My mentor, Chef Graham Kerr, inspired me to cook. Seventeen years later, he has taken the time to write a personal note in a recipe of his that I used in this book. Thank You!

I like to eat, but I like to eat good food even more. So why not create a book that is fun to read, but will also teach some of the things I have learned that help make good tasty meals.

This book will give you an idea of the type of cookware you need, explanations of what some of these things are, and how to use them.

There is a chapter on the basic things you need to have around all the time that will help add variety to the flavors you create. Your "Pantry" as I call it. You don't have to go out and buy a lot of exotic items. I like to keep it simple and inexpensive.

Next I decided to have a chapter on techniques. How to use the tools that you have to give you the biggest bang for your buck! I watched many people cook through the years and saw the mistakes they were making. Most people just did it that way because no one ever showed them a better way.

Then there are the recipes. Whenever possible, I have written a story about how the recipe came about. You won't use them all, but I bet you'll use more from this book than from any other.

Good cooking, easy, and "Just Plain Yummy".