Comments on: Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics, Ina Garten | 2008 | US

By: Mark Manguerra

Mark Manguerra — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 02:20:17 +0000

Hi John, thanks for the input. I never mentioned anything about diet food- it’s hyperbolic to assume that anything sensible is already “diet.” While many cookbooks indeed have recipes published online, in principle it was quite a turn-off (as in, “want to complete this recipe? Get my other book off the shelf.”).
In any case, I only give enough information for readers to formulate their own opinions about the book and whether it’s worth it to buy (or look up the recipes on the internet, it appears), but whatever doesn’t work for me might work for you. I appreciate your comment.

By: John

John — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 20:48:02 +0000

So far I have been very happy with this cookbook (I have Barefoot at home as well and like it too). Personally I dont reach for her cookbooks for making diet food. I go to them for delicious dependable recipies. The references to her other books are easily taken care of with the internet and good old google. That was how I made her gravy for the turkey roulade. This was a delicious dish and the gravy complimented it very well.

By: Sara

Sara — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 23:25:55 +0000

I’m so glad I read this review, I’m always tempted by Ina’s cookbooks, especially because the photos make everything looks so gosh darn amazing. I own Barefoot in Paris, and I find I only actually make the lighter recipes (her Zucchini Vichyssoise only calls for 2 tbsp of cream, for example), but you’re right that the heavier dishes are on the outrageous side. Thank you!

By: Ted

Ted — Wed, 20 May 2009 21:51:58 +0000

I really love Ina, and her previous cookbooks. Surprisingly, I found this one to be superior to her last one. I own all of her books, and have entertained with recipes from the first four books. It must be hard to keep churning out cookbooks. It is possible her best stuff was used in her first four books. Try those.
They are great…..

By: Amelita (Squishy)

Amelita (Squishy) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 22:30:32 +0000

Very well written review. I perceive that it is all a marketing plot with the references to previous books. I don’t own one of her books but had always thought I might like to, but after reading your review my perception has changed. I love her on TV though and I always think its funny when she measures her hers in a tablespoon or teaspoon measure. Well Done!

By: Coby

Coby — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 11:08:30 +0000

Informative and helpful review. Having one Barefoot book already, (that I’ve only used once) it seems I will not soon be adding to my collection. I might add, the first image you have there, of the Tuscan Lemon Chicken does look wonderful though.

By: y

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 05:55:09 +0000

I definitely don’t think you were the target market for this book, Mark!

By: Sarah

Sarah — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 12:33:41 +0000

Great review. I love her shows, but have not yet been tempted to purchase one of her books. If I did, I guess I’d probably start with another one.

xox Sarah

By: Elra

Elra — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 23:16:45 +0000

Good review Mark. Fortunately, I own none of her cookbook.
Cheers,
Elra