The Homemaker's Magazine Cookbook

Joan McGrath is a Toronto Board of Education library consultant.

This exceptionally handsome cookbook, assembled by the editors of Homemaker’s Magazine, is a compendium of favorite Canadian recipes, and that, these days, means a medley of dishes from all over the world. The once-drab national cuisine has been enhanced by tempting and attractive foods introduced by new Canadians and by well-travelled natives; this collection combines both the old and new family choices.

Some special features include a thorough discussion of cookware of all sorts, with advice as to which items are necessary for a well-equipped small kitchen as well as for a large or specialized one; different cookware materials such as aluminum and copper, and the pros and cons for use of each; the proper size of utensil required for various purposes, etc. In addition, there is a helpful explanation of the uses and proper storage of various herbs and spices, an entertainment guide complete with 12 seasonal menus, a list of substitutes for standard ingredients, a special listing of dishes that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, a chart on the seasonal availability of Canadian fresh fruit and vegetables, and a metric conversion table. Recipe sections include appetizers; breads and sandwiches; cakes and cookies; desserts; eggs and cheese; fish and seafood; meat; pasta, rice and grain; pastries; poultry and game; preserves; salads; soups; and vegetables. Special mention must be made of the gorgeous color photography, guaranteed to make the reader’s mouth water. There is a listing of the dishes illustrated as well as a general index.