Chocolate Desserts by Pierre Herme
May 28, 2009
Ok, I must confess – I am not at all objective about Pierre Herme. I am a huge fan – huge huge huge huge! I can read a recipe I have never seen before, and know that it is his work. What makes sense to him makes sense to me, so I have a total affinity with his work and understand his methodology completely.
This book – ‘Chocolate Desserts by Pierre Herme’- is written/translated by the excellent food writer Dorie Greenspan, making it is a pleasure to read, technically correct, eminently readable and enjoyable. The artistic layout is excellent, and the pictures are superb and inviting – an awesome example of how a dessert book should be. They make a great team.
Every pastry chef needs good foundation recipes, and Pierre’s are excellent, from sweet and sable dough to cream, mousse, ganache and puff pastry. Not all the recipes are to my personal liking, but most I find delicious and inspirational – I love his St. Honoré Cake (and chocolate St. Honoré Cake), Profiteroles, many more.
Best of all, his books are wonderfully detailed. He explains each facet of his recipes thoroughly, elaborating on why he takes each step; most recipes span two or more pages of quality instructional advice. For each dessert type, he explores a wide range of options – chocolate cakes, cookies, tarts, puddings, creams, custards, mousses, truffles, candies, ice cream, frozen chocolate, and chocolate drinks are featured in recipes ranging from simple to sophisticated.
I could rave about Pierre Herme all day! All of his books are both inexpensive and invaluable; Chocolate Desserts will make a delicious addition to any bookshelf. Completely and whole-heartedly recommended.