2/ 🧵 /The Complete Small Plates Cookbook/ America's Test Kitchen

There are some nice things about this just-published book. There is a table at the end of the book listing every recipe and nutrition information (calories, salt, fats cholesterol, carbs, etc and protein) It is in a table format so you can glance down a column to see which recipes are low or high in that column.

Also at the end is an appendix on how long things can be made ahead, from a day or two, up to a month.

The book starts with info about using small plates, and some great menu suggestions including open house, eating on the couch, Indian tea party and weekend brunch.

The recipes are clear, well written in a readable font. Each has a section on Why This Recipe Works, and perfect pairings, what can be prepared ahead, and what accompaniments or condiments it needs. There is clear information on serves, active time and total time. I am impressed that it doesn't dumb down ingredients, using items such as black vinegar and red vinegar sauce quite casually.

The book tends to open flat except at the beginning and end - you'd need your weights here. There is no bookmark which is a red mark for a book this size. And the index looks Ok.

Recommended for entertainers, lovers of small plate meals and nibbles, and fans of scratchit meals. There are recipes from all around the world.

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1/ 🧵 /The Complete Small Plates Cookbook/ America's Test Kitchen

When the kids were teenagers we'd often eat "scratchit" meals, especially on weekends. The fridge would be raided, everything would be placed on bowls on the table, crusty bread would appear and some olive oil, and we'd sit around and chat and help ourselves.

It is a great way to eat, and oh how good it is for using up leftovers. It also meant I could cook small dishes at any time of the day, without worrying there wouldn't be enough for everyone. Small plates/Meze/Tapas style food is a lot of fun.

The Complete Small Plates Cookbook, by America's Test Kitchen
Published: 2023
Pages: 432
Publisher: America's Test Kitchen
Price: around $45AU, but look around as prices vary.An eBook is available.

Recipes: 309 recipes, around 250 of which are meat, fish and egg free. These include some sauces and dressings etc.

This book is for the "scratchit" eaters. Small plates to cook any time, eat immediately or pop in the fridge to contribute to a meal later. Salads, pies, pizzas, croquettes, fried cheeses, vegetables, finger food, dips, spreads, breads, dumplings, pastries and sweet treats.

I looked for vegetarian protein recipes, and found 2 tofu dishes, 1 with tempeh, 2 with lentils, 12 with beans and 54 with cheese. There is a chapter called Protein, but it is primarily non-veg. I am impressed there is a tempeh recipe (Seared Tempeh with Tomato Jam). I guess in total it is relatively Ok, but I would have liked seeing more.

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