Cookbooks!

I enjoy cooking, but I've been in a rut. I remember when I could think of 20 or more different ways to prepare chicken without really trying. Now I can think of about 4. I need variety. I need recipes. And so I have embarked on a mission to get recipes - but not just any recipes. I want the recipes that inspired me when I was a young housewife.

Many, many moves over close to 40 years have left me sadly bereft of some of my favorite cookbooks. I never have been without my Joy of Cooking , 1975 edition, though. The newer editions just don't measure up, so although this book is literally falling apart it is precious to me.

The next thing I decided I wanted was a set of recipe cards put out by Betty Crocker in 1971. Ebay was my friend, and I managed to acquire 2 sets rather than the 1 I needed. I am happily anticipating the arrival of this in a week or so. I once had this complete set, and I remember there are several recipes in it that were staples for me. I'm anxious to revisit those old friends, and to try the recipes I couldn't afford back then! I'm sure the second set will find a good home, too.

Next I wanted the Farm Journal Homemade Cookies book, also from 1971. There is an oatmeal/coconut crisp cookie recipe in it that is superb. Lots of other good cookie recipes, too. It was well worth the $ it cost me for a used copy through Amazon.

That's all I have managed to acquire so far, and that ought to keep me happily engaged in my kitchen for a few months. Nevertheless, I am on the lookout for more cookbooks that I may eventually purchase. I want the Farm Journal Country Cookbook from 1972. I may want The Good Housekeeping Cookbook from 1963. I am considering whether I want the classic Betty Crocker Cookbook from 1975 (Looseleaf binder edition, of course!) and the Better Homes and Gardens New Cookbook from 1968.

So I'm hanging out more in food forums, and it's working. Supper tonight was breaded pork chops, potatoes, and parsnips in a dutch oven, and sauteed swiss chard. It was fabulous, it made me happy to cook it, and my Sweetie loved it. He even ate all his vegetables.