Book description
Tom Aikens is undoubtedly one of the UK's most talented chefs. His
first restaurant, Tom Aikens, has received huge critical acclaim and
was awarded a Michelin star a year after opening, sealing Tom's
reputation as a culinary leading light. Tom also drummed up a further
legion of fans with the opening of Tom's Kitchen - an informal all-day
brasserie serving familiar and rustic dishes.
It is this simple, homely style of cooking that Tom focuses on in
his new cookbook. With over 200 easy recipes there's something for
every occasion, from fast fixes, such as Peppered Steaks with Crushed
Roast Garlic or Spiced Mullet Soup with Paprika and Chorizo; to twists
on classic comfort food such as Ham and Mustard Macaroni, Toasted
Sourdough with Aubergine, Basil and Sheep's Cheese and Lamb Rump with
Rosemary Polenta and Parmesan. There's also a chapter for weekend
cooking - pies, slow-roasts and hearty fare - and one on how to get
creative with your leftovers. Other highlights are Tom's irresistible
desserts: Prune and Armagnac Brioche Pudding, Caramel Mousse and
Golden Syrup Sponge.
The emphasis is on simplicity - recipes that can be prepared and
cooked without any hassle or fuss, making cooking a pleasure rather
than a chore. Beautifully illustrated with specially commissioned
photography and a fresh, striking design, this is set to be a
must-have cookery title.
Tom Aikens started working in London with Pierre Koffman at La Tante
Claire. Two stints in France followed (with Joel Robuchon in Paris and
Gerard Boyer in Reims) before he became Head Chef at Pied a Terre,
London, in 1996 and the youngest ever recipient of two Michelin stars.
Tom's dream was always to open his own restaurant and in 2003 he opened
Tom Aikens in Chelsea, London. Since then he has won great critical
acclaim and many prestigious accolades. In 2006 Tom opened his second
restaurant, Tom's Kitchen, also in Chelsea, and 2010 saw the opening of
two further restaurants at Somerset House - a second branch of Tom's
Kitchen and an al fresco dining venture, Tom's Terrace.
