Rocket’s Resources | Books

Cheese Primer

The Cheese Primer is an intruiging, entertaining resource that describes nearly every cheese imaginable.

Written by the oh-so-opinionated Steve Jenkins, the book covers the making, selection, and serving of cheese from every corner of the US and Europe. The best thing about Jenkins opinion, is that in almost every case, I agree with him! His tastes match mine, so when he recommends something, I know I'm in for a treat. When he doesn't, I know not to waste my time.

The book includes photos, maps, and a ready reference to enhance your education in cheese.

What a great find!

How to Grill

How to Grill is a complete, photo-packed book of barbecue techniques and recipes.

While many of you may just fire up the grill and get to it, America's grilling authority Steven Raichlen offers way more. Yes, there are recipes for marinades, rubs, and sauces, but there are also techniques and step-by-step photos that will change the way you grill. Open this book to any page and rock your barbecue world. I did!

Raichlen's beer can chicken has taken the world by storm. His sense of humor throughout the book is contagious. The recipes have explicit instructions accompanied by detailed photos. The book is full of how-to tips that make barbecuing fun, easy, and delicious. If you don't barbecue, or don't like to barbecue... open this book and you will!

McDougall Program for Maximum Weight Loss

The McDougall Program for Maximum Weight Loss may sound like just another dieter's paperweight, but it's not.

This best-seller has been on my shelf for years, diet or no diet. The recipes stem from meals composed of whole, natural foods that are nutritionally balanced. If you follow the progam (which is not a fad), you can eat as much as you want and still lose weight. Even better, the food tastes great! All recipes are vegan.

Less than half of the book is dedicated to recipes (the rest describes the program and why it works), but the recipes rock! After week or so of eating the food described in this book, most other meals taste fattening and unhealthy. This book can change your lifestyle!

McDougall has written many companion books with slightly different twists, but the same end result.

Nancy Silverton's Sandwich Book

Nancy Silverton's Sandwich Book is my newest favorite.

Every sandwich in this book sounds absolutely awesome. Those that have photos truly make your mouth water.

Baker and proprietor of the famed La Brea Bakery, as well as co-owner of Campanile, Silverton takes recipes from her “sandwich night” at the restaurant and tailors them for the home kitchen. She even shares recipes for her famous breads.

From open-faced to closed faced to sort-of sandwiches, each one is a gourmet meal on bread. In addition to the sandwiches are recipes for snacks, spreads, and condiments. Mmmmmm!