Food historian
This book is just an absolute classic, selling millions of copies worldwide. First published in 1982, 1989 and again in 1992. It is the big 1989 hardback featuring Delia with her red jumper on, that I use. These recipes remind me of my Mum, I remember the first time she made the Beef with Pickled Walnuts and the Smoked Salmon Quiche, a special treat for a family gathering. Cooking from this book is pure nostalgia and you just know that Delia won't let you down.
Food writer and stylist
The only other cookbook I left home with as an 18 year old with bags of enthusiasm but much to learn about cooking. I think its fair to say if you are learning to cook you don’t really need to look any further than this book, it has all the basics well covered. And the best thing about it is - because this is Delia, queen of the domestic kitchen - the recipes are absolutely failsafe. You follow them, they work, you learn to cook. Simple.
Recipe writer, presenter and blogger
This was bought for me by a boyfriend for my 18th birthday. I have no idea what he's doing these days but my copy of Delia's Complete Cookery Course is still going strong. I often consult her when developing recipes to see what the 'correct' method is, before I meander off on my own merry way.
Food writer
I didn't really read Delia's books until after I'd taught myself to cook, but the belated discovery, which came when my Dad brought my Mum's old cookery books down to London, was like a portal to my Mum's cooking and to my childhood.
Writer and broadcaster
The very first book I, and many cooks of my generation, cooked from. I learned all the basics of naming and roasting from Delia and while I no longer use it, it has had a lasting impact on my life.
Blogger of Kavey Eats
The book that helped a generation (or two) of home cooks learn the classics, myself and my husband included. We rarely refer to it these days but it earned its place on the shelf many years ago.
Former food scientist, writer and broadcaster
Delia doesn't say WHY, but her exposition of the HOW of cooking can hardly be bettered, and neither can her collection of basic recipes.
Group Editor, The World's 50 Best Restaurants
Not the most fashionable choice, but Delia was queen of British cookbooks for decades. This is pretty timeless, albeit in a homely way.
Author, historian and chef
All the basics in one foolproof place. Even though some recipes seem dated, it's still very relevant and still teaching me
Chef and food enthusiast
My generation learned so much from Delia. Never to be under-estimated! We need her equivalent now.
Food presenter, writer and eater
I won this book as a cookery prize at school...Delia has always been a bit of a heroine to me
Writer and broadcaster
I love Delia. Her recipes have never let me down
Executive Editor, Saturday Kitchen
It taught the nation to cook including me.
Chef
My first cookbook ever
Food writer
The Bible.
Journalist
Director, Sauce Management
Artist
Food writer
Food writer and marmalade producer
Chief Executive, Doves Farm Foods
Founder and Owner of Moshi Moshi
Founder and editor of The Gannet
Critic and Author
Director at Seasoned Pioneers
Food writer and food stylist
Food and travel writer
Food historian
Chef
Author and restaurateur
Celebrity Maitre d'
Food writer