Beaten, Seared, and Sauced

Beaten, Seared, and Sauced: On Becoming a Chef at the Culinary Institute of America –by Jonathan Dixon

Memoir

266 pages

Footnotes/Endnotes: None

Illustrations: None

Suitable for eReaders: Yes

Rainy Day knew she would love this book after reading the first three words in the Acknowledgments. "Thank you to..." Rainy Day found a writer who understands. He did not think it necessary to want to thank them, he found it necessary to thank them.

Therefore, Jonathan Dixon, Rainy Day thanks you for a most engrossing book.

Have you ever considered, in your wildest dreams, of becoming a Chef? Oh, Rainy Day has. Every year or two she dreams it for oh, maybe 3, possibly 4, nanoseconds. And then she remembers – Chefing is darned hard work, and Rainy Day isn't as young as she used to be, and, besides, she likes cooking small, intimate meals for one, possibly two.

But, if you are one who has wondered, this book is a must read. If you are one who is sure positive you can win an Iron Chef America, or Throwdown with Bobby Flay, read this book before applying. Rainy Day thought 8 weeks of (WAC) Army Basic back in the 1960's was pure, unadulterated hell. She can't imagine what Mr. Dixon and his classmates voluntarily put themselves through – two years of it. I think a lot of the Chefs mentioned in this book, could easily put on a military uniform and transition to being a Drill Instructor!

Jonathan Dixon was a writer before he entered the CIA at age 38. He was able to put his writing skills to excellent use in this memoir about his two years learning how to be a Chef. His writing style is approachable and easily read. He took Rainy Day on a delightful trip through some of the most gorgeous country in the US, and into some of the best kitchens. He made Rainy Day laugh, and he made her cry. And he taught her a few things along the way.

Many thanks, Jonathan Dixon, for a most delightful book!