For Christmas in 2008, I was given my very first Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook. I didn’t realize until recently what a wealth of information this book is.

Not only are there hundreds of classic recipes, but there are many variations to the classics included as well. There are informational pages about herbs, mushrooms, beans, pasta, cheese, meat…it goes on and on. In the very beginning of the book, there is a whole chapter on kitchen basics–what to always have on hand (pantry staples and kitchen appliances, gadgets, and cookware) how to throw an awesome dinner party, and basic table manners. Inside the front and back covers are huge charts. One chart contains conversions, while the other contains emergency substitutions.

The informational pages about the different categories of food are probably one of my favorite things about this book. I don’t know about you, but every time I go to the grocery store, a different cut of meat is on sale–and even though these sales are great, I don’t always know what to do with the meat when I get it home. Sure, I know what to do with a chuck roast or steaks, but what if it’s a type of roast I’ve never cooked before? What if lamb is on sale? I wouldn’t know what to do without this cookbook. There is an entire spread in the meat section that lists each type of meat (with a picture, so helpful) and what to do with it to yeild the best results. And of course beef, veal, pork, and lamb are all included along with recipes for each category and then a chart at the end on how to broil, roast, and skillet cook meat (including how to prepare it, how long to cook it, and what temperature it’s supposed to be when done).

I think one of the first recipes that will come to be in my kitchen from this book will be Zucchini Bread. I went a little crazy at the farmers market last week and bought up more zucchini than I knew what to do with. Later, though, I am going to test my hand at sourdough bread. Excitement doesn’t even begin to describe it.

Whether you’re a true beginner or a self-proclaimed pro in the kitchen, the Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook is bound to be your best friend in the kitchen. If you’re interested, you can buy the version I own here.

Please note: I did not receive any type of incentive or bribe to review this book. I truly love it, and reviewed it here on my awesome blog out of the kindness of my heart. I am willing to review items provided they are sent to me free of charge–but this was not one of them. Unless my mom works for Better Homes and Gardens. Which she does not.