Living & Eating

by John Pawson, Annie Bell

As one of the world’s foremost proponents of minimalism, British architect John Pawson has spent his life trying to distill the world into its essentials. In his first cookbook, Pawson brings this philosophy of simplicity to the kitchen.

In Living & Eating , using methods similar to those he brings to structural design, John Pawson creates simple menus that underscore the unique character of each ingredient. Beginning with a sound foundation, Pawson advises us on the cornerstones of quality in food. In the recipes that follow, he emphasizes the strengths of particular ingredients. The simple poached egg, for example, relies on nothing more than fresh eggs, boiling water, and a splash of vinegar to attain its perfect degree of richness. A more complex dish, such as Lemon Risotto, blends the robust flavors of citrus zest, aged cheeses, and savory broth into a creamy mixture in which each element is maximized.

The color photographs that illustrate the book were taken in Pawson’s elegantly spare London townhouse and demonstrate perfectly his vision of uncluttered luxury. Separated into two main parts, Living & Eating covers both cooking and home design.

Genres: Cookbooks, Cooking, Food, Architecture

304 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2001

Reviews

[Sarah Jobson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Skip all the pretentious nonsense about lifestyles at the start. I don’t need to be dictated to about my choice of fork!!
But the recipes - they are a joy. This is one of my top 5 all time recipe books. Annie Bell is a genius, easy to follow, every recipe is spot on.
Highly recommend.

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is now a well-used book from kitchen shelf.

John Pawson and Annie Bell add a little style to everything. Vegetables and Salads are elevated from side dishes to events in themselves.

Favourite recipes include: a tomato based chicken stew with gremolata; salt baked whole fish; carrot and ginger soup; carrot and parsley salad, leeks braised in white wine; fish pie, chocolate ganache cake. I could go on....

At the back of the book is a handy menu plan in case you are stuck for ideas for a 'midweek supper with friends' or a 'sunday lunch'.

[Kidlitter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Guaranteed to send the reader round the twist with envy of Pawson's lifestyle. GAWD, the house is gorgeous and thanks to Annie Bell, the food matches up. Though I do imagine minions hovering outside the camera frame cleaning away the flecks of dirt or stray cutlery littering up the joint, I buy into this vision every time. Marie Kondo ain't got nothing on this kind of minimalism.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cookbook written by a visionary architect, beautiful writing about kitchens, food and tools in an elegant an minimal presentation - and a stunning chutney recipe to boot (p. 217) - what's not to like?

[James Moes · Rating 4 out of 5]

A minimalist manifesto as pertaining to both architecture of the home, food presentation/preparation, and social eating.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great advice for those looking to plan a kitchen and lovely, simple recipes.