Cookbook: Purer

Purer: The Cooking, Wine & Spirits Bible is from the Restaurant De Librije (in english, The Library). De Librije is a three Michelin star restaurant in Zwolle, the Netherlands run by Jonnie and Therese Boer.

I have enjoyed a meal here in early 2008 and more recently decided to purchase one of the published books from the chef (Jonnie Boer). My experience there was, without a doubt, the finest meal that I have ever had. The food is actually quite simple, focusing mostly on great ingredients with expert preperation. Of the 'great' restuarants (i.e. 2/3 Michelin stars, etc) I have eaten at it is the least pretentious.

This book explains the philosophy of Jonnie and his wife Therese, the owners. Incidentally, they were both there for my visit (Therese was very active in the front of the house, Jonnie seemed to ask every guest if they were enjoying their meal) and I suspect this is almost always the case. Honest and down to earth not only explains their food, but also the entire dining experience. For me this is the standard by which I judge other food experiences.

The recipes will be hard to replicate at home as listed (they rely on many ingredients that are local to the area where De Librije is located, Zwolle), however the ideas and techniques I believe can and should be adapted by others to other sets of local ingredients. Amazing photography throughout the book gives you a very good sense of the food, and many stories shine additional light on certain ingredients.

This isn't a book for someone wanting to follow a simple recipe - but I think its commentary on philosophy and the photos/techniques will give inspiration to anyone willing to spend some time with this book.

An added bonus is that Therese has written an included wine booklet (included in the front cover of the book) which is excellent. I haven't read that much on wine, but I thought it was a great overview packed with information.