An Appetite for Ale: Hundreds of Delicious Ways to Enjoy Beer with Food

by Fiona Beckett, Will Beckett, Vanessa Courtier (Photographs)

As this unique cookbook proves, beer need not be relegated to the realm of mere beverage, but instead can serve as a unique ingredient or tasty flavoring in a variety of foods. More than 100 recipes—each recipe guaranteed to be accessible, hearty, and bursting with flavor—that utilize various styles of ale are offered, including soups and stews spiced by winter ales, chickens roasted using dark beers, and fine desserts finished off by sharp, fruity brews. An emphasis is placed on traditional, delicious dishes suitable for both entertaining and for domestic suppers, with sections including snacks, spreads, and dips; soups, pasta, and risotto; chicken and poultry; seafood; meats; bread and cheese; and sweet treats. Advice is also provided on pairing beers with meals and entertaining with ale, making this a must-have for experimental chefs and beer-lovers alike.

Genres: Nonfiction

192 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2007

Reviews

[Paul · Rating 2 out of 5]

I thought this book was aimed at people who wanted to use beer in their cooking. There are a few recipes that tell you how to do that alongside other beverages as well. But a lot of the content is devoted to flavours to compliment the beer. A lot of ingredients are involved which requires a good food knowledge and some of them aren’t necessarily available in the local supermarket. Some of the recipes also require a fully stocked kitchen with many devices, as well as a good knowledge of preparation techniques that you might have to seek out elsewhere. They also take time and that little bit of extra effort to get the best flavours. The photos do look appetising, and there’s a large range of foods to try to suit many palettes. A style of beer is suggested, but it’s your job to try the perfect match. I will get round to trying one out one day, probably starting with the Barm brack.