Customer Reviews

The Cape Cod Christmas Cookbook

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I received "The Cape Cod Christmas Cookbook" by Mark Jasper as a gift this past Christmas, and although Christmas is in the title, there are holiday recipes in this book that are good throughout the year! I have made and enjoyed several recipes, especially baked goods such as: Cranberry-Walnut Morning Cake, Rachel's Banana Bread and Cliff's Blueberry Muffins. But there are also lovely main courses including: Christmas Cranberry Chicken, Clam Pie and the Butternut Squash Casserole, all of which make easy and hearty meals for these bitter months ahead!

I'd highly recommend this enchanting volume to anyone who enjoys cooking or for anyone who'd like some secret recipes from some of our famous inns and restaurants here on Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Although the book includes a few good recipes, the directions on many of the recipes are incomplete or take a lot of interpretation. Also, the addition of cranberries to a standard recipe does not make it either christmasy or from Cape Cod. I have spent the last 28 summers on Cape Cod, and can attest that there are significantly better recipes out there, as well as better written cookbooks. It was a disapponting book.

Author Mark Jasper and folk artist Holly Shaker dish (or is that "shake?") it out. And then some. They serve up a most winning menu: tasty recipes (think "Sandwich Glass Pie" and "Lobster Cheesecake") from some of the best local taverns, inns and eateries. There's a heaping side dish of whimsical, wondrous illustrations ... think piping plovers running off with Christmas decorations and mice imbibing in hot chocolate. Perfect fare for those fond of sand dunes, salty air and lobsta stew, served by a window with an ocean view. Seconds, anyone?

I have a large cooking library, so pick and choose before adding another book. This is a great seasonal addition.