Around the world with my good mate Jamie

Jamie does ...
by Jamie Oliver
Penguin, $75
I have been travelling the world with Jamie Oliver. I have been cooking alongside him and enjoying the foods of Spain, Italy, Morocco and more.
Okay, I have been very very close to doing those things. I have watched him on TV, his latest cookbook in my hands, and have followed his instructions diligently to produce some surprisingly easy yet delicious meals.
I presented a friend with this book at Christmas, another visitor spied it, consumed it, and went straight out and bought it the next day. You only have to flick through the first few pages to know this is our sort of book.
Yes, Jamie is back on his travels again.
This time he visits six amazing places that are popular destinations for Kiwis travelling to Britain and beyond.
The book showcases beautiful and delicious recipes from six Spain, Italy, Sweden, Morocco, Greece and France.
It follows Jamie on his journey for inspiration and, as always, he ventures off the main tourist track to explore markets, meet local people and get to the heart of each place through its food.
Each chapter focuses on a different place and Jamie shows off his version of the countries' star dishes: the flamboyant paella of Spain, exotic Moroccan tagines, zingy Greek salad, lovely Swedish meatballs and delicious French desserts.
The book is full of Jamie's travel photos as well as mouthwatering pictures of his food.
Early in the book you'll come across The Best Chorizo and Tomato Salad in the world.
Don't be put off by what looks like a long list of ingredients - it isn't. And you'll find you have 90 per cent if not all the ingredients in your cupboard or fridge. This recipe is a burst of flavour, and one of my favourites. What am I saying ... I could list any of 30 recipes - even more - and say this is one of my favourites.
Whatever you do make sure you try: Tinto de Verano Sorbet, from Spain; Crispy Cured Meat and Cherry Salad, from Italy; Swedish Meatballs, yep from Sweden - and don't forget the mash and the warm cranberry sauce; Ratatouille-Style Briouats, from Morocco - these were meant to be fried but I baked them and they were delicious; Sticky and Gorgeous Pork Stew, from Greece; and The World-Famous Tarte Tatin, from France. The instructions are easy to follow, the ingredients are easy to source. You have no excuse so, go on, invite some guests around.
And from Jamie: "If I've learned anything over the years it's to rely on my instincts. After hopping on a £70 return flight to Morocco and spending a few short but brilliant days tasting my way through the markets and alleyways of Marrakech, I knew I should take more of these trips. All those new flavours, sights, sounds and smells were like a breath of fresh air to me, and I came home excited and full of new recipes. What you'll find in this book is fun, optimistic, escapist food that you can easily cook at home."