Relaxed Cooking with Curtis Stone

Book excerpt: “For me, there are few things that are more relaxing than lingering at the table with good friends . . . But I know that for a lot of people, putting together a meal, especially for guests, is the opposite of relaxing . . . I’m here to tell you: It doesn’t have to be that way.” —from the Introduction Aussie Curtis Stone, host of TLC’s Take Home Chef, is best known for his laid-back approach to cooking. Though he’s worked as head chef in several Michelin-starred London restaurants, some of his most memorable meals are the ones he’s shared with friends at home. Now, Curtis shows you how to have as much fun in the kitchen as your guests are sure to have over a comfortable, unforgettable meal. In Relaxed Cooking with Curtis Stone, you’ll find everything from “First Thing in the Morning” bites and “Brunches to Blow Their Minds” to “Weekend Lunches” and “Something to Eat on the Sofa.” With the home cook in mind, Curtis avoids off-putting culinary lingo and hard-to-find ingredients. Instead, he picks what’s in season and just around the corner. This down-to-earth approach results in wonderfully interesting and flavorful taste combinations that are perfect for parties or just hanging out with a close friend or loved ones. Recipes include: • Caramelized Nectarines with Yogurt and Honey • Crispy Tortilla with Ham, Chile, Spinach, and Fried Eggs • Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad with Pepper-Crusted New York Steak • Pan-Fried Calamari with Roasted Asparagus Salad • Homemade Salted Caramel Popcorn • Baby Baked Potatoes with Sour Cream and Chives • Sticky Chicken Drumsticks • Red Curry with Lobster and Pineapple • Veal Cutlet Coated in an Aged Jack Cheese Crust • Slowly Cooked Brisket with a BBQ Bourbon Sauce • Creamy Mascarpone and Parsley Polenta • Brownie Cupcakes These delicious recipes and Curtis’s infectiously easygoing attitude are all it takes to end your entertaining stress and get you and your guests into a relaxing mood.