I am a fan of Gordon Ramsey - his passion and search for perfection is truely inspirational. Unlike his previous Made Easy and F-Word books (and most like his early book "Passion for Flavour"), this book is pitched at the foodie in all of us. It is based on food served at his 3 Michelin starred restaurant in Chelsea, London. This book oozes class, from its slip case to quality production throughout - best of all though, the food looks absolutely stunning. The photography, by Quentin Bacon, is worthy of the production Ramsey has achieved on the plate - from Ravioli of Lobster, Pan Roasted fillet of halibut to the (oh my God!) amazing desserts. The raspberry, lemon and basil millefeuille is a work of art!
This level of food, for the home cook like me, can be very intimidating. How can I possibily make this food? This brings me to the whole crutch of the book. As a photoessay on the quality of Ramseys food it works beautifully but does it work as a cook book for the amateur? As my first dip into the book I cooked the Roast Venison as main and then the Pineapple soup and Toffee souffle as dessert. I am happy to report that the recipes are clearly laid out (I recommend that you read them throughly a few times before you start - there can be a lot going on in the recipes). I particulary like the bullet point-like sentences that are incredibily helpful when the pans are bubbling away and you need a quick reminder.
Best of all, the recipes worked! I had never made souffle before but my souffle rose really nicely and tasted great on the night. I think this is crucial to what Gordon Ramsey is doing in his recipe books and I think perfected in the current book: giving the amateur cook an opportunity to share in his incredible talent and achieve delicious food. I want to visit his 3-stared Chelsea restaurant to compare my creations with his!
This inspirational book should become a classic. My first Michelin star is on the way!
Thanks for reading my views
Jonathan