Cook’s Illustrated magazine has been a trusted source for home cooks and professional chefs alike for over three decades. With its unique approach to recipe testing and kitchen equipment reviews, the magazine has built a loyal following. But have you ever wondered who is behind the publication of this beloved magazine? In this article, we will delve into the history of Cook’s Illustrated and explore who publishes this iconic magazine.
A Brief History of Cook’s Illustrated
Cook’s Illustrated was first published in 1993 by Christopher Kimball, a well-known American cookbook author and television personality. Kimball’s vision for the magazine was to create a publication that would provide home cooks with reliable, thoroughly tested recipes and unbiased kitchen equipment reviews. The magazine quickly gained popularity, and its circulation grew steadily over the years.
The Early Years: Christopher Kimball and the Founding of Cook’s Illustrated
Christopher Kimball, a graduate of Columbia University, began his career in the food industry in the 1970s. He worked as a chef and cookbook author, publishing several successful cookbooks, including “The Cook’s Bible” and “The Yellow Farmhouse Cookbook.” In the early 1990s, Kimball decided to launch a magazine that would reflect his passion for cooking and his commitment to providing accurate, reliable recipes.
Kimball’s vision for Cook’s Illustrated was to create a magazine that would be different from other cooking publications. He wanted to focus on the science of cooking, using a rigorous testing process to develop recipes that would work for home cooks. He also wanted to provide unbiased reviews of kitchen equipment, helping readers make informed purchasing decisions.
The Testing Process: What Sets Cook’s Illustrated Apart
One of the key factors that sets Cook’s Illustrated apart from other cooking magazines is its rigorous testing process. The magazine’s test kitchen, located in Brookline, Massachusetts, is staffed by a team of experienced cooks and food scientists. The team tests each recipe multiple times, making adjustments and tweaks until the recipe is perfected.
The testing process is meticulous, with each recipe being tested at least 20 times before it is published. The team also conducts extensive research on the science of cooking, using techniques such as sous vide and molecular gastronomy to develop innovative recipes.
Who Publishes Cook’s Illustrated Magazine?
In 2016, Christopher Kimball left Cook’s Illustrated and launched a new magazine, Milk Street. The departure was amicable, and Kimball remained a minority shareholder in the company. The majority shareholder, Boston Common Press, continued to publish Cook’s Illustrated, with Julia Collin Davison and Bridget Lancaster taking over as co-executive editors.
Boston Common Press is a privately held company based in Boston, Massachusetts. The company was founded in 1993 by Christopher Kimball and a group of investors. In addition to Cook’s Illustrated, the company publishes several other magazines, including Cook’s Country and America’s Test Kitchen.
The Future of Cook’s Illustrated: What’s Next for the Magazine?
Despite the departure of Christopher Kimball, Cook’s Illustrated remains a beloved and respected magazine. The publication continues to innovate, with a focus on digital media and online content. The magazine’s website, cooksillustrated.com, features a wealth of recipes, cooking tips, and kitchen equipment reviews.
In recent years, the magazine has expanded its reach, launching a series of cookbooks and television shows. The magazine’s test kitchen has also become a popular destination for cooking classes and workshops.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Cook’s Illustrated
Cook’s Illustrated magazine has come a long way since its founding in 1993. From its humble beginnings as a small, privately held company to its current status as a beloved and respected publication, the magazine has remained true to its core values. With its rigorous testing process, unbiased kitchen equipment reviews, and commitment to providing accurate, reliable recipes, Cook’s Illustrated has built a loyal following.
As the magazine looks to the future, it’s clear that its legacy will continue to inspire home cooks and professional chefs alike. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, Cook’s Illustrated is a trusted source for all your cooking needs.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1993 | Cook’s Illustrated magazine is founded by Christopher Kimball. |
| 2016 | Christopher Kimball leaves Cook’s Illustrated and launches a new magazine, Milk Street. |
- Cook’s Illustrated magazine is published by Boston Common Press, a privately held company based in Boston, Massachusetts.
- The magazine’s test kitchen is located in Brookline, Massachusetts, and is staffed by a team of experienced cooks and food scientists.
What is Cook’s Illustrated Magazine?
Cook’s Illustrated Magazine is a popular American cooking magazine that focuses on providing detailed recipes, cooking techniques, and product reviews for home cooks. The magazine is known for its rigorous testing and evaluation of recipes, ingredients, and cooking tools, making it a trusted resource for those looking to improve their cooking skills.
The magazine’s approach to cooking is centered around the idea of using science and experimentation to develop foolproof recipes that work for everyone, regardless of their skill level. Each recipe is tested multiple times by the magazine’s team of cooks and editors to ensure that it is accurate, reliable, and easy to follow.
Who is the publisher of Cook’s Illustrated Magazine?
The publisher of Cook’s Illustrated Magazine is America’s Test Kitchen, a company that was founded in 1993 by Christopher Kimball. America’s Test Kitchen is a well-respected brand in the cooking industry, and it has become synonymous with high-quality recipes, cooking techniques, and product reviews.
Under the leadership of Christopher Kimball, America’s Test Kitchen has grown to become one of the largest and most influential cooking media companies in the world. The company produces a range of cooking magazines, including Cook’s Illustrated, as well as cookbooks, television shows, and online content.
What is the history of Cook’s Illustrated Magazine?
Cook’s Illustrated Magazine was first published in 1993 by Christopher Kimball, who had a vision of creating a cooking magazine that would provide home cooks with accurate, reliable, and easy-to-follow recipes. The magazine quickly gained a loyal following, thanks to its rigorous testing and evaluation of recipes, ingredients, and cooking tools.
Over the years, Cook’s Illustrated Magazine has continued to evolve and improve, with a growing team of cooks, editors, and writers contributing to its content. The magazine has also expanded its reach through digital media, including a website and social media channels, making it easier for home cooks to access its recipes and cooking advice.
What sets Cook’s Illustrated Magazine apart from other cooking magazines?
Cook’s Illustrated Magazine is set apart from other cooking magazines by its rigorous testing and evaluation of recipes, ingredients, and cooking tools. The magazine’s team of cooks and editors test each recipe multiple times to ensure that it is accurate, reliable, and easy to follow, making it a trusted resource for home cooks.
Another key feature that sets Cook’s Illustrated Magazine apart is its focus on using science and experimentation to develop foolproof recipes. The magazine’s team of cooks and editors use a range of techniques, including blind tastings and product testing, to develop recipes that work for everyone, regardless of their skill level.
How does Cook’s Illustrated Magazine develop its recipes?
Cook’s Illustrated Magazine develops its recipes through a rigorous testing and evaluation process. The magazine’s team of cooks and editors start by researching and developing a concept for a recipe, which is then tested multiple times to ensure that it is accurate, reliable, and easy to follow.
The magazine’s team of cooks and editors use a range of techniques, including blind tastings and product testing, to refine and perfect each recipe. The team also conducts extensive research on ingredients, cooking techniques, and cooking tools to ensure that each recipe is accurate and reliable.
What kind of content can I expect to find in Cook’s Illustrated Magazine?
Cook’s Illustrated Magazine features a range of content, including recipes, cooking techniques, product reviews, and kitchen advice. The magazine’s recipes are developed through a rigorous testing and evaluation process, making them accurate, reliable, and easy to follow.
In addition to recipes, Cook’s Illustrated Magazine also features articles on cooking techniques, ingredient guides, and product reviews. The magazine’s team of cooks and editors provide expert advice on a range of topics, from cooking basics to advanced techniques, making it a valuable resource for home cooks of all skill levels.
Is Cook’s Illustrated Magazine available in digital format?
Yes, Cook’s Illustrated Magazine is available in digital format. The magazine’s website and social media channels provide access to its recipes, cooking advice, and product reviews, making it easier for home cooks to access its content.
The magazine’s digital edition is available on a range of platforms, including tablets, smartphones, and e-readers. The digital edition features all of the same content as the print edition, including recipes, cooking techniques, product reviews, and kitchen advice.