Carolyn Federman

New Favorites for New Cooks looks cute and fun, laid back and helpful. The recipes are easy popular favorites, and cooking techniques are explained effectively and sometimes whimsically.

Some of the dishes look difficult, but are easily achievable, and will boost a young cook's confidence from all the oohs and ahhs they hear when they serve Summer Rolls With Peanut Sauce, or Three Minute Guacamole With Fresh Chips. These are dishes that they will want to cook AND eat.

The book is filled with helpful tips that beginning cooks need to know, but might not know are important to effective recipe completion. Importance of pan size, knife skills, don't let the garlic get too browned, etc.

One negative, I did not like the drink section, per personal preference that we should not drink our calories, we should eat our calories. I grew up with water, and I think that is the best beverage for children. The drink recipes could be used for special occasions, but I think they are excessive for everyday use.

Recommended for an older child or teen who wants to start cooking on their own, or who needs help with techniques and some good ideas for dishes.


*eARC Netgalley*… (plus d'informations)