Cookbook Distractions

I am currently in intense study mode for the last level of a certification I've been pursuing for years now; the exam is the CFA, and it has 3 levels of curriculum.  Each level's exam is offered only once a year.  Needless to say, it's a long road!  Last year, during study breaks, I ordered DIY and craft book after book, which of course just served to torture me in a corner as I had to focus my attention elsewhere.  

This year, the addiction has manifested itself in the form of ordering new cookbooks (Amazon Prime membership is such an enabler!).  I just received my order of Ad Hoc at Home, a Thomas Keller (of French Laundry and Bouchon fame) cookbook based on his more casual restaurant, Ad Hoc.  Just skimming through the book (since I should be studying!), I can already tell it will provide a real education to cooking technique along with delicious recipes.  

I may just find the time to try a few recipes before the test rolls around on June 2nd... :-)

Baking Bible

One of my dearest friends bought me Chez Panisse Desserts by Lindsey Remolif Shere for my birthday, and it just arrived on my doorstep.  I can already tell this is going to be my baking bible for life.  The beautifully written preface by Alice Waters will inspire and excite you to dig deep into this treasure.   The book itself is simple and sweet, mostly text with sporadic penciled sketches.  It feels like an old favorite paperback novel telling beautiful stories of baking lovely food from the heart.  Its recipes are designed to complement seasonal menus and are arranged in the book around their ingredients.

Chez Panisse first opened its doors in 1971  and is a well known restaurant in Berkeley (one of my favorite cities) which has always focused on local, organic, and seasonal foods.

From what I understand based on reading many reviews, the ice cream recipes are unparalleled - it may finally be time to invest in an ice cream machine...