I’m all over “The Complete America’s Test Kitchen TV Show Cookbook-2002-2014”. I’m so impressed with it after trying several different recipes that I bought extra copies for my daughter as well as for nephew & nieces who also love preparing & eating good food. They refer to it either as their “Bible” or the “New Testament” from one who is already an experienced cook with natural talents. These books are strong in a wide range of recipes from all over the world. Just try the “Hot & Sour Soup” recipe & if you’ve had a version of this soup that you’ve thought was The Real Deal- you will love their version. I also love their recommended substitutions for rare ingredients. Their Test Kitchen is also great when it comes to kitchen appliances, ingredients, & tools. You won’t regret ordering any of their cookbooks. There’s something for the beginner to the more advanced home cook.

I’m not a big baker, but I picked up (many years ago, in the early 1990’s) one of Canadian Living BEST series of books called “Muffins and More”, and I ADORE it! In addition to lots of individual recipes, they have 2 recipes for Master Mixes — one being a basic muffin mix, the other being an oatmeal cookie mix. Each master mix makes about 4 batches, and each has themini-recipes, the things you can add to make the item differently (ie banana chocolate chip muffins or chocolate chip oatmeal cookies), using 2.75 cups of the master mix. I thought it was a BRILLIANT idea and I have referred to that book MANY times through the years! Neighbours have LOVED getting warm muffins or cookies when I’ve popped by to give them some as a welcome or a thank you for snowblowing my walks through the winter.
Speaking of winter — I hope it will be over soon! I’m looking forward to A & K’s April articles!