Monday, November 30, 2009

Jack Daniel's Spirit of Tennessee Cookbook by Lynne Tolley & Pat Mitchamore

I review for Thomas Nelson Book Review Bloggers





Let me begin by saying - I LOVE COOKBOOKS. This collection of recipes includes ones with and without Jack Daniel's as an ingredient so don't let the title fool you. There is something in it for everyone - and when I say everyone, I am not exaggerating. This cookbook has over 375 Southern recipes. Among them are also photos of life in Tennessee as well as commentaries about the history of Jack Daniel's and the Tennessee area.



The Southern Classics are represented: meatloaf, fried chicken, catfish and bar-b-que. There are also some surprises even for this Southern Belle: Possum and Sweet Taters, Ham Mousse and Molded Beet Salad. While I can't wait to try many more of the recipes in this cookbook, I can honestly say those are not among them. ;) The stories and photos, circa 1980 (and some older), really add character to the book and give a glimpse into life on the Tennessee farm. It is easy to pull together a southern affair using just the recipes in this book. Categories from drinks to desserts and outdoor cooking to vegetables, allow anyone to put together a great southern meal from beginning to end.

I've not had time to try them all but a few of my favorites so far are: Asparagus Casserole, Boarding House Meat Loaf and German Chocolate Upside-down Cake - a meal fit for a Southern royal family. Enjoy.