Modern Cookery for Private Families

Modern Cookery for Private Families Eliza Acton Title Page 1860

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Eliza Acton Modern Cookery 1847 cover

Copper Fish or Ham Kettle Eliza Acton

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John Dory Eliza Acton

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Eliza Acton Orange Jellies 1845

Modern Cookery for Private Families is a cookbook by Eliza Acton, first published in 1845. The book is significant in the history of British cuisine and has been described as one of the earliest cookbooks aimed at the domestic reader rather than the professional cook or chef. This pioneering work introduced the now-standard practice of listing ingredients and suggested cooking times with each recipe. It was also one of the first to include recipes for curry and pasta, showing the beginning of the integration of foreign dishes into British cooking.

Overview

Modern Cookery for Private Families was a departure from the cookbooks of its time, which were primarily written by male chefs for professional kitchens. Acton's book was aimed at the middle-class housewife and was designed to be practical and easy to use, with simple instructions and a focus on using seasonal and readily available ingredients. The book covers a wide range of recipes, including soups, meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, puddings, cakes, and preserves. Acton also included chapters on foreign dishes, carving, and the management of the kitchen, making it a comprehensive guide for its time.

Influence and Legacy

Eliza Acton's approach to recipe writing, with clear instructions and a focus on the domestic cook, was innovative and has had a lasting impact on cookbook format and culinary writing. Her method of listing ingredients separately from the instructions has become a standard format in cookbooks and recipe writing worldwide. Modern Cookery for Private Families remained popular throughout the 19th century and has been reprinted numerous times, with editions appearing well into the 20th century.

The book not only influenced home cooking in Britain but also had an impact on other famous cooks and food writers. Isabella Beeton, whose book Mrs Beeton's Book of Household Management is another cornerstone of British culinary literature, was said to have been influenced by Acton's work.

Editions and Reprints

Since its initial publication in 1845, Modern Cookery for Private Families has seen numerous editions and reprints, reflecting its continued popularity and relevance. These editions often included updates to recipes and additional chapters to reflect changing tastes and advancements in kitchen technology.

Cultural Significance

Modern Cookery for Private Families is not just a cookbook; it is a historical document that offers insight into Victorian society, the role of women in the home, and the evolution of British cuisine. It reflects a time when the middle class was growing, and there was a demand for literature that catered to the domestic sphere. The book's emphasis on practicality, economy, and the use of seasonal ingredients also speaks to a shift in attitudes towards cooking and food consumption.

See Also

• British cuisine
• Cookbook
• Eliza Acton
• Isabella Beeton
• Mrs Beeton's Book of Household Management

External links

• Wikibooks article on Modern Cookery for Private Families
• Wikipedia's article on Modern Cookery for Private Families