If you’re a fan of musicals and love spending time in the kitchen, this cookbook is a match made in culinary and cinematic heaven. A Few of My Favorite Things: Recipes Inspired by Family-Friendly Musicals by Veeda Bybee bridges the magic of timeless musicals with the art of cooking, offering over 40 recipes inspired by iconic silver-screen hits. Whether it’s for a family movie night or a themed dinner party, these family-friendly cookbook recipes bring the enchantment of the screen to your dining table.
Jump to:
I received this book for free from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. While I haven’t cooked from this book, I evaluated its usability, recipe structure, and overall appeal.
Author
Veeda Bybee, a self-proclaimed musical enthusiast and passionate cook, crafted this book during the pandemic when family musical marathons became a source of comfort and joy. Bybee’s love for musicals shines through in her recipes, which capture the whimsy and nostalgia of beloved films. She also includes a heartfelt hope that more Asian-inspired musicals will join the classics one day, subtly integrating her culinary background into the recipes.
Audience
This book is for movie buffs, musical aficionados, and home cooks looking to infuse their meals with a touch of Hollywood glamour. Families seeking creative ways to bond during movie nights will adore how the recipes tie into beloved films. Both seasoned cooks and beginners will find something magical to recreate.
Mission
Bybee’s mission is to make the experience of watching musicals more interactive and immersive, turning melodies into mouthwatering meals. With recipes inspired by classics like The Sound of Music, Mulan, and Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, her cookbook celebrates the universal joy of storytelling through song and food.
Standout and Unique Features
- Recipes tied to specific songs or scenes from over 40 musicals.
- Inclusion of family-friendly musical films, including animated Disney musicals.
- A charming introduction that connects the author’s family story with her culinary journey.
- A diverse array of recipes, such as “Von Trapp Schnitzel with Noodles” and “Lazy Morning Congee.”
What I liked
The concept of pairing recipes with musicals is truly delightful and makes every meal feel like an event. Whether it’s for a family movie night or a themed dinner party, these recipes add a layer of creativity and fun to the experience. Veeda Bybee’s personal anecdotes about her family’s love of musicals make the cookbook even more special, giving it a heartfelt and relatable touch. The range of recipes caters to different tastes, from savory dishes like “Von Trapp Schnitzel with Noodles” to sweet treats like “Pickpocket Cardamom Bread Pudding.” The inclusion of Asian recipes adds a layer of diversity and depth to the collection. Overall, the cookbook feels joyful and inspiring, making it a perfect companion for anyone who loves musicals and cooking.
What I Wish It Had
While the cookbook is creative and engaging, some of the tools required, such as specialty baking sheets, may be challenging for home cooks who don’t already have a fully stocked kitchen. Additionally, Bybee’s broad definition of musicals to include Disney movies with music might feel like a bit of a stretch to musical purists. However, these are small drawbacks in an otherwise charming and enjoyable book.
FAQ
A mix of savory and sweet dishes inspired by musicals, with nods to diverse cuisines.
Yes, many recipes are straightforward enough for weeknight meals, though some are more elaborate.
A balanced mix—beginners will find approachable options, while advanced cooks can enjoy challenging recipes.
Vibrant, full-color photos accompany most recipes, adding a cinematic flair.
Some recipes call for baking sheets that may not be standard in all kitchens.
Almost all ingredients are easily accessible.
Prep and cook times vary, with most recipes falling between 30–90 minutes.
No nutritional details are provided.
Absolutely—both kids and adults will find plenty to love.
No, this is a standalone cookbook.
Yes, the narrative elements and musical trivia make it engaging to browse.
This is a great gift and a keeper for musical fans.
Standout Recipes
- Henry Higgins’s Proper Full English Breakfast
- Lazy Morning Congee
- Pickpocket Cardamom Bread Pudding
- Corny’s Crab Cakes with Tartar Sauce
- Anatevka Potato Latkes
Best Recipes for Different Occasions
For this section, I’d make whatever goes with the musical you’re watching!
- Movie Night: Von Trapp Schnitzel with Noodles
- Family Dinner: Polar Turkey Burgers
- Dessert Party: One More Slice Chocolate Cake
Final Verdict: A Permanent Addition?
A Few of My Favorite Things by Veeda Bybee is an imaginative cookbook that transforms cooking into a performance, celebrating musicals through dishes that bring joy to both the kitchen and the table. Its playful concept, engaging recipes, and heartfelt storytelling make it a must-have for fans of food and film alike.
If You Are Interested In This Book, You Might Also Like:
If A Few of My Favorite Things sparks your interest, there are other cookbooks you may enjoy. The Movie Night Cookbook offers a variety of recipes perfect for pairing with any film. Disney Eats: More Than 150 Recipes for Everyday Magic takes inspiration from Disney’s magical universe to create fun and family-friendly dishes. For those who love cinema in general, Eat What You Watch: A Cookbook for Movie Lovers explores iconic dishes from beloved movies. Together, these books provide an array of culinary adventures that combine entertainment with delicious food.
-
Sesame Street Cookbook: Let’s Cook Together Review
-
A Taste of the World: Celebrating Global Flavors
-
Squishmallows: The Official Baking Book
Get a copy today
Leave a Reply