Television chefs like Delia Smith and Jamie Oliver have produced some eye-catching food. Part of their appeal is to make the presentation and serving look easy. Yet many of their dishes are based on classic recipes. The food may be similar to what was eaten in the past but the way it is brought to the table couldn't be more different.
The Rare Books room at the British Library has a wonderful collection of old cookery books and a surprising number of facts. Mrs. Beeton, for example, wasn't an elderly lady - she died at the age of 28 and compiled her famous book of household management while living in a large house with servants in Hatch End, Middlesex.
'The Dinner Question' or 'How to Dine Well and Economically' was written in 1860 by Tabitha Tickletooth. The author was, in fact, an actor called Charles Selby. The esteemed Alan Davidson who compiled The Oxford Companion to Food said the book 'combined a talent for wit with practicality in the kitchen, a scientific approach to cooking and prowess as a scholar.'
The very best way to preserve the good old favourites is to write down the recipes from your own parents or grandparents if they are alive. These traditional recipes use wholesome ingredients as ready made short cuts were not available.
Keep them for your future grandchildren....... they will always appreciate it!
Happy cooking
Denise Phillips
www.jewishcookery.com
Posted by: Denise Phillips | November 06, 2008 at 08:44 AM