From the cover of Essence to the stage at the Apollo, from reruns of her hit show The Parkers to her reality program Mo'Nique's F.A.T. Chance , Mo'Nique exults in the joys of being a large woman. Here, she explores the great love of her life—food. But this isn't food South Beach diet style. This is food with flavor, from chocolate and cream to sugar and butter and everything in between. In Skinny Cooks Can't Be Trusted , Mo'Nique's fondest food memories (like her mama's stuffed fish that blew up in the oven but made it to the table anyway) are accompanied by cooking tips (when in doubt, taste it to make sure), food strategies (gather everything in one place so you don't tire yourself out runnin' around the kitchen), and "what to wear if you're gonna go there" (because if done right, good food can lead to good lovin'!).
I was looking forward to this cookbook, as I have enjoyed Mo'Nique's appearances on television (and I love cookbooks!) I returned it to the library without finishing it, though, for a few reasons. I don't really like the format of the book: instead of being broken down into courses (appetizers, salads, main courses, etc), the book was divided into menus. I appreciate menu suggestions, but it's just not my favorite way to read through a cookbook. The first chapter, or menu, was entitled "Man-Catcher Menu". The second was "Morning After Menu.) Mo'Nique writes introductions to each of these chapters, and the intro to the second featured a poem written by Jill Scott as a special addition to the book. The poem was strongly sexually suggestive, using fruit as metaphors. Uh, gross. I don't want to read about someone's lady parts while I'm reading a cookbook. Unfortunately, that pretty much ruined the cookbook for me. I was too grossed out to continue. I tried skimming the rest of the book, but between the completely inappropriate poem and the fact that the format ALREADY irritated me, I just couldn't finish it. I'm really disappointed. I expected something better.
I love this chick. I think she is hilaaarious. I even liked the introductions to the chapters she wrote. But the recipes, man. With the exception of the oxtail stew I was really expecting more. Mo'Nique, come cook for me and prove me wrong!
Every time I think I've already seen the greatest book, show, product or whatever that's ever been made, something comes along to top it. My God, I love capitalism.
Literally the only cookbook you will ever need in life. This is one of the best purchases I’ve made because the book is so useful. I’m making meals I had never even heard about before. If you’re looking for a cookbook but aren’t sure which you should buy, buy this one it is so worth it.