Elizabeth David's Christmas »

Renowned British food writer Elizabeth David not only transformed the way her country cooked, but also influenced American chefs and writers such as Julia Child and Alice Waters. She "rediscovered" simple and natural foods at a time when both England and America were in the culinary dark ages, and wrote about them with gusto, grace, and wit.
As an author, journalist, and cook she had, over the years, collected recipes, essays, and notes in a box marked "Christmas," fully intending to publish it as a book. Sadly, she never saw the book to publication, but her literary executor and agent, Jill Norman, found her Christmas file and has compiled this book as Elizabeth intended it.
Feeding friends and family for Christmas can be stressful, and this book is intended to help busy cooks plan ahead and enjoy their Christmas as much as their guests. For sure, the classics are all here: turkey (of course), but also goose; stuffings; sauces; mince pies; and Christmas puddings. For armchair cooks, the text also provides diversion as well as information: here are the actual rituals, recipes, and traditions of Christmas past, along with descriptions of yuletide celebrations in different countries. This book, presenting a festive visit to the kitchen of a great and feisty cook, is a feast for the mind, the chef, and the table.