Cookbooks For Christmas 2018

It's time to think about Christmas gifts, although I must admit to having started my festive shopping long ago. I can't resit a bargain, and if it will keep until December, then I buy it! However, I can't say the same for books. The most recently published cookbook is a must for any family member or friend whose life revolves around the kitchen. There are lots of new cookbooks on the shelves this Christmas and it's hard to choose which to buy. Here's a few to mull over in the next few days as you decide on the ideal present for that amateur chef in your family.

'A Taste of Italy' by Jamie Oliver (£26, Michael Joseph)
This book follows Jamie's recent TV programme where he took us on guided tour of Italian cooking with his friend and mentor, Gennaro Contaldo. He shares the recipes they learnt from the 'nonnas' - the masters of pasta who cook the family recipes passed down from generation to generation. This is the ultimate guide to Italian cooking and contains many easy day-to-day dishes.

'Bread and Butter' by Richard Snaps, Grant Harrington & Eve Hemingway (£22, Quadrille)
There is nothing like making your own bread and butter - how to impress your dinner guests. This book has a wide range of different loaves and butter based recipes and what to do with the leftovers. If you haven't tried scones made with buttermilk then you have missed out. 

'Khazana' by Saliha Mahmood Ahmed (£25, Hodder & Stoughton)
Every MasterChef winner has to publish a book! Here's the 2017 winner's debut publication, inspired by the opulent Mughal empire and her travels across India (Is there a TV programme here somewhere?). The book has the perfect blend of flavours - curries, rice, samosas, and all that we associate with great Indian cuisine The samosas with saffron, almonds and pomegranate look delicious.

'The Happy Pear' by David & Stephen Fry (£18.95, Penguin Ireland)
With its sub title, 'Recipes For Happiness' this cookbook by the kings of vegetarian cooking, the Irish twins, David and Stephen, crams serious favours and passion into a wide range of recipes. There are curries, pasta dishes, noodles and burgers that are actually good for you. This is the Fry's third book and their best!

'Together' by The Hubb Community Kitchen (£9.99, Ebury Press)
If you want to support a great cause and benefit the dedication of a team of community cooks, then look no further than this incredible little book. A collection of recipes from women affected by the Grenfell Tower fire, who started cooking for their families and neighbours at a community kitchen nearby after many of them lost their homes. Profits from the book will help to fund the kitchen. 

Which will you buy this Christmas?