French Lessons is a comprehensive and colourful guide to mastering French cooking from New Zealand's popular and innovative chefs. Drawing on his training and experience in the kitchens of French restaurants in Europe and Australia, Justin North has compiled this beautifully designed, all-encompassing volume that demystifies French cooking, explaining each technique in clear language as Justin guides home cooks through each recipe. A guide to the basics, listing essential ingredients and equipment, this book guides readers to the heart of the book: 23 individual lessons, each based on a particular course or technique.

Chapters include basic Stocks and Soups, Sauces and Pastries, Steaming, Poaching, Braising, Grilling and Frying. Sweeter courses are Sorbets, Ice Creams, Fruit and Chocolate. French Lessons contains more than 300 recipes.

They are simple and straight forward, and each comes with Justin's recommendations for accompaniments. Recipes are illustrated in full colour throughout, and are teamed with step-by-step technique photos to ensure clarity and understanding. This is a must-have for every kitchen bench top and will become a well-worn companion to anyone interested in French cookery and expanding their repertoire.