The Naked Chef by Jamie Oliver

The Naked Chef
Jamie Oliver
Published by Penguin Michael Joseph
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The man’s much maligned, largely because of his success. But I personally think he’s the best TV cook and food ambassador Britain’s ever had, so it made sense to include one of his books in here.

This one’s the first one. Perhaps some of the later collections are better (Jamie at Home, perhaps?), but there’s something about the raw energy of this. The recipes in it are pretty timeless too.

Who should have it?

Cooks looking for tasty and achievable food.

Recipes to look out for

Beetroot tagliatelle with pesto, mussels and white wine; the various ways to add to a roast leg of lamb; the risottos; the simple chocolate tart.

If you’re already a fan

Jamie at Home; Jamie’s Italy; Moro, the Cookbook