Little Leons - Henry Dimbleby, Kay Plunkett-Hogge, Claire Ptak & John Vincent
Conran - 2013
Photography: Georgia Glynn Smith
The Little Leons are a collection of four books: Brownies, Bars & Muffins; Soups, Salads & Snacks; Smoothies, Juices & Cocktails; and Breakfast and Brunch. They are lovely to read through and just the right size to browse for what you are looking to cook. The downside to having them all separate is that some recipes that you expect to be in Breakfast are in Brownies, there are quite a few drinks in the breakfast book and some of the muffins might work better in snacks. It can be quite hard to navigate around them.
As with all Leon recipes they are packed full of healthy flavours most of the ingredients are things that aren't too hard to get hold of but quite a lot of them are still expensive. The photography is appetising with quirky and fun styling throughout. The recipes themselves are easy to follow and really user-friendly.
There is a good range of recipes, spread across the four books that mean most occasions can be catered for. There are some real gems but the recipes are not hugely inspirational and some are very basic. The Breakfast and Brunch was my favourite out of the collection with some lovely ideas, nice bread recipes and interesting twists on classics. Lots of the recipes have tips about how to adapt the dish or some preparation ideas as well as reasons behind the recipes - these are great to read and give an insight into the food and processes.
All four books are entertaining but they feel a little thin and the organisation is confusing. When put together there is a nice collection of recipes with lots of wonderful notes and hints and lovely photography.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of 'Little Leons' from Octopus Publishing