Title: Cooking By Methods
Author: Dr. Luis Mispireta
Publisher: Mispireta Family Foundation
ISBN: 978-1-970703-28-3
Pages: 380
Genre: Cookbook / Food Education
Reviewer: Beth Adams
Pacific Book Review
If there was only one cookbook to put in your kitchen bookcase, Cooking By Methods by Dr. Luis Mispireta would be the one to choose.
What makes this different from the thousands of other cookbooks out there is the level of basic understanding brought to the readers/chefs about the physics of heat, various timing of cooking, and the blending of ingredients in such a way that a foundation of an understanding will result which could be applied to every ingredient – as well as creating delicious dishes. Rather than simply listing ingredients and recommending temperature settings and cooking times, Dr. Luis Mispireta begins his book with the “why” explained to the readers instead of just the “how.”
How long do you cook an egg to have it soft-boiled? To cook a steak medium-rare, what should the internal temperature reach? How much oil should you use to dry roast vegetables not to make them soggy? Although many of us simply already know these details, it is always handy to have a reference available to double check. There are tables for roasting times, safe internal temperatures, and many more consolidated factual listings for virtually every style of cooking.
As an example, I made a Grouper and Shrimp with Maracuya (Passion Fruit), Honey, Mustard from the recipe and my family loved it. It took me somewhat out of my comfort zone as I never tried such a combination of flavors, and the result was astounding. I noticed a large proportion of the book deals with seafood recipes, although every category from steak to veal deals with appropriate ingredients into savory dishes.
The book is interlaced with photographs of the dishes plated beautifully and reminded me of an international menu, naming the dish and providing a picture. At the end of the book there is an extensive index providing a quick way to look up information which cross-references the table of contents. Dr. Luis Mispireta humbly lists credit to other reference sources where he obtained information.
It is recommended that the hardcopy of this book is purchased, as the layout is ideal for having open while cooking one of the hundreds of recipes. Cooking By Methods is a thoughtful gift to a couple embarking on a new chapter of their lives together as a wedding gift or bridal shower. No matter how much you think you know about cooking, readers will certainly find a wealth of information and techniques in this comprehensive work of revealing the secrets of food and preparation. By learning foundational methods, readers gain the skills to adapt, improvise, and create flavorful meals with ease. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this book offers a practical and empowering path to culinary mastery.
