Takashi's Noodles

Expertly synthesizing his experience in French, American and Japanese kitchens, James Beard Award-winning chef Yagihashi gives noodle-philiacs 75 inventive, appetizing reasons to drop the take-out and roll up their sleeves. Divided by noodle type (ramen, soba, udon, somen, other Asian noodles and pasta), offerings like sake-steamed chicken with ramen, beef short ribs served with chewy saifun bean threads, and classics like Pad Thai and pho, all showcase the versatility of the simple noodle. International riffs like Soba Gnocchi with Celery Root Foam, Cassoulet of Crab, Kimchi and Harusame and the down-home comfort of Corned Beef with Rice Noodles exemplify Yagihashi's global approach. Instructions for making one's own soba noodles, egg pasta and somen (as well as six dipping sauces) complete the roundup, and sticklers for detail will be pleased that Yagihashi is not one to cut corners. Though it contains recipes for practically every skill level and taste, cooks without access to a well-stocked Asian grocery are likely to wind up frustrated. Noodle fans with a stocked pantry will have plenty to slurp about. 40 color photos.