“The Chew: A Year of Celebrations” edited by Ashley Archer and Jessica Dorfman Jones
Kingswell, 255-page paperback
Fans of the television lifestyle show “The Chew” will welcome the latest cookbook from its five hosts — Mario Batali, Michael Symon, Carla Hall, Clinton Kelly and Daphne Oz. “The Chew: A Year of Celebrations” includes recipes from each host, along with crafts and fun ideas on decorating and hosting parties throughout the year.
The new recipe collection features colorful photographs and graphics which capture the feel of the lively show. Its engaging hosts share their favorite recipes and offer plenty of entertaining advice for every occasion from game day to New Year’s Eve.
The book is divided into four sections. All-American Classics, Happy Holidays!, Milestones and Big Bash. Planning an elegant dinner party? You’ll find a menu for the party in the Big Bash section. Among its suggested recipes is the Sazerac, the cocktail born in New Orleans. Looking for a spicy dish to serve at a Halloween meal? Try Chicken Diablo from the Happy Holidays! section.
Among the book’s other recipes are Green Chili and Chocolate Walnut Cookies for game day, Stuffed Acorn Squash and Pumpkin Pecan Pie for Thanksgiving, Frisée Salad With Candied Bacon and Bananas Foster Crepes for Mother’s Day, and Mistletoe Bellini and Roasted Pork Loin With Cranberries for Christmas.
I made Hall’s Rum Balls for a recent get-together with my dinner club. While everyone liked them, the members agreed with me that they didn’t have much of a rum flavor — and I had added extra rum. I suggest using bourbon instead. They will make a pretty Christmas treat.
BATON ROUGE ADVOCATE
OCTOBER 22, 2014