Allison’s Book Report - “Home Cooking” by Laurie Colwin

With the holidays fast approaching, the days getting even shorter, and a distinct fall chill in the air, it seems that my mind is turning to one thing: food. I love cooking and eating, but reading about food is almost as much fun. Books centered around food and cooking can inspire us to revisit our old favorite dishes or maybe even try something new. This week, I stumbled upon an older book that is part cookbook, part memoir, and it gives all the cozy vibes I have been craving.

“Home Cooking” by Laurie Colwin is a collection of essays and recipes that blends personal reflections on food with practical cooking advice. Colwin, an accomplished novelist and food writer, brings warmth, wit, and insight into her exploration of the joys and challenges of cooking. She provides a variety of recipes - from simple, comforting dishes to more adventurous ones, with an emphasis on creating food that is satisfying and enjoyable to make rather than imposing perfection. 

Despite the fact that “Home Cooking” was written and published in the late 80s and that Colwin died in 1992, it still felt fresh and timeless. Written in a time before the internet and before access to endless hours of food-related television, Colwin’s tone is friendly and accessible - like an auntie who happens to be a delightful storyteller and an experienced cook, telling stories while she fixes you something to eat in her kitchen. She encourages cooks to embrace the process of preparing food, experimenting with ingredients, and finding personal joy in the act of cooking. Colwin also reflects on the cultural and emotional significance of food, writing about how cooking is often a way to connect with others and show care. Her philosophy is centered on the idea that good cooking is not about following strict rules but about understanding flavors, being intuitive, and making food that brings comfort and happiness. Overall, “Good Cooking” is a celebration of the pleasures of home-cooked meals, a perfect balance of recipe collection and culinary wisdom that invites readers to enjoy food as both an art and a source of connection. I just learned that there is a sequel to “Home Cooking,” appropriately named “More Home Cooking,” that I will definitely have to look for.

This week's book has me wanting to try my hand at baking some homemade bread, possibly to be served alongside a huge bowl of piping hot soup or maybe a roast chicken dinner. I hope you're inspired to read, cook, and/or eat something delicious this week. Don't forget to pop over to my Instagram @allison.the.reader, where we can swap reading recommendations and recipes.