They say that apples never fall far from the tree - but I have no doubt that apples in the Oliver family get snapped up for Sunday brunch, or Apple Pie. Buddy Oliver’s debut cookbook, "Let’s Cook," is a vibrant, engaging guide aimed at inspiring the next generation of chefs. As the son of the renowned Jamie Oliver, Buddy brings his unique charm and fresh perspective to the culinary world, making cooking accessible and enjoyable for children and their families.
Buddy Oliver, despite his tender age, has already made a name for himself in the culinary community. Growing up in a food-loving family and cooking alongside his famous father, Buddy has honed his skills from a very young age. His experience shines through in "Let’s Cook," which is an extension of his popular YouTube channel, Cooking Buddies, where he delights over 130,000 subscribers with his simple yet delicious recipes.
"Let’s Cook" is crafted with beginners in mind, particularly young aspiring chefs. The book features over 60 exciting recipes, each designed to be fun to make and delicious to eat. The recipes are straightforward, with clear instructions that make it easy for children to follow along and build their kitchen confidence. Buddy’s enthusiasm and passion for cooking are evident in every page, encouraging kids to explore the joy of creating their own meals.
The cookbook is structured to take readers on a culinary adventure, divided into various chapters that cover a wide range of meals and snacks. From breakfast and brunch to family favourites, the book provides a comprehensive guide to daily meals. Notably, it includes a dedicated pasta chapter, a selection of seasonal favourites, quick after-school snacks, and delightful puddings and party treats.
One of the standout features of "Let’s Cook" is its accessibility. Buddy ensures that all recipes use common ingredients that can be found in most households, making it easier for families to get cooking. The book is peppered (sorry!) with helpful hints and tips from Buddy, making the cooking process even more enjoyable and manageable for young chefs. The enticing photography adds to the appeal, showcasing the vibrant and delicious dishes that kids can create.
Among the variety of recipes, some standout favourites include Quick and Easy Pizzas, Fish Finger Sarnies, Barbecued Chicken Lollipops, The Ultimate Burger, and Choccy Microwave Mug Cake. These dishes not only taste great but also teach essential cooking skills that children can build on as they grow more confident in the kitchen.
"Let’s Cook" is perfect for followers of Buddy’s YouTube channel, as well as any children and parents looking to develop their cooking skills together. Buddy’s approach to cooking is inclusive and fun, emphasising that cooking doesn’t always go as planned, but that’s part of the learning process. His infectious enthusiasm makes the book a delightful read and an excellent resource for families wanting to spend quality time together in the kitchen.
Buddy Oliver’s "Let’s Cook" is a delightful and educational cookbook that promises to inspire young chefs. With its easy-to-follow recipes, helpful tips, and vibrant photography, it’s a fantastic tool for building kitchen confidence and creating delicious meals. Buddy’s passion for cooking is evident throughout the book, making it a must-have for any family looking to embark on a culinary adventure together.
Reviewer: Chris Reed
Penguin