The British Cook Book by Ben Mervis is an essential for anyone who loves proper, simple, classic British cookery—especially if, like me, you crave food with soul. This isn’t about poncy dishes; it’s about flavour and heart, without worrying too much about presentation. 

The book is a gem with 550 recipes to try on your loved ones. Of course, it covers the classics, but there are also some more unexpected options. It’s a particularly strong pudding book, with everything from Eton Mess and Summer Pudding to Sticky Toffee and more. There’s even a fantastic Ecclefechan tart recipe and one for Sussex Pond Pudding, a suet sponge with a whole lemon in the middle.

On the savoury side, it’s a joy to see dishes like roast grouse, proper pies, langoustines and mussel brose, herring in oatmeal—foods I love and smile at when they appear on a menu.

This is quickly becoming one of my favourites. It covers a huge amount with plenty of sections, including a good basics section. If you’ve never made a hot cross bun or shepherd's pie, you need this book. It will help you take a delicious stroll through our beautiful land and seashores, offering historical dishes too, with details about where the recipes come from and who created them. A truly great book.