Eat Up New Zealand by Al Brown is the latest stunning cookbook by the much-loved Kiwi chef, out now from Allen and Unwin books, and I think it would make a perfect Christmas gift for someone you love, who loves food – or of course, for yourself!
Al Brown is a fave NZ chef of mine and I love going to his Federal Street Auckland restaurant Depot Eatery, (pictured above), as well as his Best Ugly bagel store in City Works and I have copies of his bestselling books Go Fish and Stoked.
Now, Al Brown has released Eat Up New Zealand, a tribute to the nation’s food and its people in chapters with one word headings such as seafood, bird, animal, vege, pudding, whipped cream, bakes, preserves and more; and over 150 recipes.
Eat Up New Zealand by Al Brown is not just great recipes, it contains beautiful food photography and location shots from around the country. It would also make a perfect gift for people going overseas as it is a real taste of New Zealand literally and metaphorically. It respects the Kiwi past with updated classics including roast lamb, pies, flounder, corned beef, pikelets, cheese scones, feijoa and tamarillo desserts with contemporary style.
Al himself says there’s no need for gimmicks; as long as you respect the huge flavour that naturally occurs in our produce, you can cook great food.
I swear, do not look at this cookbook whilst hungry, it is dangerous!
As well as cooking, there’s a section on baking too, with modern classics such as these cranberry and orange scones. I’ll pop the jug on.
Eat Up New Zealand is available now for $65 from Allen and Unwin and good book retailers. For more info and where to buy, see www.allenandunwin.co.nz
Photos Megan Robinson
27th November 2017