A friend in the kitchen : $b or, What to cook and how to cook it

by Anna L. (Anna Letitia) Colcord

"A Friend in the Kitchen; Or, What to Cook and How to Cook It" by Anna L. Colcord is a practical cookbook written in the late 19th century. This guide aims to provide readers with a comprehensive collection of about 400 recipes, along with plain directions for healthful cookery, proper food combinations, and nutritional advice, making it an essential resource for families looking to improve their culinary skills. The opening of the book sets the tone by emphasizing the importance of healthful cooking in everyday life. Colcord discusses the relationship between the type of food one consumes and overall physical and moral well-being, advocating for simple, wholesome dishes over overly elaborate meals. The author expresses a sincere goal of assisting housewives in making informed decisions about their cooking, ensuring that they can prepare nourishing and delicious meals for their families. Additionally, she stresses the necessity of teaching younger generations the art of good cooking, preparing readers for the various recipes and health considerations that follow in this volume.