Necessities and Temptations was first published by the Junior League of Austin, TX in 1987 and has sold over 115,000 copies in that 23-year period of time. It has also received Hall of Fame honors from the Tabasco Community Cookbook Awards. This book is not only a cookbook, but a handy kitchen reference guide, as well.
The kitchen reference guide is what I think makes the book so unique and is a great testament to a group of entrepreneurial women creating a product that filled a need. A book like this didn’t happen without some thorough research regarding what was on the market and how they could capitalize on what was missing. The community of Austin has been the benefactor of the proceeds of this title through money the Junior League of Austin has put back into the community in support of various programs it supports. A conservative estimate would be that this book has raised close to or maybe even more than $1,000,000—WOW!
This book has 600 pages of recipes appealing to every level of cook, plus a 45-page section of “Basics” including tips on measuring, serving, substituting, storing and freezing, herbs and spices, and a glossary of cooking terms. If you like Tex-Mex, this book is a must have with 33 such recipes. It also contains an entertaining guide, napkin folding section, table setting guide, wine selection guide and many other features basic to us all. The League tells us that “Like the state of Texas, this cookbook is big and beautiful”.
Mary Anne Potter, a member of the Junior League of Austin and good friend of mine had this to say about Necessities and Temptations:
Giving back to the community never tasted so "I do" good! “Austinites” agree that “Necessities and Temptations” is a must-have for every bride-to-be. A fact witnessed locally by the number of go-to shops around town restocking this prized Junior League cookbook. As a reliable reference guide, complete with a timely section on herbs and spices for today's organic cook and a chart for determining serving quantities to dish up a real crowd pleaser, it truly makes cooking effortless. Featuring a vast array of simple to make items from everyday souffles and old fashioned comfort foods to champagne punch and chocolate truffles, Necessities and Temptations definitely lives up to it's title. There's even a delightful section on building a gingerbread house for the little ones, and menu plans to take you through Austin's seasonal highlights on the bluebonnet trails, at the lake or 'round the Christmas tree. Both timely and timeless, this cookbook readily outfits any new bride to prepare basic, fanciful and fun treats all year round for years to come.
Necessities and Temptations is a testimony to self-publishing because only a handful of trade published cookbooks would have remained in continuous print for almost 25 years. Congratulations, Junior League of Austin, for providing another example of supporting your community through your efforts of publishing a masterpiece reflecting your culture and character.
