She doesn't muck about, she doesn't lecture (like Delia) and she sticks to the point. There are nice big pictures to show you what it'll look like at the end and there is a glossary at the back and a kit list. If you lack confidence in the kitchen or want a bible of dinner party savers then this is the book for you.

Highly recommended - I shall be buying her other books.


Stylish and mouthwatering   June 21, 2004
 10 out of 11 found this review helpful

This book is a joy to look at with stylish, mouthwatering pictures accompanying every recipe. But it is also a joy to use with simple, clear instructions and lots of hints and tips. For novice cooks, it gives you the confidence to try dishes which look impressive but are really quite simple. For those who are more confident in the kitchen, there are lots of ideas here that can be adapted depending on what you happen to have in your cupboard at the time. I often turn to it for inspiration for quick supper dishes as well as for more special meals. Recipes are grouped by common ingredients, with chapters on pasta, pulses, salads etc, and by regions, with chapters on mediterranean and asian cooking. The premise of the book is that it gives a modern twist on traditional old favourites. Donna Hay certainly achieves this - and gives heaps of inspiring new ideas as well, which will have you itching to get cooking and eating!


Very Tasty   April 7, 2004
 5 out of 8 found this review helpful

a mix of classics and simple foods to be enjoyed by all with easy cooking, just like Nigella! comfort foods and desserts which are deliecious but lots of new ingredients like almond meal but delicious, especially the blueberry muffins!


Everything you need   June 19, 2003
 24 out of 26 found this review helpful

I have had this book for several months now and unlike every other cookbook on my shelf, it really has been used and is beginning to look a bit dog-eared! The recipes are great and easy to follow, there are no "strange" or "hard to find" ingredients. You will find simple recipes like how to cook a roast, to how to make Thai Green Curry (one of the best recipes for Thai Green Curries I've ever found). Even the basics are covered, like how to cook great rice and make great mashed potatoe.

The only problem is that it doesn't have any recipes for desserts, but this will be covered in her second book "Modern Classics Book 2". Otherwise, an essential kitchen tool for the person who wants to improve and expand their cooking skills!