Jamie’s Comfort Food | Book Review

I’m a huge Jamie Oliver fan, and pretty much make a lot of our everyday meals from one of his books, so I was super excited when I heard he had another cookbook coming out – Jamie’s Comfort Food.

When I heard the title of ‘Comfort Food’ I was expecting there to basically be a lot of casseroles and pies as that is what I traditionally associate with the phrase. I was very wrong. There are some lovely looking pies and puds but there is also a huge variety of other recipes, including salads, veggie options, pasta dishes and yummy cookies, all including fab rustic pictures. I was impressed before I even opened it too – it looks good and feels superior with its fabric cover.

The book is split into the following 6 main recipe sections:

Nostalgia
Good Mood Food
Pick Me Ups
Ritual
Guilty Pleasures
Sweet Indulgence

Of the recipes I have tried so far I have really loved them. There is just such a complete variety and there are 100 to choose from. Some were pretty quick, some took a while, so there is something for everyone. It is definitely different to Jamie’s last Book ‘Save with Jamie’ as there are a few of the recipes that need quite a lot of ingredients. If you don’t already have them in, and you don’t want to get them in, it would be handy if you know some alternatives or variations. For example, one pasta recipe I made, asked for a splash of red wine. As a non-drinker I didn’t want to splash out (pun intended ha) on some red wine that I would only need a ‘splash’ of it so I used some fish stock instead. Guaranteed though that if you follow the recipe precisely, it’s is going to be some pretty amazing food. I don’t think I’ve ever made a bad Jamie Oliver recipe, ever.

I like how the instructions are written, very Jamie, quite chilled and not too precise. I think that is why he is so popular as he appeals to everyone and makes this cooking lark look very easy, when you’re not too particular about measurements of ingredients.

I really like the layout of the book and with it being divided into categories, you can quickly flick to the region you’re after. I also like that the serving sizes are there and how many calories it should be – most helpful as some recipes are a lot less indulgent than you think they will be. If you want more in depth nutrition info it is all at the back of the back so you can see sugar, saturated fat, protein etc. All the recipes give a time indication too and I have found this to be absolutely precise. Great when meal planning and to choose what to eat, when.

jamie3 — Spinach, Bacon & Pine Nut Salad

I have really enjoyed this recipe book so far, it’s proving to be one of my favourite books by Jamie so I would completely recommend it you to – perfect Christmas gift for any budding chefs out there. I can’t wait to try the peanut butter and jelly brownies!