The Modern Housewife or MÉNAGÈRE; Comprising NEARLY ONE THOUSAND RECEIPTS for the Economic and Judicious PREPARATION OF EVERY MEAL OF THE DAY, and those for THE NURSERY AND SICK ROOM; with minute directions for Family Management in all its branches
London: Simpkin, Marshall, & Co., 1849. Second Edition. Hardcover. 441 pages. 19 x 13 cm. In this playful but extensive cook book, Soyer utilizes the conversation between two women to bring the everyday language into the text. Mrs. L. and Mrs. B. speak of the their own trials and tribulations while cooking and keeping house. The recipes and instructions read as if someone was standing next to you, giving you advice and encouragement. This book was Soyer's attempt to bring Gourmet cooking into every home. The author's invention of the "Soyer Stove" is frequently introduced as a economical and sanitary device within an everyday household.
Alexis Soyer (1810-1858), author of "The Gastronomic Regenerator" and many other books, was an early "Celebrity Chef". Soyer was a renowned French chef and prolific inventor, creating devices such as the "Soyer Stove", a portable cooking stove that became widely used by the British Army during the Crimean War alongside Florence Nightingale. He developed field kitchens that improved the quality and safety of soldiers' meals. During the Irish Potato Famine (1845-1852), Soyer traveled to Ireland to establish soup kitchens and became the first "celebrity chef" to use his fame for social good. The book is illustrated throughout. Interior has some foxing, mainly at the rear of the book. Penciled on the interior of the back cover - "binding repaired, Norwalk, James Mcdonald, May 1988." Boards toned. [BITTING 443]. Green embossed cloth covered boards, spine decorated in gilt. Good. Item #4505
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