PS. This is a work-in-progress list. Many many many more cookbooks are going to be added to it over the next few weeks.
With modern technology and the ease of accessing recipes at the touch of a button, cookbooks feel a bit outdated. But there is a different sort of pleasure that you get from cooking recipes from a curated collection by your favourite chef or author. Apart from the famous chefs such as Nigella Lawson, Jamie Olivier, Julia Child, Gordon Ramsey, Martha Stewart, Bobby Flay and the likes; there is really a world of books out there that provide culinary inspiration and introduce you to new flavors and techniques.
Whether you store the cookbooks in a kitchen cabinet or in a pantry drawer, these cookbooks are a must-have. The time taken by the chefs and authors to test and retest recipes and the inspiration they provide is well worth it. Then there’s the history and nostalgia attached to some cookbooks, and the learnings about your own culture or that of others that make a cookbook an adventure in itself. So why wait? Buy yourself another cookbook today!
1. 52 Shabbats: Friday Night Dinners Inspired by a Global Jewish Kitchen
Whether you're Jewish or not, Faith Kramer's book "52 Shabbats: Friday Night Dinners Inspired by a Global Jewish Kitchen" is a must-have. Packed with recipes that both new or experienced cooks can make, the dishes are flavorful and delcious. With over fifty main recipes, and more than twenty sides and desserts, the recipes are sure to become regulars at your kitchen table. Faith also delves into the background of the dishes and substitutions that can be made to suit your flavors and tastes.
A household name in India, Chef Michael Swamy graduated from the Le Cordon Bleu and has been called "the historian chef" because of his indepth study of different cuisines. A Gourmand Award winning author, his book Masala Dabba delves into the flavors of the Indian Spice box, showcasing a melange of culinary techniques and unique spice blends.
3. Jevayla Ye – Everyday East Indian Recipes from Abby’s Hearth
People often wrongly assume that East Indians come from the Eastern coast of India, when in actuality they don't. East Indians come from Mumbai, while the people from the Eastern coast are Hyderabadis, Bengalis, Tamilians, and others. The East Indian community in Mumbai is working hard to preserve their culture and once such enterprise was this cookbook, a labor of love by sister's Abby and Sarah. In Jevayla Ye: Everyday East Indian recipes, the duo has recorded as many of mom's and granny's traditional recipes as they can. With 195 recipes from everyday meats and veggies, to dishes made for Easter or Christmas, this book takes you through the unique culinary heritage of the East Indian community.
4. Chinese Instant Pot Cookbook: 60 Quick and Easy Classic Recipes
Chinese food tastes amazing but making it at home may be scary. The high expectations dashed when food doesn't turn out the way the restaurant make it. Step in Cookbook Author Sharon Wong. Sharon has made Chinese cooking easy and accessible in an Instant Pot. Using fewer ingredients and easy-to-find ingredients, you can now make mouthwatering Chinese meals at home.
5. The Duke’s Mayonnaise Cookbook: 75 Recipes Celebrating the Perfect Condiment
Duke's Mayonnaise, a Southern staple that's creamy and smooth has been a favorite for years. Join Ashey Strickland Freeman as she shows you how to cook with it in newer delicious ways. With 75 recipes celebrating the sunshine yellow condiment, this book is sure to make your mouth water.
6. Vegan Wholesome: High-Protein Meals and Snacks to Energize and Nourish
Eating a protein-rich plant-based vegan diet can be challenging. If you want to make the most of your vegan diet and incorporate protein-rich ingredients, this book of flavorful and Wholesome Vegan recipes by Brandi Doming has you covered. Featuring 100 oil-free snacks and meals that are satisfying and energizing, Vegan Wholesome will help you meet your daily protein goals.
7. Practically Homemade Cookies & Bars: Gourmet treats that start with a cake mix
Not everyone has time to start baking from scratch. But that doesn't mean you can't get delicious cookies or gourmet treats using cookie mixes. June who is a mother of four, restaurant owner, and a high school culinary teacher will teach you how to turn the simplest of store-bought cake mixes into exquisite delights.
8. The “I Love My Air Fryer” Cooking for One Recipe Book
Not sure what to make that will be only single-serving? Trying to reduce food waste while cooking with your air fryer? Heather Johnson presents 175 easy yet delicious sing;e-serving recipes that are perfectly portioned. From pulled pork pizza to orange chicken to mouthwatering potato skins, The “I Love My Air Fryer” Cooking for One Recipe Book will satisfy you from breakfast to dinner.
9. Fermented Hot Sauce Cookbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hot Sauce From Scratch
Hot or mild, the world of fermented hot sauce awaits. Written by Kristen Wood of Moon and Spoon and Yum, this book is the perfect guide to making the right sauce every time. The beginner-friendly book covers recipes from the Carribean, Asia, Africa and more. From Smoky chocolate-cherry mole to chimichurri verde, there's a sauce here for everyone!
Comment and let us know which of these books you already have and which of these books you’re going to grab next! And any other new books that should go on this list, comment and let us know those too!