'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Saturday 3 September 2011

Review: My Daddy Cooks

Video blogger turned author Nick Coffer and his adorable son Archie have launched their very own hardcover cookbook – a spin-off of their popular video blog. Foodie dad Nick shares over 100 recipes from basics to simple but exotic concoctions with an international flavour.

After spending some time in France in his twenties, this stay-at-home dad has created recipes that are not only do-able, they are surprisingly varied and sophisticated; and it’s easy to see the French influence.

Beginning with a warm introduction, the book takes readers through the story behind the blog and the book. We even get a peek inside Nick's kitchen cupboards before launching into the first chapter – Beyond Toast – which showcases some pretty delectable breakfast and brunch treats like Fruity Popovers, Oven Baked French Toast, Baked Eggs in Ham Cups and Fruit Compote, Yoghurt and Granola Glasses.

Lighter Bites include simple meals for lunch or a hearty snack. There’s Crispy Duck Pancakes, Savoury Brittany Pancakes, Sloppy Joe Beef Buns and Lamb Kofta Pittas with Pomegranate Salas, making the international flavour tastily clear.

Ensuing chapters include cooking the classics, wok on the wild side, foolproof grills and bakes, and of curse – puds, treats and sweets. The recipes are simply enough to create with youngsters in a supervised setting, and the variety is truly tempting, but what I love most about this cookbook is the warm family feel that truly makes you feel like you’re popping over for dinner at the Coffer house.

And who wouldn’t adore a meal put together with the aid of that sweet little Archie? Food for real families, not those found in a lifestyle book.

See the blog at MyDaddyCooks.com


Title: My Daddy Cooks
Author/Illustrator: Nick Coffer
Publisher: Hachette, $39.95 RRP
Publication Date: 12 July 2011
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9781444713718
For ages: 4+
Type: Cookbook