Which Alice Waters cookbook?

[Babette]

I have none and I am considering Chez Panisse Cooking, for starters. Any comments on this or others of her books?

[ronla]

I have both the fruit and veggies books. They're great. If you prefer veggies go with that one and vice versa. The nice thing about these books is that they are written in a very simple, straight-forward manner--not fussy. But the recipes vary from simple to complex so you have a choice.

[pitu]

exactly right
one of the fennel preparations in the veg book, a braise that includes orange zest, led me down the garden path (so to speak) of subtle complex flavors that were entirely out of my range at the time.
I've got to keep an eye out for the others as well!

[coconutz]

I loved the first Chez Panisse Menu Cookbook that I had in the 80's. I learned so much by cooking from it and I still make the Pear Tart Tatin and lentil salad among other things. Lost it so I don't know how it holds up, but I have fond memories.

[rabaja]

I have all of them and find the Cafe cookbook a great resource. The vegetable book is beautiful, and great for inspiration.
The fruit book is really good too, and offers more than simply dessert.
They are all a great addition to your library, start looking for them used and buy them as you find them.

[JudiAU]

Good point. I probably use the fruit book most all now that you mention it.

[Babette]

Good idea. Looks as though just one won't suffice. Amazon has paperbacks for very good prices, but I always regret buying paperback cookbooks if they get much use. Thanks, all.

Hmm, just checked & Ebay has some good prices for hardcover copies, though limited titles.

[JudiAU]

I have most of them and use the vegetable book most frequntly. Also the CP cooking.

[susancinsf]

I haven't tried many of them, but I use the Chez Panisse Cafe book regularly. Some of my favorite recipes from that one are the roasted Dungeness, the lamb stew and the spaguetti and meatballs.

[pitu]

I only know/have Chez Panisse Vegetables. It's an excellent reference with solid recipes.

[NYchowcook]

yes. I love this book. Don't use all the time, but it's good.