If you’re ready to take your cooking skills up a notch, we’re here to help. With this book as your guide, you’ll become more confident in the kitchen as well as seriously up your cooking game, while having tons of fun along the way.

This inspiring and helpful cookbook encourages you to leave any kitchen fears behind—and create fabulous food with ease. Throughout these pages, we walk you through key basic cooking techniques and show how to make recipes you’ll enjoy both cooking and eating: easy eggs Benedict with blender hollandaise; simple Pad Thai; homemade French fries with spicy ketchup; warming short rib ragù; garlic-braised chicken; gorgonzola-stuffed potatoes; butterscotch pudding; and many more fresh and flavorful dishes.

Each chapter features a single cooking technique accompanied by step-by-step directions and photos, so it’s easy to learn. You’ll master sautéing, stir-frying, frying, braising, simmering & poaching, and steaming with just a basic set of pots and pans on hand—no fancy equipment is required. The lessons also reveal secrets to success, detail any tools needed, demystify confusing terms, and outline essential dos and don’ts. Think of this book as a personal cooking class, working your way through each lesson and the subsequent recipes, to gain more confidence in the kitchen.

After reading the technique primers, move on to try the easy, modern recipes that are equally suited for everyday meals or to showcase your cooking to friends and family. Each of the 60 recipes includes bonus information such as how to make the dish into a complete meal; ideas for vegetarians; and tips for buying the right ingredients. No matter what the occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just trying to get dinner on the table, this book will guide you through real-life cooking situations.

Whether you’re a cooking novice who wants to learn the basics, or you’re looking for a new collection of great recipes to hone your skills, this book is for you. The combination of crave-worthy dishes and detailed lessons guarantees renewed confidence—and delicious, homemade meals. Anybody can learn to cook good food!