Have a look at 'The Cook's Book' which focuses in detail on step-by step techniques, with photos. Various chefs from around the world have contributed but is aimed at the home cook. The editor is Jill Norman. It's had great reviews on Amazon. I'm very tempted myself, but am running short on cook-book shelf space. Edit: You could also consider "Cookwise" by Shirley Corriher. Her interest is on ingredients and how they work together with the emphasis is on why recipes do/don't work and how to prevent problems in the first place.