"Knowing how to entertain for that special date or for a large crowd is the epitome of being a gentleman. There is no stronger way to impress someone than by showcasing your culinary skills. Bachelor Chef and culinary instructor David Harap has created a series of menus that any man can make his own. This book helps men create unforgettable meals for their guests without stress or needing years of cooking school. In addition to many exciting recipes for every occasion, that are tons of tips and secrets on how to become the ultimate host. Memorable meals made easy."
Each of the 16 chapters serve as the perfect party planner from idea to clean-up. If I had to pick out a chapter or two that I liked best, it would definitely be Chapter 3 Superbowl / March Madness and Chapter 9 Cooking with the Kiddos. The easy to make edamame dip was a hit during our Superbowl party. Hubby and I have this restaurant we frequent on our date nights and I ordered the edamame appetizer. He never had edamame in the pod and didn't notice me removing the beans from the pod before eating. He swallowed a piece of the pod and started choking. After helping him catch his breath and explaining the pod is not typically eaten, we had the biggest laugh. So, when I told him I was making edamame dip, he jokingly reminded me to shell them. I didn't have the heart to tell him I bought SHELLED edamame for my dip. *smile*
Anyhoo, the dip turned out great PLUS it was super easy to make as are most of the recipes in Entertain Like a Gentleman. Another fab feature of the book is the shopping lists which can be torn out and taken with you so you don't forget a single item. Entertain Like a Gentleman includes some fab tips like asking guests if they have any dietary restrictions. This used to be a common oversight until a lot of my guests started foregoing my desserts because they were watching their sugar intake so I started including sugar free desserts at our parties and our guests took notice. Also, taking stock of pantry items you have on hand. I'd hate to find out I was out of nutmeg just as I was whipping up a batch of pumpkin muffins found on page 166.
Overall a great reference book for the novice entertainer or the party pro and those in-between and given the author's background, David Harap knows what he's talking about and does a great job helping other navigate party planning from prep to clean-up.
Buy it:
Disclosure: Many thanks to the publisher for the opportunity to review this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book for purposes of facilitating this review. The views expressed above are mine.
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