Aran: Recipes and Stories from a Bakery in the Heart of Scotland Hardcover – Illustrated, April 7, 2020

This was a gift, but the recipes look amazing!

This is not quite the traditional cookbook. The text does include lots of recipes for baked goods, and information about traditional ingredients used in Scottish baking. The author has nicely mixed in her experiences running a bakery on a beautiful island in Southwest Scotland, where the clientele includes her neighbors and the many visitors to the island. The narrative is quite interesting, and the photography may tempt the experienced traveler to undertake the journey. Well recommended as something different in a cookbook.

Cooped up and on lock down as we all are with corona virus swirling around, this cook book inspired me to cook but, alas, I don't have some of the ingredients and although I am confident in my ability to substitute and make do I love the look of what is shown in the photos and thinking how delicious one of those sandwiches or pastries would be right now! A brioche with sweet butter, or some toasted bread with butter and jam, or one of the tarts.A real delight and I wish that I could go to the bakery in person! Right now!

Worldwide there has been a movement towards a more traditional method of breadmaking using sourdough starters and natural fermentation. Even though I've been making bread for years, I always used commercial yeast.Aran, along with another book called Southern Ground, provide real technical insight into this new trend along with some great recipes.I have used Carol Field's Genoa focaccia recipe for many years so when I saw the recipe for focaccia in Aran, I saw I would start there.Honestly, it was like baking a very moist Italian biga (starter). It was a two day process but the results were outstanding. The loaf had a great crust and very light, flavorful crumb. There was a very slight tang in the flavor. Really good.For me this book has really changed the way I look at bread. For any home baker, wsnting to expand their knowledge and skills. I highly recommend this book and Southern Ground as well! The sources for handmilled grains listed in the book is worth the price!

Great book and recipes. Very approachable and easily adaptable!

I'm of divided mind about it. Was expecting something more traditional I think. I have made the country loaf and it was excellent. Not a fan of the 2 shortbread recipes, I have a favourite one I always use. I will try some of the cakes in tins. I did enjoy the story and the photos.

Enjoyable to read and great quality printing. Well done.

I am in love with everything in this book - the recipes, the photos, the stories, the aesthetic. Fantastic book!