In the crowded world of celebrity chef cookbooks, Matty Matheson’s Home Style Cookery stands out as a refreshing take on comfort food with a serious nod to classic techniques. Known for his larger-than-life personality, tattoos, and rowdy humor, Matheson brings his unique flair to a book that is surprisingly practical and approachable for home cooks, whether you are an experienced chef or a novice in the kitchen.
Matty Matheson is a Canadian chef, restaurateur, actor and internet personality. He portrays Neil Fak in the award-winning comedy drama series The Bear. Like most Canadians, I love that our chefs are recognized in many different ways around the globe. Matty hooked me on this show, and I can’t wait for the next season to begin! We highlighted his first cookbook at https://canadiancookbooks.ca/matty-matheson-a-cookbook/ and will be looking forward to his new release Soups, Salads and Sandwiches this month.
The first thing that strikes you about Home Style Cookery is how it doesn’t fall into the trap of being overly complicated. Instead of focusing on fancy, restaurant-style dishes, Matheson takes readers on a journey through the kind of food that brings people together around the dinner table. Think hearty, nostalgic dishes like casseroles, roasts, and pasta, all with a twist that makes them uniquely Matty.
What sets this cookbook apart is Matheson’s emphasis on the basics. He provides detailed instructions on how to make your own bread, develop both meat and vegetable stocks, and grill the perfect steak. For anyone who’s ever been intimidated by these kitchen fundamentals, Matheson’s voice is reassuring and encouraging. His writing style is casual, almost like having a friend explain things to you in your own kitchen.
While the focus is on home-style cooking, the variety in this book is impressive. Recipes range from hearty breakfasts to light salads, cozy dinners, and indulgent desserts. Some standout dishes include his Beef Cheek Risotto, Double Rib Chili, and Crème Caramel, all of which are made accessible with step-by-step instructions and vibrant photos. The photography, in fact, is one of the high points of the book, with mouth-watering images that make you want to dive right into the kitchen and start cooking.
One of the strengths of Home Style Cookery is its adaptability. Matheson encourages readers to tweak recipes to their liking, swap out ingredients based on what’s available, and not be afraid to experiment. This flexibility is a breath of fresh air in a world of rigid, prescriptive cooking styles, making the book feel much more like a resource than a rulebook. Take his Turkey Neck Stew in our Recipe section. The perfect way to utilize the lesser used parts of the bird (you can ask for the necks at the meat counter of your store). I added the liver and heart that comes with every bird to infuse more turkey flavor. Add your own twist by including any vegetables you may have on hand and change up the seasoning.
Beyond the recipes, it’s Matheson’s personality that shines through. His infectious enthusiasm for cooking is felt in every page. You get a sense of his love for sharing meals with friends and family, which is really the heart of this book. Matty takes us out to his farm to share his love of land and all it produces. Whether he’s explaining the importance of using high-quality ingredients or sharing stories of his family dinners, there’s a warmth and authenticity that resonates with the reader.
If there’s a critique to be made, it’s that some of the recipes, while comforting, might feel too indulgent for those looking for healthier options. The heavy use of butter, cream, and rich ingredients might not appeal to everyone, especially if you’re trying to maintain a lighter diet. However, for those looking for delicious comfort food, this book delivers in spades (and you can substitute healthier versions of various ingredients).
Matty Matheson: Home Style Cookery is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s an invitation into Matheson’s world of good food and good company. The blend of practical tips, delicious meals, and Matheson’s distinct voice makes this book a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their home cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting, you’ll find inspiration and confidence in the kitchen with this cookbook. Get a copy of the book at https://mattymathesonhomestylecookery.abrams.link/ or win this delightful cookbook in our Giveaway section. For fans of home-style, feel-good food, this is a book that will find a permanent place in your kitchen — and your heart.
Reprinted with permission from Matty Matheson: Home Style Cookery by Matty Matheson. Abrams, 2020. Photo credit: Quentin Bacon https://www.abramsbooks.com/product/matty-matheson-home-style-cookery_9781419747489/
