Herbs & Spices: The Cook's Reference Hardcover – May 5, 2015 by Jill Norman (DK)

The format of Herbs and Spices is wonderful, and the content is - well, let's just say that it's wonderful depending on what you are looking for.

We considered several herb books before selecting this one. There are other that are more detailed. Some that are health-oriented. Still more that focus on gardening. All good, all interesting. What we wanted, however, was a useful, but still survey-level reference with a cooking focus. Herbs and Spices is just that, with a page or two for each entry. Notes on scent and taste are included, as well as references to typical dishes (nothing oddball here). All usable parts of each plant are covered. Notes on purchasing and storing are included with each entry. GOOD pictures of each herb are included as well. In short, a compact reference with an instantly understandable and usable format.

Highly recommended.

Herbs & Spices is the essential cook's companion, now redesigned and updated with all new recipes.

A classic reference, the best-selling Herbs & Spices is a trusted resource in the kitchen, with more than 200 unique herbs and spices from around the world showcased alongside gorgeous, full-color photography, flavor notes, and pairings. This new, updated edition includes the newest herbs, spices, and flavorings influencing global cuisine today, plus more than 180 recipes for main dishes, marinades, pastas, pickles, and sauces.

Part spice cookbook, part kitchen encyclopedia, Herbs & Spices offers handy seasoning how-tos:

• How to identify and choose the best herbs, spices, and other flavorings.
• How to prepare and cook with them to ensure you are making the most of their flavors.
• How to make your own blends, spice rubs, sauces, and more — then customize them for your family's palate.

Herbs & Spices is perfect for beginning cooks just setting up a kitchen, foodies exploring the deliciously exotic mash-ups of today's modern cooking, and experts looking for ways to experiment with new flavor combinations. This practical illustrated reference book gives you all the guidance you need to become a master of seasonings and to make tantalizing food from around the world