Kentucky Cooks: Favorite Recipes From Kentucky Living

by: Linda Allison-Lewis

Published by: The University Press of Kentucky

Reviewed by Andrea Sisco

I enjoy all things Southern and for this Midwestern girl, Kentucky qualifies. And since I love to eat, it seems natural to marry the two things: Southern and food. The result is Kentucky Cooks: Favorite Recipes From Kentucky Living.

Author Linda Allison-Lewis is the culinary columnist for “Kentucky Living.” Kentucky Cooks is the best of her columns–and it won’t disappoint readers/cooks.

Food means many things to different people. It’s about love, comfort, family/friends and good times. This book is the best of Kentucky cooking. Scattered within the pages are short stories, such as the kitchen that rained beans (there is a pressure cooker involved). Some of these stories will bring a smile, others a nod of the head and others will make you laugh.

Kentucky Cooks contains recipes for Appetizers, soups and salads, breads, entrees, side dishes, sandwiches, snacks, breakfast, sweets, and drinks. Some of my personal favorites are: Green Chili and Cheddar Cornbread (mouthwatering), Crouton and Walnut Catfish (brings memories of meals with an old Kentucky friend), Red Velvet Cake (to die for), and Banana Cream Pie. My husband’s favorite sweet? Rice Pudding Southern Style (I made points with this one).

Kentucky Cooks should be on every kitchen shelf. The recipes are pretty easy and use ingredients most cooks have on hand. Don’t loan it out. It won’t be returned.

Armchair Interviews says: A winner!