Easy Entertaining by Darina Allen – review
The words “easy” and “entertaining” are not often found in close proximity to each other but here they are in cosy partnership as the title for this wonderful book from Ireland’s Queen of Cuisine Darina Allen. This lady never disappoints, and the photography by Peter Cassidy is crisp and stunning.
Easy Entertaining is not only a cookbook, it also has styling and presentation suggestions. It’s a one-stop entertaining manual that will give the novice party-giver some confidence and the seasoned bash-thrower a different perspective. There are over 250 stress-free recipes to enhance any occasion.
Darina offers advice on menu planning, creating atmosphere (I personally am not keen on mirror disco balls), getting the party going, and choosing wine and drinks. If you are new to entertaining then you should read these chapters before you buy the crate of Newcastle Brown and the cheese puffs.
The most challenging element of your venture will be deciding what type of “do” will be most appropriate for your guests. If the average age of those friends is 5 ¾ years then you might consider looking at the Children’s Food chapter rather than Formal Suppers. A Big Brunch could be the way to go if you have family who have a long drive home, and Prepare-ahead Suppers will give you no-fuss dishes for those evenings when time is an issue.
Mix and match
The recipes are broad-based and exciting. You can mix and match all of these. Icky Sticky Sausage Wraps from the Children’s Food chapter could be used as part of an adult brunch. Gateau Pithivier with Gruyere and Ham from the Portable Food chapter could easily be enjoyed as part of a formal supper. Darina Allen isn’t going to come round and smack your leg (not legal now) if you have your own menu combinations.
I’d be happy to munch my way through all these recipes. There are stylish snacks like Rory’s Spicy Popcorn which couldn’t be easier. The spices in question are chilli, pepper, cumin, curry powder, fresh ginger and garlic. Mouth-watering! Temari Sushi (Clingfilm Sushi) is new to me but what a great idea. Sushi rice is formed using the aforementioned clingfilm. Attractive little balls are simple to produce and a lot less terrifying than the usual rolled varieties of sushi.
The Slow Food chapter has some comforting winter warmers. Beef and Oxtail Stew with Parsnip Mash isn’t difficult to make and has a rich texture and flavour. What could be better on a cold night, followed by Steamed Sultana Pudding? Then there is Slow-roasted Shoulder of Lamb with Cumin Seeds. Now, this is almost no-cooking cooking. Put in a low oven and leave for a few hours. Your kitchen will be filled with the most delicious aromas.
Easy Entertaining isn’t just for entertaining. It’s simply a great cookbook with inspiring recipes that will become family favourites. Another success, Darina!
Easy Entertaining
Author: Darina Allen
Published by: Kyle Cathie
Price: £16.99
ISBN 978-1-85626-761-8
See more books by Darina Allen here
Read more on Irish food and Irish chefs here
Cookbook review by Chrissie Walker © 2018
