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Ratio summary
Brief summary
Ratio by Michael Ruhlman is a guide to mastering the fundamental ratios of cooking. By understanding the simple proportions behind recipes, you can gain the confidence to improvise and create your own dishes.
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Ratio
Summary of key ideas
Understanding the Foundation of Cooking
In Ratio by Michael Ruhlman, we are introduced to the concept of ratios in cooking. Ruhlman argues that understanding the fundamental ratios of ingredients in cooking is more important than following specific recipes. By knowing the basic ratios, one can create an endless variety of dishes, from bread to custards to sauces, with a few simple adjustments.
The book begins with an exploration of the fundamental ratios of dough, which is 5 parts flour to 3 parts water. This ratio, Ruhlman explains, is the foundation of not only bread but also pasta, crackers, and pie crusts. He then delves into the ratios of fat to flour in pastry, and the ratios of egg yolks to cream in custard, emphasizing their importance in creating the desired texture and taste.
Applying Ratios to Cooking
Ruhlman moves on to discuss the ratios in sauces, highlighting the crucial role of emulsification in creating stable sauces. He explains that mayonnaise, for example, is made of the ratio of 1 egg yolk to 1 cup of oil, and that understanding this ratio allows for the creation of countless variations such as aioli and hollandaise sauce.
As the book progresses, Ruhlman discusses the ratios in batters, such as those used in pancakes and crepes, and the ratios in brines and marinades. He emphasizes that understanding these ratios gives cooks the freedom to experiment and create their own unique dishes, rather than relying on specific recipes.
Exploring the World of Ratios
In the latter part of Ratio, Ruhlman delves into the world of savory cooking. He explains the importance of the ratio of water to rice in cooking perfect rice, and the ratio of water to beans in cooking flavorful beans. He also discusses the ratios in sausage making, highlighting the importance of the proportion of fat to meat in creating succulent sausages.
Throughout the book, Ruhlman emphasizes that understanding ratios in cooking is not only liberating but also essential. He argues that once one understands the basic ratios, they can cook without fear, and are equipped to troubleshoot and adapt recipes to their liking. He also encourages cooks to experiment and create their own ratios, leading to the development of new dishes.
Embracing the Art and Science of Cooking
In conclusion, Ratio by Michael Ruhlman is an exploration of the art and science of cooking. By understanding the fundamental ratios of ingredients, cooks can gain confidence in the kitchen and create a wide variety of dishes. Ruhlman's book is a celebration of the simple yet profound principles that underlie the culinary arts, and a call to embrace the freedom and creativity that comes with understanding ratios in cooking.
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What is Ratio about?
Ratio explores the fundamental principles of cooking and baking, focusing on the importance of ratios and proportions in creating delicious dishes. Author Michael Ruhlman delves into the science behind cooking, providing readers with the knowledge and confidence to experiment with their own recipes and techniques. This insightful book is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their culinary skills.
Ratio Review
Ratio (2009) explores the fundamental principles behind cooking by ratios rather than recipes, offering a fresh perspective on culinary creativity. Here's why this book stands out:
- By emphasizing ratios over measurements, it empowers readers to experiment and create dishes with confidence and freedom.
- This book showcases the simplicity and versatility of cooking by ratios, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced chefs alike.
- With its engaging approach to understanding the science of cooking, the book transforms what could be a tedious subject into an exciting culinary journey.
Who should read Ratio?
Home cooks looking to understand the fundamental principles of cooking
People who want to become more creative and confident in the kitchen
Those who are interested in the science behind cooking and baking
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Ratio FAQs
What is the main message of Ratio?
The main message of Ratio emphasizes the importance of understanding basic cooking ratios for culinary creativity.
How long does it take to read Ratio?
Reading Ratio takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in minutes.
Is Ratio a good book? Is it worth reading?
Ratio is a must-read for aspiring chefs. It simplifies cooking through fundamental ratios, unleashing culinary imagination.
Who is the author of Ratio?
The author of Ratio is Michael Ruhlman.
What to read after Ratio?
If you're wondering what to read next after Ratio, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright