Kitchen Life: Real Food For Real Families -- Even Yours!

Who better than Oprah's personal chef, Art Smith, to deliver an empowering cookbook? His Kitchen Life aims to "hand readers the keys to the cooking kingdom so that preparing a meal is never a chore, but is instead a pleasure." To do so, he offers self-help and 130-plus recipes meant to fit the lives of the busy cooks with hungry families. The book's formula involves, for example, offering letters from "real people" whose kitchen distress Smith feels and then "relieves" via suggestions like "cooking at home takes a little planning but doesn't have to take much effort." But he also provides solid strategies and insights, notably in sections called "My Best Supermarket Tips" (know how produce is priced to avoid ever-creeping expense, he advises); "Eating Right" (for healthy eating, home portion control is basic); and "Different Ways of Cooking" (identify cooking methods like sautéing or roasting with which you're most comfortable). Smith also offers thoroughly useful recipes, such as Barbecued Ribs and Slaw Sandwiches; Tuna Casserole with Bow Ties, Mushrooms, and Parmesan; and Apple Cranberry Pudding, all scaled to what the average busy cook can deliver. His formulas will also help cooks to establish an everyday repertoire while encouraging more confident cooking to come. With color photos and sample menus to further assist everyday meal planning. --Arthur Boehm