Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★★ (4.8/5)
Genre: Cookbook, British Cuisine, Food & Drink

Book Review:
British pub food has a reputation that swings between two extremes: on one hand, the classic, comforting, and deeply satisfying; on the other, the mediocre and forgettable. Tom Kerridge's ''Proper Pub Food'' is a glorious argument for the first category. This book is a masterclass in taking the hearty, robust dishes of the British pub and elevating them to something truly special, all while keeping them achievable for the home cook. It's a must-have for anyone who loves good food.

Kerridge is not just any chef; he's a Michelin-starred phenomenon who has redefined what pub food can be. His approach is both reverent and inventive. He respects the classics—fish and chips, steak and ale pie, a proper Sunday roast—but he's not afraid to add a clever twist that takes the dish from great to unforgettable. The recipes are clear, detailed, and written with the home cook in mind. He demystifies techniques and explains why certain steps matter, making you feel like you have a world-class chef guiding you in your own kitchen.

The book is beautiful to look at, with photography that will make your mouth water. But it's not just about looks; it's about substance. With over 130 recipes, there's enough here to keep you cooking for years. From starters and snacks to mains, sides, and desserts, it covers everything you need to create a full pub experience at home.

Kerridge's enthusiasm is infectious. His mission, as he states in the introduction, is to show how ''robust, delicious, interesting, good-looking dishes'' are within everyone's reach. And he succeeds. ''Proper Pub Food'' is more than a cookbook; it's an invitation to gather friends and family around the table and share in the simple, profound pleasure of a truly great meal. Highly recommended.