The essential New York Times cookbook The recipes of record

Just in time for anyone who has been searching for new recipes comes an updated 10th anniversary edition of The Essential New York Times Cookbook. Edited once again by Hesser, this collection covers all manners of foods, techniques, and trends. As in the original, recipes are arranged chronologically within their sections, which makes it especially fun to browse and learn. Each section begins with a brief introduction and history, complete with time lines on the course or type of food, as well as a breakout of recipes by category to facilitate the more directed user. Each recipe includes informative notes regarding the history or appeal of the dish, as well as cooking notes from Hesser and her testers. An excellent feature is the inclusion of serving suggestions from other recipes within the book. The new edition has swapped out 50 recipes; most of the additions are from the last 10 years, and the focus is more on home cooking than recreating fancy restaurant dishes. Many recipes are ones that Hesser repeatedly cooks at home; there is also a greater emphasis on a diversity of cuisines and more metric measurements. VERDICT An excellent cookbook that will keep even the most accomplished cook busy and happy.--Devon Thomas, Chelsea, MI