Some of the books on our cookbook shelves wander in because they are or were all the rage, some are there because we’re interested in a particular cuisine. But some of there as part of our legacy of cooking and have become iconic. Join us as we discuss one of America’s iconic cookbooks. A cookbook that’s in its ninth edition and spans over nine decades of guiding home cooks from the oven to the table.
It’s A Family Affair
Come along for an account of what it took to create the ninth edition of Joy of Cooking as Leigh recounts her conversation with Authors John Becker and Megan Scott.
Joy of Cooking, having sold over 20 million copies since its first printing, is clearly one of America’s favorite cookbooks. And for good reason. The guardians of this cookbook have held it and a philosophy of ensuring its relevance throughout its life in much regard. Its a cookbook that has help see cooks through the Depression, WWII, the 60s and 70s, and a pandemic with wit, charm, and empathy.
We have much to say about this cookbook, hope you enjoy our conversation.
What people are saying - have said - about Joy
The Joy of Cooking is a combination of practicality and craft. For a sophisticated beginner, it's the only book you'll need; if you're experienced, you'll turn to it regularly. - Julia Child, renowned chef and author.
The Joy of Cooking is the greatest cookbook ever. It teaches you how to cook, but even more, it teaches you how to learn to cook. - Alton Brown, celebrity chef and television personality.
The Joy of Cooking is not just a cookbook; it's a source of endless pleasure and a practical guide for how to succeed in the kitchen. - Dorie Greenspan, award-winning cookbook author.
Joy is the single most useful cookbook ever. - Jeffrey Steingarten, food writer and author.
It's the one book that if I could only have one cookbook, it would be 'The Joy of Cooking.’ - Ina Garten, celebrity chef and author.
Joy of Cooking has a profound influence on American cooking, and its versatility and range have been celebrated for generations. - Food & Wine Magazine.
The Joy of Cooking is as American as the Stars and Stripes. It has the authority that only the greatest books achieve: it has survived. - Craig Claiborne, renowned food writer.
Episode Transcript
🎧 Click here for the full, interactive transcript of this episode 🎧
Stand Facing The Stove by Anne Mendelson
Purchase: Bookshop.org OR Amazon.com
Ode to Joy - Food & Wine online
Mentioned in the episode Musical, I Am Betty
The Joy of Cooking by Irma Rombauer and Co
Purchase: Bookshop.org OR Amazon.com - Facsimile of 1931 edition: Bookshop.org OR Amazon
Stand Facing The Stove by Anne Mendelson
Purchase: Bookshop.org OR Amazon.com
Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Louisette Bertholle, Simone Beck
Purchase: Bookshop.org OR Amazon.com
The Settlement Cookbook by Mrs. Simon Kander (Lizzie Black Kander)
Purchase: Bookshop.org OR Amazon.com
EP 55 Refinding Home: Edna Lewis, The Taste of Country Cooking, and Me
EP 62 Unveiling the Rich Tapestry of Chinese Cuisine with Red and White Cooking
EP 69 Cooking Up Integration: The Settlement Cookbook
Join us in two weeks for our next episode on Joy of Cooking when Kim shares her experience with the recipe that she has chosen to make from this iconic cookbook.
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EP 73 From Grief to Joy: A Cookbook that became A Family Affair