I was given this book by my brother whose partner is from the basque region. I frequently asked questions about basque food, but being as young as she is,could not help. I am a chef by trade and I am always looking to explore different cultures. As a chef I found this book basic in its ingredients, but being open minded, espacially being a lover of middle eastern food, ( which is also basic in ingredients) I was not dissapointed when trying out various dishes. I paid particular attention to the chapter of, Basque basics,then attempted some of the dishes. First tip; I will always use sherry vinegar in my dressings from now on.Second tip, try the roast duck with figs. You will never eat crispy duck pancakes from the chinese without raising an eyebrow of, " I could do better than that!" I rated this three stars, which is unforgiving, but as a chef, I want to give the impression that I could do better, but only with the guidance of Teressa. Second best gift I have received only to Larousse Gastronomique.