3 1/2 weeks into making the first RecipeTin cookbook – take a peek behind the scenes!
Like a GIANT jigsaw puzzle…..!!! 🤯
My publisher put it best when they said that we’re at that stage right now when it feels like we’ve tipped out the contents of a (giant) jigsaw puzzle! That’s exactly how I feel – I can see a gazillion pieces that I know will fit together at the end, but it’s hard to decide where to start.
To be honest, after pottering around for a few days like a lost soul, trying to figure out the best way to tackle this project, I just decided to dive into what I love doing the most – cooking. 🤷🏻♀️ If it’s delicious, there will be a home for it!, is my current thinking. I know I know, the book structure and chapters are important, my publisher keeps reminding me.
But right now, I want to get into the cookbook headspace by getting excited about creating new recipes!
Is it Cookbook Worthy??
Is it Cookbook Worthy? That’s a new official term around these parts that gets thrown around a LOT these days! We even have a rating system:
Room to improve
OK
Good 👌🏻
GREAT! ✅✅ <<– Goes without saying, these are the only ones that make it in!
But then there’s also:
FAIL ❌ 👎🏻
More of those happening than I care to admit….
In case you are wondering, that’s a Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta. A candidate for the Emergency Meals chapter. Looked so promising, but it just lacked flavour……
More “fails” – Strawberry Custard Tarts. Well, not fails. They were fine and perfectly edible. But they weren’t good enough! Custard not set enough in the large one, and the ratio of crust to custard was out in the small ones.
But so adorable!
Strawberry Tart – not good enough! 
Mini Strawberry Tarts – also not good enough!
Though according to Dozer, I haven’t had a fail yet…. My greatest kitchen cheerleader. Always gives me full marks for my efforts! (Except when it involves raw kale or cucumber).
Post-it notes and spreadsheets 🤯
The other aspect of cookbook making – organisation and brainstorming. So many post-it notes… so many giant spreadsheets! 🤯 I literally have pads of post-it notes all over the house, in my handbag, in the car, even on my bedside table. Whenever a fleeting thought of inspiration crosses my mind, I jot it down then add it to the Wall Of Ideas.
It’s gonna be BIG!
The other thing that became apparent immediately after I put out the call out asking for your input on the cookbook – it’s gonna be much bigger than originally planned! The initial thinking was 120 recipes, the vast majority of which would be new ones.
But then so many of you cried out for existing website favourites as “must include”, it made me realise that I should, I need to include these favourites as well. However, there was no way I was going to rob you of the new recipes I was planning to create.
So instead, I just increased the number of recipes in the cookbook up to a whopping 160 recipes. 😇PLUS all the extras, the life essentials like rice, stock, sides etc.
This is going to be one big cookbook!
OK, signing off for today. I have recipes to create!! Dishes to wash! Back Friday with a brand new recipe…. it’s a big one…… – Nagi x
PS Just a mock cover!!! Absolutely no thoughts yet on the real cover design. And you know full well I’m going to get your input!!
Life of Dozer
When you see his back half, you can pretty much guarantee the front half is up to no good… let’s see, shall we…?
Yep. I knew it.
Hi Nagi. I have a recipe that everyone loves and no idea where it originated from. Thought you might like to try it and add your magic!
Tuna Dip – Mix together 1/2 red onion (cut finely), Sirena Tuna (drain oil), Good quality mayonnaise, Coriander (jar, tube or fresh).
So simple but delish!
Love this site, the recipes are great but I just adore DOZER. I always share his photos with my husband. Can’t wait to buy your cookbook. It sounds like it will be amazing. I’m looking forward to trying out some of your amazing recipes. 🌷
I just love your recipes but I mostly love seeing Dozer’s antics!!
You both are pure joy!
Good luck with the cookbook, it will be a hit for sure!!
Have been hoping for this for a long time good luck with it a sell out for sure
Can’t wait to get your new cook book
Forgive the typo… meant to say keep up the great work with all you do! It’s been along day, and I know you can relate! 🙂
I absolutely love your recipes, your enthusiasm and I know I’m going to love your cookbook! Keep up the great with with all you do! You’re a GREAT inspiration! XO
Nagi, I love your recipes, especially the videos!
You know Dozer has to be on the front cover, right?
Oh my gosh! So True!!!
Exciting times ahead Nagi. Your recipes are amazing and I cook them for my most of my family meals. Your cookbook will be EPIC!! Definitely looking forward to it.
Best of luck in your book. I KNOW it will be a success !!!! I would love to see Dozer on the cover!!!!! Just no kale or cukes by him LOL Love Georgette USA
I would love to buy your new cook book just say where and when please
Nagi
I love your blog and make many of your recipes. You are so engaging in your posts. I hope the cookbook maintains your voice!
Some suggestions – I love when you list substitutions. It really helps !!
As long I really find it helpful when you give the American name for products !!
And lastly – I really want your cookbook to succeed. I was thinking maybe post links to any recipes with available videos. It doesn’t have to be all. But It will make your book unique!!
Wishing you the best of luck and continued success in all your endeavors
I love the cover already! Living your best life right now – can’t wait to see the book! Well done you.
Wow, such immense effort 👏👏👏
The book’s definitely going to be great Nagi 🤗
Congratulations on your COOKBOOK!
I’ve loved your blog for years. Soon thousands more people will meet you and Dozer and enjoy your delightful recipes. BTW, I love the title.
I know you will do it
Best of luck
Best recipes on line
Guaranteed clear instructions, flavour
Hi Nagi,
I’m from the U.K. love your recipes. cant wait to buy your fabulous book… will i be able to get it on Amazon
I am so excited about this cook book. Putting in my pre pre-order. Thanks Nagi, not just for all your wonderful recipes, but for testing and perfecting them.
Love hearing about your cookbook and so excited to hear about new recipes. Love seeing photo of Dozer and what he is up to, always brings a smile to my face