Fantastic book
I just used Hors d'Oeuvres to throw a party for between 60 and 70 people. It was an invaluable resource. Not only are the recipes excellent, they include helpful guides on planning ahead and alternative ingredient ideas for added diversity. The recipes are uncomplicated and each one has a beautiful color photograph. This is definitely my new favorite party cookbook!
Fabulous-Hors D' oeurvres
Hors D'oeuvres
The Hors D'oeuvres in Hors d'Oeuvres are fabulous and very easy. All my guest love the Hors D'oeuvres that I have made from Hors d'Oeuvres. You will love it too!
Love this book!
I bought Hors d'Oeuvres based on the reviews. It did not dissappoint. The pictures and written instructions are great. I like entertaining and needed some new ideas for quick, small bites that could also be somewhat prepped ahead of time. Hors d'Oeuvres provides those tips and the additional info so you know which recipes will work best for you and your time parameters. I am looking forward to sampling at least 80% of the mouth watering recipes in Hors d'Oeuvres. The presentation level or "the look" of the various offerings is high. It is visually sophisticated....yet uncomplicated. Seriously....get the book.
More work than you think
It is great that there are pictures with every recipe, but they can be deceiving. Hors d'oeuvres take time and patience to prepare and unless you only plan on making one for a party forget it. Only the recipes that use puff pastry, filo dough, or pre-made tartlets are good for any event that you actually want to be able to enjoy with your guests. The pages on ingredients, techniques, and tools are a nice touch and helpful to those with questions. For the multitude of recipes in Hors d'Oeuvres the price is extremely fair even if only you make 10 items out of it.
The Best "Do Ahead"
I go to Hors d'Oeuvres time & time again. The biggest praise I have is the preparation. Having your snacks done in advance is a big plus. This has the most realistic recipes for a "chef & hostess" in one. It really is worth having. My favorites are the "Ginger Chicken Cakes", "Fennel marinated Feta" & "Filo Tartlets". If you are looking at: Small Bites by Jen Joyce is good too, but it is based more on "small bites". It shows good do aheads too, but lots of the recipe's need silverware & plates/bowls to serve. Hors D'Oeuvres is better suited for picking up with your hand and popping in your mouth with only a bamboo skewer or cocktail napkin needed.
