I’m a columnist based in Brisbane trying to be brutally honest when sharing my parenting highs and lows to help all mums and dads feel less alone.

The I Hate to Cook Book

The I Hate to Cook Book

So in case it wasn't clear from my past posts, I'm beginning to love old cookbooks. I don't know why I didn't discover this passion sooner because it only makes sense, especially now I'm writing a cookbook highlighting the secret cooking tips and tricks of my grandmas - and their grandmas (plus a little life advice on the side).

In my recent bookstore browse I was intrigued to come across The I Hate to Cook book. And immediately thought, how brave of American author Peg Bracken to admit this so publicly, just a decade after the height of housewifery. Her confidence is reflected in the writing; it's full of humour and wit and brilliant shortcut recipes - (she even has her own large list of household and kitchen hints).

This Fake Hollandaise sauce intrigued me, I'm yet to try it. What even is evaporated milk? Canned? Powdered?

And adding rice to these lamb shanks was another revelation: one less pot to clean.

There's another recipe called Skid Road Stroganoff and a "magical" Dry Rice - (I'm going to try this one and report back).

Who are your favourite old time cookbook authors?

Weekend Walkabout

Weekend Walkabout

City Guide: A Day in Melbourne

City Guide: A Day in Melbourne