Most useful cookery book I have. Reliable recipes with accurate timings. Everyday food, family meals, entertaining there's something for every occasion. No previous experience required. ( )

Some years ago my first copy of this incredibly useful cookbook fell apart and I was distraught. My dear daughter found me a second-hand copy, but now that too is showing the ravages of time and over-use. I will have to search for another copy.
Katie Stewart has written a book that has been the backbone of my family cooking. Incredibly basic information, such as how to roast meat, make an egg custard, various types of pastry and stock; but alongside that some really interesting recipes. All the essentials that other cookbooks assume you already know. It was my first cookbook when I got married over 30 years ago, and I learnt a lot from it, and still regularly turn to it as a reference point. ( )