I
have always been a fan of Jo Pratt's books. For me they always seemed
to echo where I was in my life at the time of reading so they have
always appealed that little bit more than usual. Her style of cooking
and writing and the food she enjoys resonates so easily with me that
I managed to convince myself that of course if I knew her, we would
be best friends! (Don't worry Jo – I now live on the other side of
the world!) But like a true, trusted friend that you can rely on here
we are once again with her third book and surprise surprise it's just
what I am looking for!
Her
latest book, Madhouse Cookbook, comes from the current time in her
life where she is a busy parent juggling work and young children so
it is only natural that she deems her home a madhouse! Her latest
book is all about trying to balance her work and home life and still
have time to cook dinner for family, friends and of course, herself,
so this book is all about simple, quick to prepare and easy to shop
for meals that cover all eventualities! The book has three main
chapters – Monday to Friday Survival, The Busy Weekend and Cling on
to Your Social Life. Each chapter is further divided into different
categories for even more direction and organisation, such as 'The
Need for Speed', 'Quick Prep – Leave to Cook', 'The Family Meal'
and 'Saturday Night (Kids are Banned)'.
The
book is packed full of recipes as well as ideas for transforming
leftovers. In the end I tested 4 recipes plus a leftover recipe.
The
Tested Recipes:
Very
Special Fried Rice
Simple
Beef and Barley Casserole and
Beef and Barley Pasties
Leek,
Bacon & Brie Pasta
Sticky
Toffee and Banana Pudding
