Maria Rundell collected recipes and household tips for her daughters.
When John Murray published these as 'Domestic Cookery' (1806) it was a surprising and immediate success.
It was so popular that it went through 65 editions in only 35 years. The original edition was extended and engravings were added.
British and other recipes
'Domestic Cookery' included the first printed reference to Scotch eggs, as well as recipes for mince pies and several suggestions for pig's ears and feet.
In addition to the British and European recipes, the book included Indian curries and pickles and Chinese food.
Although Rundell and John Murray II began as friends, their relationship broke down and ended in ill-tempered threats of legal action.
In the end Murray had to pay Rundell £2,100 to settle the matter.
Highlights in the John Murray Archive
