It doesn't take culinary mastery and great recipes to be a great cook. But then again, it does take more than boiling eggs to lure you out of ordering take-out every night. Whether you want to pick up a new hobby, win your friends and family over [move 'over' after 'win'?] with your meals, or eat healthier, heartier meals, you'll need to know a few things about cooking. "Basic Cooking For Dummies, Third Edition" digs you out of microwave dinners and tipping delivery persons and propels you with all the ingredients you need toward becoming a superior home cook. This hands-on guide shows you the fun and easy way to prepare meals all your guests will love, from die-hard vegetarians to the most passionate meat eaters.You'll be able to handle boiling, poaching, steaming, braising, grilling, and other essential techniques, making it easy to master: stirring up sensational soups; perfecting the art of the egg; dressing up salads to impress; creating wonderful pasta dishes; one-stop one-pot meals; satisfying your sweet tooth with desserts; cooking for your boss; making the most of leftovers; and, meals for the most special occasions. Packed with over 150 tempting, hassle-free recipes that will satisfy every palette, as well as advice on supplying, organizing, and budgeting your kitchen, you'll have all the know-how to become a culinary expert and possess the elusive key to anyone's stomach!