Ad Hoc at Home
by Thomas Keller
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Book Reviews of Ad Hoc at Home
Book Review: more than just a great chef...
Summary: 5 Stars
We all know that Thomas Keller is a great chef. It wasn't until I saw him on an episode of Bourdain's 'No Reservations' that I discovered that he is an amazing teacher (and a heck of a nice guy). While visiting a Barnes and Noble, my husband and I flipped through this book and were amazed at the wealth of information contained in it as well as the manner in which it's presented. We're not pro chefs, but by no means are we novices. I own (and have read, cover to cover) McGee and several others. I only say that in order to say this- no matter your level of expertise, Ad Hoc at Home has something in it for you- don't fear boredom bc of the simplicity of concept.
Oh, and lest you think I'm writing this review based on a bookstore visit, I bought it as a birthday present for my husband.
Book Review: Must have for all cooks
Summary: 5 Stars
I received this cook book for my birthday and have to say I love it. Have made two recipes so far (fried chicken and braised chicken thighs) both were easy to follow and fantastic. I've read through much of the book already scanning and reading most of the recipes. It is very easy to follow, has a great mix of short and simple recipes combined with some more intricate ones. The pictures are beautiful, crisp and self descriptive. I have a few dozen cookbooks and think this will become one of my 'go to' books just like How to Cook Everything/Bittman, Joy, and full collection of Cook's Illustrated hard bound. I've eaten at Ad Hoc and can't wait to try those menu items at home now. Whether you are a basic or advanced cook I'd highly recommend this book for pleasure of reading and great recipes.Book Review: If you're going to own one Keller book...
Summary: 5 Stars
True to Keller form, this is a big, beautiful book. It is, though, the most practical of the bunch. It is filled with a multitude of main courses, sides, sauces, garnishes and more - all designed to be done in the home kitchen. There are many dishes that will be delicious, but more importantly, they are reasonable. That can not be said about most of the dishes in French Laundry or Bouchon (the reasonable part that is).
Unlike the other books, Keller's obsessive approach to detail and technique are truly beneficial to the everyday cook. He provides an array of small tips throughout the book that will help the reader put out better food. Most importantly, it is all practical - no labor intensive, over complicated fussiness, just homestyle comfort food done at its best.
Book Review: Cooking like the master at home
Summary: 5 Stars
I am a personal chef, therefore I am always looking for new recipes and different ways of doing things. I especially am enjoying Keller's vegetable recipes and his salad combinations are nice and simple. The crabcakes were a huge success with a client. The only problem I find is most recipes have another recipe within them that has a preparation of some ingredients that needs to be made a few days ahead of time and then added. I miss out this ingredient and improvise because as a personal chef I have many different clients with different food tastes. it is a waste of time and ingredients to be making up these special ingredients. So far none of the recipes have suffered in flavor with the improvisation. I am pleased to be learning from this bookBook Review: AD Hoc- get bouchon elegance at home
Summary: 5 Stars
Simpleton Review to follow: Ever been to Bouchon? Perhaps you live too far away? Do like pretty pictures? (I do!) This book gives you the basics of quasi french at home cooking. A standard that Keller has developed into simultaneous Michelin stars at two restaurants - a feat only he has accomplished. Ad-Hoc gives you the primary building stones to replicate that country bistro goodness at home. Instructions and diagrams are easy to follow, the book flows, teaching you how to build complexity from the basics up. Think of it as a primer, prepping u for bigger and better things. Think of your favorite grandparent finally giving you the secret recipes that you grew up with. Think of buying it- cause it's as good as those meals you remember!