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372nd out of 1,031 books
—
66 voters
The Homemade Pantry: 101 Foods You Can Stop Buying and Start Making
by
Alana Chernila (Goodreads Author)
“This is my kitchen. Come on in, but be prepared—it might not be quite what you expect. There is flour on the counter, oats that overflowed onto the floor, chocolate-encrusted spoons in the sink. There is Joey, the husband, exhausted by the thirty-five preschoolers who were hanging on him all day, and he is stuffing granola into his mouth to ease his five o’clock starvatio...more
Paperback, 288 pages
Published
April 3rd 2012
by Clarkson Potter
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This is about so much more than just stocking the pantry with wholesome, non-industrial foods. It's a love story and a very charming one at that. Warm, friendly and delicious... totally enjoyed it and read it like a novel : )
If you are looking for an approachable way to eat better & healthier and save money, this book gives you the foundation for simple basics that will change your entire system of provisioning.
I can't wait to try the twinkies!
If you are looking for an approachable way to eat better & healthier and save money, this book gives you the foundation for simple basics that will change your entire system of provisioning.
I can't wait to try the twinkies!
Yet more birthday book-a-liciousness. This one's from Rose who knows a cookbook is always a safe bet for me. Over the years I have come across many foods we usually buy from the store but that we can also make at home. Beginning with my parents who routinely made butter, tomato paste, pasta, and other delicious comestibles in the 1960s and 70s. (We won't even get into raising their own chickens and pigs ... but I can tell you there is nothing like a duck egg for breakfast. It beats a chicken egg...more
3 likes · like · see review
Love, love, love the quirky little stories, her down to earth manner, and all the recipes look delicious... I'm already gearing up to make some fantastic treats!
This may be the only cook book I have ever (and will ever) read cover to cover - great ideas, layed out well, and fun - a great book for the chef in your life.
This may be the only cook book I have ever (and will ever) read cover to cover - great ideas, layed out well, and fun - a great book for the chef in your life.
5 likes · like · see review
A friend house-sat for us a few years ago. when we returned, she commented that we didn't have anything to eat. we told her, "we have ingredients."
As someone who's been cooking from scratch all my life, I didn't learn a whole lot new from this book. However, if you've been eating fast food and frozen dinners, this book is for you.
I laughed that she left out so many obvious things, too. Like, bottle your own water, cut up your own salad greens, etc.
As someone who's been cooking from scratch all my life, I didn't learn a whole lot new from this book. However, if you've been eating fast food and frozen dinners, this book is for you.
I laughed that she left out so many obvious things, too. Like, bottle your own water, cut up your own salad greens, etc.
Nov 08, 2012
Charlotte
added it
I think of myself as a terrible cook. Probably because I once set salmon on fire in the over. I don't know; don't ask. I have assisted others and with the use of an alarm, handily purchased by my wonderful significant other, I can stay focused enough to cook on my own. But to can? To make mayonnaise? I live in a city. We have delis for that kind of thing. For the same reason, I never have too many tomatoes or zucchinis. Or an excessive amount of fall squash. And yet, and yet, for some reason I d...more
This is a beautiful DIY book. What really separates it from other, similar books is the photos of the author and her family. She's also incorporated a small essay about each recipe - where it came from, why she loves it. It's a very personal book, and you feel like she is sharing a part of her life with you.
This is a great general DIY intro - the recipes are pretty general, and include lots of things you'd use every day. Some things, like pasta, aren't that original. However, I can't wait to mak...more
This is a great general DIY intro - the recipes are pretty general, and include lots of things you'd use every day. Some things, like pasta, aren't that original. However, I can't wait to mak...more
So I’ve been reading a lot about homeschooling recently, as it’s something that my husband and I are considering for our family. On one of the blogs I follow fairly regularly, this book by Alana Chernila was listed. This book has the potential to be an amazing resource for many years to come, and not just because it’s a cookbook. All cookbooks fall into the category of being useful beyond the initial purchase. That’s actually one of the things I love about cookbooks. But this cookbook teaches re...more
I'm sad that I didn't end up having the time to actually make something from this book, so I really can't give it 5 stars if I didn't try the recipes.
The author is a woman after my own heart (we even have the same yogurt maker!) and I could only wish that I had the energy to make everything she details in this book from scratch, but I can at least try. I found a lot of inspiration from reading her blurbs. Also, I definitely appreciated that she added "tense moments" to her recipes because I have...more
The author is a woman after my own heart (we even have the same yogurt maker!) and I could only wish that I had the energy to make everything she details in this book from scratch, but I can at least try. I found a lot of inspiration from reading her blurbs. Also, I definitely appreciated that she added "tense moments" to her recipes because I have...more
I'm not sure I've ever read a cookbook cover-to-cover, the way I did with this one (very happily, on the train to CT to visit my in-laws). I did skim some of the recipes, but otherwise read every word--each recipe has a warm-hearted, thoughtful, often funny mini-essay that accompanies it, so really this is part cookbook, part memoir, part treatise on eating sustainably and mindfully (and with pleasure). So it's several of my favorite genres and topics rolled into one. Occasionally the writing ge...more
yes, i'm adding another cookbook to my 2012 reads shelf...but it counts, trust me! this is no small book, and i read it cover to cover (ok, i scanned most of the recipes, but there's an essay accompanying almost every one, and some substantial chunks of text in between). i can't comment yet on the recipes; there's vanilla pudding chilling in my fridge right now, but it's only the second one i've had a chance to test drive. it's a beautiful book, though, with personal stories that place it somewh...more
Alana Chernilla is an example of a cook who I would like to be. One who understands the value of whole foods (by which I mean unprocessed foods and not the large grocery) and aspires to cook from scratch for a healthy living. Besides the fact that these qualities align with some of my core values, we also need cooks who carry on the tradition of our ancestors' cooking and not the more recent tradition of buying prepared and processed foods.
What are the chances I'll accomplish an entirely homema...more
What are the chances I'll accomplish an entirely homema...more
I took this book out of the library a couple of days ago and already I have wheat bread rising in the fridge, hamburger rolls waiting for the oven to finish preheating and lemons to be made into lemonade. I read a lot of cook books and I've never been as excited for one as I am for this book. My only problem is that I don't know what to make next...and that it is due back to the library in 3 weeks. (And since I was #40 on the wait list I don't think I'll be able to take it out again for awhile.)...more
I really enjoyed this cookbook. Written to encourage all cooks to make from scratch the foods that you normally pick up already made. I have made my own biscuits for years and have told any and all that it is easier and tastier to make my own rather than use canned biscuits. This cookbook follows up on that and gives recipes for basic packaged staples many families buy.
Make a real cake instead of a boxed one. Make real icing instead of canned icing. Make our own ketchup. Your own mix for pancake...more
Make a real cake instead of a boxed one. Make real icing instead of canned icing. Make our own ketchup. Your own mix for pancake...more
This cookbook fits right into the DIY movement by providing (as the title suggests) recipes for foods that you could be making yourself instead of purchasing pre-prepared.
I already cook from scratch a fair amount and have a sizeable cookbook collection with recipes. So I already have recipes aplenty for many of the foods featured in The Homemade Pantry. I still appreciated this book, because its emphasis on the "pantry" was a useful reminder for how I could be putting my time in the kitchen to...more
I already cook from scratch a fair amount and have a sizeable cookbook collection with recipes. So I already have recipes aplenty for many of the foods featured in The Homemade Pantry. I still appreciated this book, because its emphasis on the "pantry" was a useful reminder for how I could be putting my time in the kitchen to...more
This book inspires me, and validates me as a homemaker. The author and I are kindred spirits regarding making food from scratch to nourish your family. (I don't make everything from scratch; I get busy too). :) It encourages a slower pace, where you take the time to bake, and have family time anticipating it coming out of the oven! When I read the stories that go along with each recipe, it makes me think of the stories that go along with my recipes. I haven't made one of her recipes yet, though...more
The perfect book for people who want to cook more homemade foods to save money, eat better, and teach their children about working with their own hands. You'll learn how to make your own ricotta cheese and butter in the dairy chapter, find a yummy granola recipe that will serve a crowd in the cereal chapter, then move on to learn about canning, making condiments and spreads, breads and crackers, and even liquors. The baking mix, frozen foods, pasta and sauce, soups, candy and sweet treats, and d...more
Love, love, LOVE this book! I plan to purchase it before it's due to return to the library. Never has an author made recipes so incredibly simple and easy to do. About half of the products are so stupid simple to make--I can't believe I've been ingesting chemically laden store-bought products until now. A lot of the recipes are things that are SO basic and so frequently used in the kitchen that I never questioned making it myself.
I believe a blogger once said it best when one makes homemade but...more
I believe a blogger once said it best when one makes homemade but...more
The concept isn't new: homemade food is better, and it's not that hard to make your own pop tarts and salad dressing. And none of the recipes is new, either. Sure, the author modified some things to her own tastes, but they're hardly novel. I can easily find similar recipes and instructions online.
BUT... I still want to buy this book because nowhere have I seen so many great recipes in the same place and so beautifully illustrated. Each recipe has commentary from the author about why she decided...more
BUT... I still want to buy this book because nowhere have I seen so many great recipes in the same place and so beautifully illustrated. Each recipe has commentary from the author about why she decided...more
One of the few cookbooks that I've actually used a recipe from--and more than once. Got this from the library, and after careful scrutiny, have decided to purchase it soon. Alana Chernila cooks like I do--with the exception that I don't have chickens to gather fresh eggs from, etc. I really appreciate the recipes that encourage experimentation and thinking beyond the store to your pantry, knowing that a little effort can produce just about any food you might buy pre-made. Motivated by the light-...more
I loved this book. It's inspirational in terms of how easy the author makes it seem to create so many items (cook/bake) that one wouldn't normally think to make on one's own -- it's just a habit to head to the supermarket nowadays! Instructions are clear. The writing and pictures have a "homemade"/homey feel to them too, which made it a joy to peruse. Bought it and read it a few months ago and it's one I reference often as I grab various cookbooks (I own close to 300!) to figure out how to go ab...more
Quite possibly my favorite cookbook of all time. It has already found itself on my Amazon wish-list. Not only did I love having several practical recipes of things I could make at home rather than buy at the store, but I found the author's overall tone to be refreshing. Not once did she get on a high horse about how store bought food is the harbinger of the apocalypse and the destruction of small intestines everywhere. Her matter of a fact attitude recognizes that sometimes, despite how deliciou...more
Apr 26, 2012
Sally Barnett
added it
This book called to me from the new nonfiction shelves of the library. The essays, the photos and the recipes all combine to create a book that cries out to be read. I felt like I had met a new friend who shared my love for "real" foods. I have tried to limit processed foods in my diet for some years because of my blood pressure problems but some things are hard to avoid. No more excuses with this title. I liked it so much I have ordered copies for me and for one of my nieces. I guess I could sa...more
Alana's not only a great cook, she's a fantastic writer. Each little recipe has an opening blurb that's just delightful to read. So is hearing about her family. (Confession: I know her mother, and have met Alana and Joey and they're honestly as fantastic as they sound). The recipes are simple, but may include things you wouldn't normally try: graham crackers, peanut butter cups, pop tarts, sauerkraut, and cream cheese. But you're also buying this book for the enchanting photographs, those storie...more
1 like · like · see review
I'm probably not as impressed as I'm supposed to be by this comprehensive list of things you can make yourself. (Pickles? check. Tomato sauce? check. Spice blends? check. Pie crust, are you kidding me?)
However, what I really liked about this cookbook was its focus on method over recipe. For example, a section on chocolates starts off by coating dried fruit in bittersweet chocolate, but also explains how that works and how else you can apply it.
Um. Did I mention chocolate coatings? That helped.
Ov...more
However, what I really liked about this cookbook was its focus on method over recipe. For example, a section on chocolates starts off by coating dried fruit in bittersweet chocolate, but also explains how that works and how else you can apply it.
Um. Did I mention chocolate coatings? That helped.
Ov...more
This reads like a food blog, which is probably why I (who do not read cookbooks) read it cover to cover. The stories are sweet, the instructions clear, and the photos excellent. I LOVED the fact that the amount of time the goods can be stored (in both fridge and freezer) are clearly listed and Chernila is gently encouraging throughout.
I was less crazy about the predominance of shortening and things like flax and wheat germ made a few appearances. That is more of a matter of how I stock my pantry...more
I was less crazy about the predominance of shortening and things like flax and wheat germ made a few appearances. That is more of a matter of how I stock my pantry...more
Of all the cookbooks I own - and I own quite a few - this one is by far the one I reference the most. Mostly, though I just love to sit with a cup of tea and read it. Alana Chernila makes feel good about my obsession with good, homemade food.
I very much appreciate her telling you what food can easily be made ahead and put into the fridge or freezer. In our very busy household, this makes the weeknights go that much more smoothly.
If you are looking to make more homemade in your life, this is the...more
I very much appreciate her telling you what food can easily be made ahead and put into the fridge or freezer. In our very busy household, this makes the weeknights go that much more smoothly.
If you are looking to make more homemade in your life, this is the...more
Bought it on our trip to the US and once I got home I immediately started making stuff from this book. So far I tried the butter recipe, the ricotta (much better than the first recipe I tried a few years ago), the Wheat bread (I am just making my second one!) and the tomato salsa. I am looking forward very much to making my own Mozzarella :)
Not only am I learning a lot about how food is made especially certain products we would usually buy at the supermarket, I am also enjoying the very deliciou...more
Not only am I learning a lot about how food is made especially certain products we would usually buy at the supermarket, I am also enjoying the very deliciou...more
From the daughter of the author of the Moosewood Cookbook, this delightful book is part recipes, and part story telling. Alana shares her philosophy of life, while telling us how to make everything from homemade creme fraiche to roasted butternut squash soup. Sadly, I didn't discover this book a year ago when John was interested in making homemade pasta, bread and everything in between. Now, all foods are measured by how many carbs they contain, and the good things in life unfortunately, all too...more
So, I have to say...this was a major disappointment. I was SUPER-excited about this book but it just didn't live up to my expectations. Usually, when I read a cookbook, the darn thing is just filled with paper scraps to mark all of the recipes I want to copy/use. This time...three. I marked three measly recipes (two of which are syrups for soda and the third was the adorable toaster pastries from the cover). That's pretty pathetic.
My main complaint is that The Homemade Pantry is too basic and, w...more
My main complaint is that The Homemade Pantry is too basic and, w...more
I would consider most cookbooks as "reference books," in that you only open it when you need information. You refer to a single page, maybe two, and you're done. The Homemade Pantry is not like most cookbooks. Yes, it has recipes, but they are only part of the equation this book presents. Combine the great and oft-made recipes with deeply personal, heartfelt, and real-life ("warts and all") stories of a family and their food with truly art-like photographs, and you get an idea of how wonderful t...more
| topics | posts | views | last activity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WFS: Kitchen Witc...: Aisle 9 & 10 | 2 | 4 | Apr 15, 2013 10:58am | |
| WFS: Kitchen Witc...: Aisle 7 & 8 | 2 | 4 | Apr 08, 2013 02:30pm | |
| WFS: Kitchen Witc...: Aisle 3 & 4 | 6 | 16 | Mar 30, 2013 06:58pm | |
| WFS: Kitchen Witc...: Aisle 1 & 2 | 23 | 24 | Mar 20, 2013 06:38am | |
| WFS: Kitchen Witc...: Aisle 5 & 6 | 1 | 6 | Mar 17, 2013 05:56am | |
| WFS: Kitchen Witc...: Welcome, Intro & Discussion Schedule | 41 | 27 | Feb 25, 2013 12:25pm | |
| FSC Book Club: Aisle 11 (Candy & Treats) | 17 | 58 | Jan 18, 2013 02:20am |
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“Life is too short to eat food that doesn't taste good.”
—
4 people liked it
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Jul 04, 2012 12:54pm