turned out really well. I made Latte Pannacotta with Peanut Brittle which you can check out HERE if you are interested. Let me know what you think - they were very easy to make and they tasted amazing - and this is coming from someone who isn't too keen on coffee.
All in all a really good book and one I'd recommend to anyone who is new to cooking or who is looking for little tips to add to their expanding knowledge. Let me know in the comments below if you've ever bought or got one of Mary's books - I know she has lots!!
