Pantry to Plate

October 1, 2020
Simple in both concept and design, the second cookbook from recipe developer and co-organizer of the Food Writers' Workshop Stephenson (The Friendsgiving Handbook, 2019) focuses on creating a variety of recipes from 50 pantry, fridge, and freezer staples. Following the list of staples and recommended equipment, the recipes, while uncomplicated in preparation and not requiring a ton of exotic ingredients, don't scrimp on flavor and are widely varied, from spaghetti with tomato sauce and "fancy" tuna sandwiches to okonomiyaki, chicken "paella-ish," kimchi potato pancakes, and cassoulet-style lentils. Cute and colorful drawn illustrations from Sein Koo add to the book's homey feel, making it less intimidating for those who might be new to the kitchen. Because tips and tricks are woven into the narrative recipe instructions, many require a mid-recipe page turn. Overall, Stephenson fits a lot of cooking instruction and technique into a small package, making this a good fit for novice home cooks or anyone looking for quick and easy weeknight staples.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)