The Paris Cookbook - Hardcover

Wells, Patricia

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0060184698 ISBN 13: 9780060184698

Publisher: William Morrow Cookbooks, 2002

Synopsis

When acclaimed cookbook author Patricia Wells moved to Paris in 1980, she had no idea it would be "for good." In the two decades since, she has become one of the world's most beloved food writers, sharing her deep passion for her adopted home and teaching millions of Americans how to cook real French food.

In this new book, Patricia leads readers on a fascinating culinary exploration of the City of Moveable Feasts. Both a recipe book and a gastronomic guide, The Paris Cookbook covers all facets of the city's dynamic food scene, from the three-star cuisine of France's top chefs, to traditional bistro favorites, to the prized dishes of cheese-makers, market vendors, and home cooks. Gathered over the years, the 150 recipes in this book represent the very best of Parisian cooking: a simple yet decadent creamy white bean soup from famed chef Joël Robuchon; an effortless seared veal flank steak from Patricia's neighborhood butcher; the ultimate chocolate mousse from La Maison du Chocolat; and much more. In her trademark style, Patricia explains each dish clearly and completely, providing readers with helpful cooking secrets, wine accompaniments, and métro directions to each featured restaurant, café, and market.

Filled with gorgeous black-and white photographs and Patricia's own personal stories, The Paris Cookbook offers an unparalleled taste of France's culinary capital. You may not be able to visit Paris, but this book will bring its many charms home to your table.

About this title

Review:

American-born Paris dweller Patricia Wells has turned her love of French food into a remarkable series of culinary works. The Paris Cookbook reflects that affection and her familiarity with the Paris food scene, offering 150 of its best recipes. From famed chef Joël Robuchon's sublime Creamy White Bean Soup to a hearty flank steak dish courtesy of Wells's butcher; from bistro Chez Benoit's Asparagus and Green Bean Salad to confectioner La Maison du Chocolate's Bittersweet Chocolate Mousse, the book abounds in wonderful food. Wells's achievement, here as elsewhere, is to make her recipes genuinely accessible to the average cook; well-chosen and lucidly written, they invite even the hesitant into the kitchen with the promise of great eating.

Following the courses of a typical Parisian meal, from appetizers through desserts, the book presents three-star dishes like Arpège Eggs with Maple Syrup, as well as more humble fare, including an exemplary Lemon Chicken and socca, the delicious Provençale pancakes. A section on pasta, rice, beans, and grains offers such standouts as Flora's Polenta Fries. Desserts also receive their due with delights like Fresh Fig and Almond Gratin. Illustrated with photos that evoke Parisian life at the market and at the table, and containing a wealth of tips and helpful information, wine recommendations, plus the addresses of the dining spots mentioned, the book is a worthy addition to Wells's dependable store of cooking guides. --Arthur Boehm

About the Author:

Patricia Wells is a journalist, author, and teacher who runs the popular cooking school At Home with Patricia Wells in Paris and Provence. She has won four James Beard Awards and the French government has honored her as a Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, recognizing her contribution to French culture. A former New York Times reporter, she is the only foreigner and the only woman to serve as restaurant critic for a major French publication, L'Express. She served as the global restaurant critic for the International Herald Tribune for more than twenty-five years. She lives in Paris and Provence with her husband, Walter Wells.

About this edition

• Publisher: William Morrow Cookbooks
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 0060184698
• ISBN 13: 9780060184698
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 336