This handsome hardback takes you on a journey of Copenhagen’s culinary traditions from breakfast to lunch to dinner and everything in between, including ‘smokehouses’, which is smoked food. In the book the authors share why Danes embrace their food heritage so passionately, food that centres around ‘hygge’, the cosy atmosphere that the Danes are well known for creating. Imagine shared tables, eating outside with friends and family, and enjoying the best of local produce – and you will understand the concept of this cookbook.
Copenhagen features traditional dishes with a modern twist, and recipes from contemporary Copenhagen restaurants. The recipes that stand out to me are: Wienerbrod Plaited Fruit Danish, Fresh Cod with Chickpeas, Rygeost Hay-Smoked Cheese, Karrysild Curried Herring, Beef Tartare with Fried Onion Rings and Karameller Homemade Caramels.
The photography in Copenhagen is very attractive, and I especially liked the inclusion of location shots from around the city, which gives the book a great sense of place. The layout of the recipes is practical, clear and concise. All in all, this is a cookbook to recommend, and one that will look as good shown off on the coffee table in your lounge, as well as being used in the kitchen.
Reviewer: Iain McKenzie
Published by Murdoch Books