Small Bites

Lauren Braun Costello, co-author of “Notes on Cooking,” will cook and sign copies of her book from noon-4 p.m. July 16 at Rainbeau Ridge.

Besides being a French Culinary Institute graduate, caterer and prominent food stylist, Lauren and her son Jonathan are graduates of Rainbeau Ridge’s Roots program.

All the info about Lauren — and Rainbeau Ridge (home of delishy goat cheese of all sorts), after the jump:

Notes on Cooking is for the everyday cook wanting to improve, the seasoned expert looking to review the highest culinary standards, and the food lover seeking a fascinating glimpse into the pursuit of epicurean excellence. The book also features a recommended equipment list, an annotated reading list, suggestions for food pairings, and more. Until now, such enduring good advice – especially this quick, efficient, and easy – has rarely been found outside a professional kitchen or textbook.

Notes on Cooking serves up what every cook needs to know, beyond the recipe: 217 “notes” organized into 19 chapters that deliver enduring culinary truths, the highest standards of conduct, and timeless gems of cooking wisdom.

From understanding the recipe to presentation, from tools to storage, from stocks and sauces to wine and spirits, the assertive, no-nonsense language of Notes on Cooking provides the explanatory commentary, helpful examples, and insights (from Alice Waters, Escoffier, da Vinci, and many others) that will help anyone become a better cook. The notes also include life lessons – about how to bring delight, how to recognize quality, and how to see beauty in simplicity – that are as valuable outside the kitchen as they are inside.

Here’s what people are saying—
Daniel Boulud calls it “superb;” Lidia Bastianich says it is “invaluable.” James Peterson finds it “indispensable.” Dan Barber believes it will “inspire.” Michael Romano declares it “wonderful;” Gael Greene says it is “amazing.” But it’s not a restaurant that unites this diverse collection of renowned chefs and writers. It’s a book – a book on cooking, yes, but one without a single recipe.

MORE ABOUT RAINBEAU RIDGE

Since its inception in 2002, Rainbeau Ridge has been committed to the principle that farming can be an important part of the social, cultural, educational and commercial activity that ties a local community together.  In all of its endeavors, Rainbeau Ridge is committed to proving that local farming and appreciation for nature can once again be an important cornerstone of community life.  Rainbeau Ridge is “making sustainable living second nature.”™

Rainbeau Ridge is a source locally for sustainable living and accessible agriculture, offering a wide range of activities, programs and products for families and individuals to incrementally integrate nature into their lives.

New adult and children’s programs are being added all the time, including In Lisa’s Kitchen cooking classes, Open Farm Days, and Accessible Agriculture workshops, so readers should check the website at www.rainbeauridge.com for more information and to sign up.  Rainbeau Ridge’s award winning goat cheese is available at fine restaurants and retailers, the complete list of which is available on the website.

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