Joshua Weissman: An Unapologetic Cookbook.
- Glow Grub
- Feb 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 10
Joshua Weissman: An Unapologetic Cookbook is not your typical cookbook—
it’s a bold, humorous, and unapologetically unique take on the culinary world. Joshua Weissman, a celebrated chef and YouTube personality, brings his personality and talent to the pages of this cookbook, offering a mix of restaurant-worthy recipes, witty commentary, and an emphasis on reclaiming the joy of cooking from scratch. Here’s a detailed review that dives into the recipe content, style, and practicality of this #1 New York Times bestseller.
Book Overview
Weissman sets the tone for the book with his irreverent humor and no-nonsense philosophy about cooking. The cookbook is divided into several sections, starting with an engaging introduction to kitchen basics and pantry essentials, followed by chapters that explore bread-making, sauces, meats, vegetables, desserts, and more. Unlike many other cookbooks, Weissman encourages readers to embrace the art of cooking by making ingredients and components from scratch—a theme that runs throughout the book.
Recipe Review
Here’s a closer look at some standout recipes from the book:
1. Buttery Brioche Bread
Weissman’s brioche recipe is a testament to his love for bread-making. The detailed instructions guide readers through the process of making fluffy, golden brioche from scratch. While it may seem intimidating at first, his conversational tone and clear step-by-step directions make it approachable. The end result? A rich, buttery bread that’s perfect for French toast, sandwiches, or just slathered with butter and jam.
Skill Level: Intermediate
Time Required: ~3-4 hours (including proofing)
Taste: Sublime, with a buttery and slightly sweet flavor.
2. Ramen from Scratch
This recipe is a showstopper. Weissman’s take on ramen involves making everything from the noodles to the broth at home. The broth, simmered for hours with bones and aromatics, is deeply flavorful, while the homemade noodles are springy and fresh. It’s a labor-intensive recipe, but the payoff is worth it for those who want to replicate authentic ramen at home.
Skill Level: Advanced
Time Required: Several hours to a day, depending on preparation.
Taste: Deep, umami-packed broth with perfectly chewy noodles.
3. Juicy Double Cheeseburger
Weissman’s unapologetic attitude shines in this recipe. Instead of buying pre-packaged ingredients, he insists on grinding your own meat, making your own buns, and even creating your own condiments. The result? A next-level cheeseburger that’s juicy, flavorful, and customizable to your preferences.
Skill Level: Moderate
Time Required: ~2-3 hours
Taste: A burger that’s leagues ahead of anything you’ll find at a fast-food joint.
4. Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Desserts in this book are equally ambitious, and the brown butter chocolate chip cookies are a standout. The recipe involves browning butter to enhance its nutty flavor, chilling the dough to maximize texture, and achieving the perfect balance of gooey center and crisp edges.
Skill Level: Easy to Moderate
Time Required: ~1-2 hours (including chilling time)
Taste: Sweet, nutty, and incredibly satisfying.
What Sets This Cookbook Apart?
1.Emphasis on Cooking from ScratchWeissman’s insistence on making everything from buns to condiments may seem daunting, but it’s also empowering. The recipes teach readers the value of understanding each component of a dish.
2.Humor and PersonalityWeissman’s trademark wit keeps the book engaging, even for those who might typically shy away from a cookbook. His personality shines through in every recipe, making the book as fun to read as it is to cook from.
3.Versatility and RangeFrom casual comfort food to elaborate dishes, there’s something for everyone in this cookbook. The recipes cater to a variety of tastes and skill levels, making it accessible for beginners while still challenging seasoned cooks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Clear, detailed instructions with a conversational tone.
High-quality photography that inspires you to dive into the recipes.
A great mix of ambitious and approachable dishes.
Cons:
Some recipes are time-intensive, which might not suit busy home cooks.
The focus on making everything from scratch might overwhelm beginners.
Final Verdict
Joshua Weissman: An Unapologetic Cookbook is a must-have for anyone who loves to cook, experiment, and learn more about the art of food. While it may not be ideal for those looking for quick, weeknight meals, it’s perfect for cooks who enjoy the process of creating meals from scratch and aren’t afraid to take on a challenge. With its unique combination of humor, creativity, and culinary expertise, it’s no wonder this book has earned its place as a #1 New York Times bestseller.
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