The Williamsburg Art of Cookery

This cookbook is a Must for those who love cookbooks. Although a bit difficult to read (it has the original English of the Williamsburg folks) it is one of my favorite books.

First of all, they print and publish this little gem on property down in Colonial Williamsburg. You can visit the printing shop and watch them make the books right there! Second, the recipes and introductions to the sections are right out of old time Virginia. Not only are there a multitude of recipes to choose from with accurate sources named, but the advice on how to serve and the style with which these dishes were offered is incredible. Each section is given a page or two of an intro on how a certain food (soup, meat, fish, etc.) was used in Colonial Williamsburg and across Virginia. There would be a little history and even some documented accounts from those that lived during the times on specific foods, venues, and the like. It really is a trip back in time. The recipes themselves are kept in the same language, so a few of them use terms and phrases no longer used in this day and age. A good dictionary or a culinary guide should get you through those recipes. Still, most are easily understandable and not difficult to make at all. Best of all, they keep true to the originals from way back when. Some of the entries even have alternate ways of preparing the same dish, either more updated or using differing ingredients. Overall, this is a fantastic cookbook, not only chock full of recipes, but with a wealth of knowledge about the area and the times. If you like history and cooking (especially themed cooking), this is a must-have and should be on your shelf right away. Happy eating and enjoy!