DISCORD
Sift
Nicola Lamb
Apple Books
59 Min Reading Time
Audio Version Available
About this book
JAMES BEARD AWARD WINNER • An “informative, enriching, and delicious” (Yotam Ottolenghi) guide to baking that combines easy-to-follow, science-based advice with 100 reliable recipes for both novices and more experienced bakers, from the renowned pastry chef behind the Kitchen Projects newsletter. “ Sift is a marvel of completeness, sound advice, encouragement, and joy. We’re so lucky to have this book!”—Dorie Greenspan, New York Times bestselling author of Baking with Dorie Sift begins with the foundational ingredients that underpin great bakes—flour, sugar, eggs, fat—before delving into the techniques that bring recipes to life: texture, color, how things rise, and a technical overview. 100 tested, tried, and true recipes follow and are organized by difficulty and time commitment, ranging from easy 30-minute cakes to spectacular showstoppers you can devote a weekend to, including: • Bake in an afternoon: Marble Cake with Chocolate Frosting, Lemon Curd Meringue Tarts with Blackberries, Miso Walnut Double-Thick Chocolate Chip Cookies • Bake in a day: Mango Shortcake with Candied Lime, Fancy Rhubarb Tart, Olive Oil Brie-oche with Roasted Grapes, Honey, and Thyme • Bake in a weekend: 3-Day Focaccia; Pain au Chocolat; Classic Fruit Custard Danish Gorgeous photos accompany every recipe and the infographic-style illustrations help home bakers easily grasp the hows and whys of baking so they can tackle any project with confidence.
Summary of Key Ideas
- •
Demystifying Baking Through Science
Baking as a Science: "Sift" emphasizes the scientific principles underlying baking. It delves into the chemical reactions and physical transformations that occur when ingredients interact, offering insights into how different components affect the final product. This approach empowers bakers to understand why recipes work and how to troubleshoot when things go wrong. Lamb elucidates the roles of ingredients like flour, sugar, and fat, and explains how techniques such as mixing and proofing influence texture and flavor. By grounding baking in science, the book aims to demystify the process and encourage experimentation.
- •
Unlock Creativity with Buildable Recipes
"Buildable Recipes" as a Foundation: A core concept in "Sift" is the idea of "buildable recipes." Lamb presents base recipes that can be adapted and modified to create a wide array of baked goods. This method encourages bakers to develop a strong understanding of fundamental techniques and flavor profiles, enabling them to confidently experiment and personalize their creations. By mastering the basics, readers can unlock their creativity and tailor recipes to their preferences. This approach fosters independence and adaptability in the kitchen, rather than simply following instructions blindly.
- •
Deconstructing Baking into Essential Elements
Mastering Key Baking Elements: The book breaks down baking into its essential elements, such as gluten development, sugar crystallization, and fat emulsification. Each element is explored in detail, explaining its role in creating the desired texture and structure in baked goods. By understanding these elements, bakers can fine-tune their techniques and achieve consistent results. Lamb provides practical tips and troubleshooting advice for each element, enabling readers to overcome common baking challenges and improve their overall skills. This focus on fundamental elements provides a strong foundation for successful baking.
- •
Turning Baking Mistakes into Lessons
Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity: "Sift" promotes a positive attitude towards mistakes in the kitchen. Lamb encourages readers to view failures as valuable learning experiences, rather than setbacks. The book provides guidance on how to analyze what went wrong and adjust techniques accordingly. By embracing a growth mindset, bakers can overcome their fear of failure and develop resilience in the kitchen. This approach fosters a more enjoyable and educational baking experience, encouraging experimentation and continuous improvement.
- •
Elevating Baking with Quality Ingredients
Emphasis on High-Quality Ingredients: Lamb underscores the importance of using good-quality ingredients to achieve optimal results in baking. She explains how the quality of ingredients such as flour, butter, and chocolate can significantly impact the flavor and texture of baked goods. The book provides guidance on selecting the best ingredients and understanding their properties. By prioritizing quality, bakers can elevate their creations and experience the true potential of their recipes. This focus on ingredients empowers readers to make informed choices and appreciate the nuances of flavor.
- •
Balancing Precision and Intuition in Baking
Blending Technique with Intuition: "Sift" balances precise instruction with encouragement for bakers to develop their intuition and personal style. While providing detailed explanations of techniques, Lamb also emphasizes the importance of sensory awareness and adjusting recipes based on observation and experience. The book encourages readers to trust their instincts and experiment with flavors and textures to create unique and personalized baked goods. This approach fosters a deeper connection with the baking process and empowers bakers to express their creativity.
Chapter Recap
About The Author
Nicola Lamb
Main Quotes
"Baking isn't magic. While ingredients transform wonderfully, baking is governed by science and interconnected reactions."
Who Should Read This Book
Home bakers of all skill levels
Baking enthusiasts interested in the science behind baking
Readers who appreciate detailed explanations and techniques
Those looking for a comprehensive baking resource or "baking bible"
Individuals who enjoy trying new and interesting recipes
Fans of pastry chef Nicola Lamb
Readers who want to improve their baking skills and understanding
Bakers who are interested in the foundational elements of baking: flour, sugar, eggs, and fat
Book Summaries Like
Sift
FAQ
Free Access to LitNotes