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If you answered “Yes” to any of those questions, then I have a question for you: are you interested in reviewing some of our upcoming titles? (more…)

I love cooking. And while I love feeding people, my greatest joy is in “the process:” Chopping stuff, marinating, finding a balance of flavor, and preparing the menu. For many of my friends, the idea of cutting carrots into little cubes or carefully buttering layers of phyllo (φύλλο) dough causes much distress. My second favorite joy is altering a recipe and having it taste delicious. Cooking is far more forgiving of alterations than baking. While there are basic scientific issues in cooking that need respect, it’s unlikely that you’ll ruin the meal if you make a few changes.

I’ve come across many folks who find no joy in cooking, but get slightly excited at the thought of making something - with a little help from someone else. I must say that more than a few of my willing victims have walked away from a cooking lesson with a desire to explore food ideas and try something outside of their comfort zone.

So here’s my idea. Rather than starting a cooking school or regular book club, I’m going to start a cookbook/food magazine cooking club, with the thought that it would be welcoming to rookies and advanced cooks. I’ll pick a cookbook or issue of a food magazine, we’ll try the recipes in the book or magazine for about 4-6 weeks, and we’ll hang out at theCafe and exchange ideas, thoughts, and whatever else happens.

It’s still in the planning stages. I’ve contacted a few of my favorite food magazines to see if I can get issues in to Canon Press at a discount. And, Canon Press will continue to offer cookbooks at a discount. Obviously suggestions would be welcomed.

If you have any thoughts on this…leave me some feedback or email me if you’re shy.