French Country Cooking

by Elizabeth David
French Country Cooking cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Cookbooks / Food Writing
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Technical
  • ID: 128
  • Added: 2025-09-02
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9781405917353
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2013-12-06
  • Formats: 86
  • Reviews: 3

French Country Cooking - first published in 1951 - is filled with Elizabeth David's authentic recipes drawn from across the regions of France. 'Her books are stunningly well written ... full of history and anecdote' Observer Showing how each area has a particular and unique flavour for its foods, derived as they are from local ingredients, Elizabeth David explores the astonishing diversity of French cuisine. Her recipes range from the primitive pheasant soup of the Basque country to the refined Burgundian dish of hare with cream sauce and chestnut puree. French Country Cooking is Elizabeth David's rich and enticing cookbook that will delight and inspire cooks everywhere. Elizabeth David (1913-1992) is the woman who changed the face of British cooking. Having travelled widely during the Second World War, she introduced post-war Britain to the sun-drenched delights of the Mediterranean and her recipes brought new flavours and aromas into kitchens across Britain. After her classic first book Mediterranean Food followed more bestsellers, including French Country Cooking, Summer Cooking, French Provincial Cooking, Italian Food, Elizabeth David's Christmas and At Elizabeth David's Table.

Reviews
goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-09-18
inspiring 4.50

The reviewer explores Elizabeth David's 'Summer Cooking,' highlighting her influence on British cuisine and her emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. They recreate a picnic menu inspired by David's recipes, appreciating her casual yet refined approach to cooking.

The reviewer delves into Elizabeth David's 'Summer Cooking,' noting her significant impact on British food culture post-World War II. David's focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple preparations is celebrated, as the reviewer attempts to recreate a picnic menu from her recipes. The reviewer appreciates David's ability to make the best of limited ingredients and her love for casual, yet elegant, dining experiences. The picnic, inspired by David's suggestions, includes a variety of fresh market ingredients and traditional dishes like smoked trout and rabbit terrine. The reviewer finds David's approach timeless and relevant, even in contemporary food culture.

Quick quotes

    David abhorred the arty and artificial, kept her private life to herself, and made concessions to her audience only when it suited her values.

    Much of David’s genius was in knowing when to stop. The best ingredients need little enhancement.

    Most people involved in contemporary food culture agree that casual, fresh, and seasonal is a wonderful way to eat.

dauntbooks.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-09-18
excellent 4.50

The reviewer praises Elizabeth David's French Country Cooking as a timeless classic that captures the essence of French provincial cooking. They appreciate the book's focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple, flavorful dishes, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced cooks.

Elizabeth David's French Country Cooking is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time. The reviewer highlights how the book beautifully captures the rustic charm and simplicity of French provincial cooking. David's emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and straightforward techniques makes the recipes accessible and inspiring. The reviewer notes that the book is not just a collection of recipes but a cultural journey through the French countryside, offering insights into the traditions and lifestyle of the region. For those looking to bring a taste of France into their kitchen, this book is a treasure trove of delicious and authentic dishes. The reviewer also appreciates the timeless quality of the book, which remains relevant and useful even decades after its initial publication.

Quick quotes

    The book is a classic for a reason, capturing the essence of French provincial cooking with simplicity and elegance.

    David's recipes are not just about food; they are about the culture and traditions of the French countryside.

    This book is a must-have for anyone who loves cooking and wants to explore the rich flavors of France.

fivebooks.com · Unknown · 2025-09-18
nostalgic 4.00

The reviewer inherited this book from their mother and decided to read it after seeing a reference to a similar book in an essay by Nora Ephron. They found the book to be a way of connecting with their late mother and appreciated the detailed equipment list and recommendations.

The reviewer inherited this book from their mother, who passed away in 1993, and it had been sitting unopened on their shelf for many years. Inspired by an essay by Nora Ephron mentioning a similar French cookbook, they decided to read French Country Cooking as a way to connect with their mother's memory. The book begins with a chapter on essential kitchen equipment, which the reviewer found particularly interesting as they had inherited a long-handled copper sauté pan from their mother. The detailed recommendations and historical context provided by Elizabeth David added to the reviewer's appreciation of the book.

Quick quotes

    I inherited this book from my mother, who died in 1993; It has sat on my shelf unopened all of these years.

    I decided to read it based on reading “My Cookbook Crushes”, an essay by the great Nora Ephron, republished in a recent issue of The New Yorker.

    Ms. David begins the book with a chapter listing the equipment one must have in one’s kitchen.

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