Simon Hopkinson's 40 favourite ingredients include such everyday basics as potatoes, chicken and cod as well as more exotic foods such as asparagus and truffles. The book is arranged alphabetically with a chapter on each food. Unable to hide his great love of food, Hopkinson writes about why he likes each particular ingredient, and gives sesnsible advice on quality, variety and good cooking principles together with a selection of his recipes. The book is aimed at home cooks and all the recipes can be prepared by anyone with basic cooking skills. From grilled aubergine with pesto to roast chicken and homemade ice-cream, Simon Hopkinson's food is designed to please rather than simply impress.