What do you think?
Rate this book
Brown Eggs and Jam Jars: Family Recipes from the Kitchen of Simple Bites
Aimée’s rural-homesteader upbringing, years working as a professional chef, and everyday life as a busy mom led to the creation of the hugely popular blog Simple Bites. Raising three young children with husband Danny, Aimée traded her tongs and chef whites for a laptop and camera, married her two passions—mothering and cooking—and has since been creating recipes with an emphasis on whole foods for the family table, sharing stories and tips, and inspiring readers to make the family–food connection on the Simple Bites blog.
Brown Eggs and Jam Jars is Aimée’s long-awaited cookbook, inspired by her urban homesteading through the seasons and the joyous events they bring. It embraces year-round simple food with fresh flavours, from celebrating spring with a stack of Buttermilk Buckwheat Pancakes and pure maple syrup, to a simple late-summer harvest dinner with Chili-Basil Corn on the Cob and Lemon Oregano Roast Chicken. Autumn favourites include Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake with Apple Butter Cream Cheese Frosting, while Slow Cooker Cider Ham is the perfect comfort food for those cold winter nights. But that’s just a few of the more than one hundred recipes (like melt-on-your-tongue maple butter tarts and tangy homemade yogurt) that have a touch of nostalgia, feature natural ingredients, and boast plenty of love.
Brown Eggs and Jam Jars will inspire readers to connect family and food right where they are in life—from growing their own tomatoes to making a batch of homemade cookies. Enjoy your urban homestead.
Brown Eggs and Jam Jars is Aimée’s long-awaited cookbook, inspired by her urban homesteading through the seasons and the joyous events they bring. It embraces year-round simple food with fresh flavours, from celebrating spring with a stack of Buttermilk Buckwheat Pancakes and pure maple syrup, to a simple late-summer harvest dinner with Chili-Basil Corn on the Cob and Lemon Oregano Roast Chicken. Autumn favourites include Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake with Apple Butter Cream Cheese Frosting, while Slow Cooker Cider Ham is the perfect comfort food for those cold winter nights. But that’s just a few of the more than one hundred recipes (like melt-on-your-tongue maple butter tarts and tangy homemade yogurt) that have a touch of nostalgia, feature natural ingredients, and boast plenty of love.
Brown Eggs and Jam Jars will inspire readers to connect family and food right where they are in life—from growing their own tomatoes to making a batch of homemade cookies. Enjoy your urban homestead.
288 pages, Paperback
First published February 10, 2015
14 people are currently reading
493 people want to read
About the author
Aimée Wimbush-Bourque
2 books11 followersAimée Wimbush-Bourque is the editor, main writer, chief cook and bottle washer at Simple Bites. She’s wife to Danny, mom of three kids, boss of two cats, and farmer of six brown hens. A former chef-turned modern homesteader and food blogger, Aimée chronicles her family food life from the dining room table surrounded by toy cars and cookie crumbs.
Aimée is a contributor to Jamie Oliver.com
Aimée could never cook without good quality spices, olive oil and sea salt and loves dabbling in gardening, foraging, and canning. When she’s not scrolling through Instagram, that is.
Aimée is a contributor to Jamie Oliver.com
Aimée could never cook without good quality spices, olive oil and sea salt and loves dabbling in gardening, foraging, and canning. When she’s not scrolling through Instagram, that is.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 23, 2015
My husband still finds is eccentric/amusing that I like to read cookbooks cover to cover and I suppose that's only fair since I am completely baffled by his habit of having one sporting event playing on the SEC Network at his office while listening to a different game (and sport!) on the radio simultaneously!
I can say without reservation that this is the best cookbook I have ever read, and that on many fronts. Often when I read a cookbook there will only be a few recipes that are appealing enough that I want to make them myself. While I may find the recipe interesting, I am in no way tempted to make something that there's zero chance my husband and children would eat, that would require ordering ingredients I've never heard of online from "obscure funky sauces.net" and that require 10,000 steps and cookware I don't already own. No matter how tasty I think it looks, I just don't have the time, money and energy to pull off a lot of recipes I read about. For the first time EVER, I can say without reservation that I want to make and eat EVERY SINGLE RECIPE in Brown Eggs and Jam Jars. Not only am I sure that I CAN do it, I CAN'T WAIT TO DO IT. In fact, I'm half tempted to go all "Julie and Julia" on this book because that's how scrumptiously excited I am about it.
Also, this is the most visually appealing cookbook I have ever seen and I have recently read some gorgeous ones (like Jenny McGruther's recent book). The photography is so homey and warm, but lavishly luxurious. . .I feel like a junior high kid run amok with a thesaurus trying to describe my reaction to the photos. Most of the photos have a jewel-tone color scheme that I think is pretty. I already have a small obsession with glass and glass jars, so this book just feeds that mania. Drooling over so many of the canning jars (and serving jars) I have come to learn that my life has been desperately lacking in the artistry of Weck. I hope to remedy this as soon as may be! Further, because of my childhood admiration of Aunt Rise, I also have a lust for dishes and this book is very much like porn for the tableware-addicted. I have warned you, so if you read this book and have the unstoppable urge to order a copper pot or a stoneware platter, you have only yourself to blame.
Lastly, but not "least-ly" I just so enjoyed Aimee's descriptions of homesteading, cooking, camping, picnicking, etc. It was a happy read--realistic, friendly and utterly lacking in "Oh, don't you wish you were as sophisticated and fantastic as WE are" subtle braggy-pantsing that so many writers like to parade around on blogs and their publishing spin offs.
If Aimee and I lived in the same area (country!), I feel sure we could be pals and if she stopped by the house in September when my hair was up in a claw clip and my apron looked like I ran over it with a tractor and the humidity in the house was 100% from the constantly boiling canning pots, I could totally say, "Hey, would you go look in that green box in the basement to see if I have any more pint jars?" Some of my other favorite cookbook authors? Well, let's just say I'd probably pass out with fear and worry just anticipating Geoffery Zakarian stopping by. . .ever! And, if Anne Burrell ever saw me cook SHE'D probably pass out from shock and horror.
Now, if I can just figure out how to get sugar maple trees to grow in my yard here in the high desert of Colorado, I'll be all set!
I can say without reservation that this is the best cookbook I have ever read, and that on many fronts. Often when I read a cookbook there will only be a few recipes that are appealing enough that I want to make them myself. While I may find the recipe interesting, I am in no way tempted to make something that there's zero chance my husband and children would eat, that would require ordering ingredients I've never heard of online from "obscure funky sauces.net" and that require 10,000 steps and cookware I don't already own. No matter how tasty I think it looks, I just don't have the time, money and energy to pull off a lot of recipes I read about. For the first time EVER, I can say without reservation that I want to make and eat EVERY SINGLE RECIPE in Brown Eggs and Jam Jars. Not only am I sure that I CAN do it, I CAN'T WAIT TO DO IT. In fact, I'm half tempted to go all "Julie and Julia" on this book because that's how scrumptiously excited I am about it.
Also, this is the most visually appealing cookbook I have ever seen and I have recently read some gorgeous ones (like Jenny McGruther's recent book). The photography is so homey and warm, but lavishly luxurious. . .I feel like a junior high kid run amok with a thesaurus trying to describe my reaction to the photos. Most of the photos have a jewel-tone color scheme that I think is pretty. I already have a small obsession with glass and glass jars, so this book just feeds that mania. Drooling over so many of the canning jars (and serving jars) I have come to learn that my life has been desperately lacking in the artistry of Weck. I hope to remedy this as soon as may be! Further, because of my childhood admiration of Aunt Rise, I also have a lust for dishes and this book is very much like porn for the tableware-addicted. I have warned you, so if you read this book and have the unstoppable urge to order a copper pot or a stoneware platter, you have only yourself to blame.
Lastly, but not "least-ly" I just so enjoyed Aimee's descriptions of homesteading, cooking, camping, picnicking, etc. It was a happy read--realistic, friendly and utterly lacking in "Oh, don't you wish you were as sophisticated and fantastic as WE are" subtle braggy-pantsing that so many writers like to parade around on blogs and their publishing spin offs.
If Aimee and I lived in the same area (country!), I feel sure we could be pals and if she stopped by the house in September when my hair was up in a claw clip and my apron looked like I ran over it with a tractor and the humidity in the house was 100% from the constantly boiling canning pots, I could totally say, "Hey, would you go look in that green box in the basement to see if I have any more pint jars?" Some of my other favorite cookbook authors? Well, let's just say I'd probably pass out with fear and worry just anticipating Geoffery Zakarian stopping by. . .ever! And, if Anne Burrell ever saw me cook SHE'D probably pass out from shock and horror.
Now, if I can just figure out how to get sugar maple trees to grow in my yard here in the high desert of Colorado, I'll be all set!
March 10, 2015
I saw Aimee on Canada Am and loved what she showed; simple, hearty, home cooked food.
Strawberry Lemonade, Rolled Spiced Gingerbread and Cinnamon Shortbread Bars with Chocolate Ganache are all on my must make list.
I love her passion for the kitchen and her want to include children in cooking is something I remember fondly doing with my mom.
Liked the section about tools for the kitchen. The maple syrup twist made me feel like there was a big nod to Canadian cuisine.
Must read!
Strawberry Lemonade, Rolled Spiced Gingerbread and Cinnamon Shortbread Bars with Chocolate Ganache are all on my must make list.
I love her passion for the kitchen and her want to include children in cooking is something I remember fondly doing with my mom.
Liked the section about tools for the kitchen. The maple syrup twist made me feel like there was a big nod to Canadian cuisine.
Must read!
February 6, 2015
Get this out of the way - thank you to Penguin Canada for sending me this book to read and cook from and share my thoughts on!
Lots of lovely colour photographs in this cookbook, which I deem essential to deciding what to cook next! A wide variety of recipes, sorted by season, which is quite helpful. None of the recipes seem overly complicated, and the ones I have made so far have turned out well (and tasty). Some good recipes for basics too - mayonnaise, tortilla, pickles, etc. Recipes are easy to follow, use common ingredients, and do not have too many steps. All good things!
I'm not the target audience for the passages on how to involve you children in cooking and gardening, so I will refrain from commenting on that portion.
I don't think this cookbook will become one of my go-to favourites, but there are some recipes well worth checking out and I am glad to give it space on my kitchen cookbook shelf!
Lots of lovely colour photographs in this cookbook, which I deem essential to deciding what to cook next! A wide variety of recipes, sorted by season, which is quite helpful. None of the recipes seem overly complicated, and the ones I have made so far have turned out well (and tasty). Some good recipes for basics too - mayonnaise, tortilla, pickles, etc. Recipes are easy to follow, use common ingredients, and do not have too many steps. All good things!
I'm not the target audience for the passages on how to involve you children in cooking and gardening, so I will refrain from commenting on that portion.
I don't think this cookbook will become one of my go-to favourites, but there are some recipes well worth checking out and I am glad to give it space on my kitchen cookbook shelf!
January 1, 2021
I love this cookbook, both the recipes and the stories of Aimee's homesteading life in Canada. So far I've only made the baked oatmeal but it is delicious.
May 20, 2015
Loved this book so much! Sat down with a cup of tea and read it in almost one sitting! My kind of recipe book, with tips, ideas, stories of life and inspiration in between some great recipes which I am going to try and hopefully keep as family favourites. I will read this again and again!
July 1, 2015
I read this cookbook like a book and really enjoyed it.
December 15, 2015
This is a truly lovely book, from the quality of the cover and pages, to the writing, to the photography, and of course, the recipes. Readers of Simple Bites, Aimee's blog, have waited for her to publish her first book, and this isn't simply a retelling of her blog posts. As a southern Californian, reading about a young family urban-homesteading in eastern Canada is a world away from the life I lead. I love reading about Aimee's family, their commitment to growing and producing their own food, avoiding processed food, canning and preserving (which I like to do), and their lifestyle, in general. Brown Eggs and Jam Jars includes a section on the best kitchen tools and equipment, how to create a great pantry with the best staples to have on hand, and truly delicious recipes! I have learned about maple sugaring and have started trying out the recipes using maple syrup, something new for me.
I highly recommend this book as one of those wonderful cookbooks that's a pleasure to read cover-to-cover!
I highly recommend this book as one of those wonderful cookbooks that's a pleasure to read cover-to-cover!
March 26, 2015
The author grew up in a rural homestead growing and making all their own food. As an adult and parent she wants to instill those same values in her children, but needs to live closer to where there is available work, so she and her family are urban homesteaders. They live on a few acres and grow tons of fruit and vegetables and raise chickens for meat and eggs. This cookbook is divided into the 4 seasons to promote eating seasonally, but she also talks about the importance of canning to preserve summer produce to enjoy year round. This is right up my alley! There were definitely some recipes I'd like to try and I'm also going to check out her blog Simple Bites too. A must read for any home gardener/canners out there!
August 30, 2015
As with most cookbooks, I started just flipping through it to skim some of the recipes. Then I realized I was reading them through. Then I found myself really interested in the stories between the recipes. Before I knew it, I went back to the beginning and read it cover to cover. I've never done this with a cookbook before.
I love the simple approach to "homesteading". The canning recipes and other basics seem so much more attainable in my novice state of home cook. I actually felt that I could accomplish most of what was written in this book which is very rare.
I will likely purchase a copy of this cookbook which I keep swearing I will not buy anymore cookbooks. But I feel this one is a must have.
I love the simple approach to "homesteading". The canning recipes and other basics seem so much more attainable in my novice state of home cook. I actually felt that I could accomplish most of what was written in this book which is very rare.
I will likely purchase a copy of this cookbook which I keep swearing I will not buy anymore cookbooks. But I feel this one is a must have.
September 21, 2015
This is a fabulous cookbook! Such great photos, the stories are welcoming and the recipes are attainable for your average (or a tad above) home cook. I've made a few recipes and one of my faves is the Maple Sriracha Roasted Pumpkin Seeds. It's fun to read a cookbook from a fellow mom of 3 and relatively local author. The homesteading approach looks like a great way of life from these inexperienced eyes - a lot of work, I'm sure - but obviously results in beautiful and interesting recipes. Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this cookbook from Penguin Canada as part of their #BrownEggsJamJars Instagrammer's promotion/contest (not really a contest).
December 16, 2015
This book has proven to be very popular. It's well written and has excellent photography. My biggest complaint is that Pioneer Woman, she is selling a lifestyle--a photoshopped lifestyle. Food porn and lifestyle envy. The recipes are a minor point in the book, and they should be the best that they can be. Something to dazzle and educate and taste good. I don't need a rustic shelf full of dried legume mason jars.
September 4, 2016
I would totally buy this for myself. She has a lot of maple and she breaks everything up by seasons so there is not brain work on when items are in season. She also gives tips on cooking and the when of things. There also tips in the book on Homesteading, like water barrels and composting. This is a very good book on living more naturally and very yummy recipes. Most of this is kid friendly as well.
January 9, 2017
3* A pretty and down-to-earth cookbook. I've enjoyed reading and trying out some of the recipes like Everyday Sandwich Bread, Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder, Zucchini Cornbread, and Chocolate Beet Sheet Cake. Aimee's recipes focus on homesteading and family cooking. They do portray the organic food movement, which I don't buy into.
April 28, 2015
I've tried a few recipes from this cookbook so far that have turned out great, and I love that its Canadian!
The maple glazed pork chop was perfection, and I can't wait to make some of the veggie dishes now that spring has sprung!
The maple glazed pork chop was perfection, and I can't wait to make some of the veggie dishes now that spring has sprung!
August 4, 2015
Loved the pictures and her opinions on food. The recipes look decent; however, there weren't many I could see our family eating. I love all her extra pages about canning, raised garden beds, sugaring off syrup, raising chickens, etc. The author's idea of a canning swap sounded really fun.
September 12, 2015
As a reader of her blog, Simple Bites, I was eager to read Aimée's cookbook and it did not disappoint. The memoir-style prose that accompanies the recipes is enjoyable and interesting, and the recipes I've tried so far are delicious. I look forward to trying more of them!
April 4, 2015
Brown Eggs and Jam Jars was a wonderful read. I loved reading about Aimee's urban homestead. I enjoy sharing homemade food with my family.
January 1, 2016
This is a good homestead cook book. The recipes don't require a bunch of hard to find ingredients.
March 27, 2015
A beautiful cookbook of photos and stories about homesteading in Quebec. I haven't tried any of the recipes yet, but they look fun and fresh.
May 12, 2015
Nice pictures, whole food recipes, amusing stories from her experiences. A nice cookbook.
April 28, 2015
another beautiful cookbook with pics divided up by season.
August 7, 2016
Such a beautiful cookbook. I love that this recipe collection is so different, yet so familiar.
May 20, 2015
This is a lovely cookbook but not for me. I prefer cookbooks organized by type as opposed to season.
December 15, 2015
I love cook books that are more than just recipies but that include discussions about ideas and concepts...
June 19, 2015
A library book that's going on my to-purchase list. Excellent cookbook.
June 22, 2015
A collection of recipes for anyone seeking to homestead. The book is nicely laid out with recipes and pictures.
September 29, 2016
Amazing cookbook - fantastic recipes, cooking/canning tips, gathering ideas, and also some great writings on living.
July 19, 2015
Every time I picked up this book, i thought of my friend Kate!
July 19, 2015
Some great recipes in here that I want to try.
December 4, 2016
Need to make that squash mac and cheese pronto
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews