Daunted by the task of selecting the year's best recipes, James Beard Award–winners McCullough (Low-Carb Cookbook
) and Stevens (All About Braising
) realized that "our fellow home cooks were confronted with the same hopeless task" and decided to create the cookbook they themselves would want to have. The result: a well-written compendium of standout recipes from culinary stars (Jamie Oliver, Alice Waters), newspapers, magazines and lesser-known chefs and Web sites. Rick Bayless's foreword includes a recipe for Black Pepper French Toast that exemplifies the book's goal: to suggest new twists on classics, unexpected flavor combinations and dishes that work at a party or on a traditional Thanksgiving table. Highlights include Pasta with Asparagus and Lemon Sauce (Gourmet
), Mussels with Smoky Bacon, Lime, and Cilantro (Food & Wine
) and Bitter Orange Ice Cream (Nigella Bites
). Each recipe has a brief introduction, and "notes from our test kitchen" offer savvy advice. This book will please a range of palates, and suit every skill level. It's a resource to keep near at hand, whether for special events or daily meals. 60 color photos. (Sept.)
