Why I Still Buy Cookbooks & The Best Ones To Get
In a digital age, cookbooks remain beloved treasures for many reasons. They offer reliability, culture, art, and a tactile experience that digital screens can’t match.
Despite the convenience of digital recipes and cooking apps, cookbooks continue to hold a special place in many kitchens and hearts. There’s something about flipping through the pages of a well-crafted cookbook that transcends the simplicity of searching for a recipe online. But why do people still buy cookbooks in an age where a quick Google search can yield thousands of recipes in seconds?
In This Article
- Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat
- Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child
- Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking by Marcella Hazan
- The Food Lab by J. Kenji López-Alt
- Plantasia by Pamelia Chia
- Matty Matheson: Home Style Cookery
- Dessert Person by Claire Saffitz
- Dishoom: From Bombay With Love For
The Tangibility of Cookbooks
For many, cookbooks are more than just functional – they’re cherished items that can be passed down through generations, filled with notes, spills, and memories. For years, I still refer to a notebook where I write and even draw some of the recipes my family have narrated to me or notes from my mother on techniques and ingredients.
Cookbooks have also evolved into an artform. Many are beautifully designed, with high-quality photography, thoughtful layouts, and even illustrations that make them as much coffee table books as kitchen manuals. For many, buying a cookbook is like buying a piece of art.
Curated Recipes That Inspire Communities
While the internet is brimming with recipes, not all are created equal. Cookbooks, especially those written by renowned chefs and authors, are curated collections of tested and perfected dishes. The recipes are usually part of a larger narrative or theme, whether it’s a journey through regional cuisine or a deep dive into a specific cooking technique.
Cookbooks also spawn communities and cults – in a good way. When I first read now-defunct magazine Lucky Peach, it inspired me to cook more with their approach to covering food. Instead of just recipes and reviews, the magazine explores stories, histories and trends.
There are even “Cookbook Clubs” now where a group of like-minded, food nerd friends – proud to be in one – choose a dish and recipe from a cookbook to make and later discuss and talk about it while eating of course.
Some Classic Cookbooks To Consider
Want to get started and inspired? For those looking to add to their collection, here are some of the best cookbooks that continue to captivate anyone with an interest in food and cooking.
Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat
This book is a masterclass in understanding the four fundamental elements of cooking. Samin Nosrat breaks down complex concepts into easy-to-understand lessons, making this a must-have for anyone looking to improve their cooking skills. Honestly, these are the four elements I go back to when cooking and if i feel it is lacking something, I ask myself which out of the four is missing.
Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat, $39.97 (U.P. $62.95), Buy it now
Ottolenghi Simple by Yotam Ottolenghi
His cookbooks and restaurants have redefined modern cooking, making complex dishes accessible to home cooks. Known for his vibrant, Middle Eastern-inspired dishes, Yotam Ottolenghi's emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and his creative culinary approach have earned him widespread acclaim. In Simple, he offers recipes that are accessible without sacrificing flavour. Can’t get enough? There’s also a set of Ottolenghi’s books available.
Ottolenghi Simple by Yotam Ottolenghi, $36.12 (U.P. $73.50), Buy it now
The Joy of Cooking by Irma S. Rombauer and Marion Rombauer Becker
A classic that has been updated and revised for generations, “The Joy of Cooking” is a comprehensive guide that covers everything from basic techniques to complex dishes from all cultures. It’s a staple in many kitchens for a reason and comes with plenty of praise from renowned chefs and also customers who want to cook more.
The Joy of Cooking by Irma S. Rombauer and Marion Rombauer Becker, $50.68, Buy it now
Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child
No list of cookbooks would be complete without Julia Child’s magnum opus. This book has taught generations of people how to cook classic French dishes with confidence and flair. And if anything, Julia Child’s story is inspirational for anyone who has never cooked to start trying!
Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, $31.86, Buy it now
Six Seasons: A New Way with Vegetables by Joshua McFadden
We haven’t forgotten the veggie lovers! This cookbook is a celebration of vegetables, offering innovative ways to prepare and enjoy them. It’s perfect for those who want to eat more plant-based meals without compromising on taste. On top of that, it’s also a great into to seasonal vegetables and what they are – giving some insight to how restaurants plan seasonal menus.
Six Seasons: A New Way with Vegetables by Joshua McFadden, $40.28 (U.P. $65.27), Buy it now
Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking by Marcella Hazan
This cookbook is revered for its precise instructions and deep understanding of traditional Italian cooking techniques, offering timeless recipes that capture the true essence of Italy’s culinary heritage. Marcella Hazan's clear, precise instructions and deep understanding of traditional techniques make even the most complex dishes approachable.
Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking by Marcella Hazan, $62.70 (U.P. $84), Buy it now
The Food Lab by J. Kenji López-Alt
This is a must-have for anyone serious about cooking. J. Kenji López-Alt's scientific approach to recipes offers a deep understanding of the "why" behind cooking techniques, making it both educational and practical. This book turns the kitchen into a laboratory where you can perfect your favourite dishes like scrambled eggs and and roast meats, making it a cornerstone for home cooks who love to experiment and learn.
The Food Lab by J. Kenji López-Alt, $52.96 (U.P. $82.95), Buy it nowModern Classic Cookbooks To Add
If you like something more experimental or casual, these cooking books are great for recipes that you will keep going back to. Plus, they make beautiful books to add to the collection as well.
Xi'an Famous Foods: The Cuisine of Western China, from New York’s Favorite Noodle Shop
When all the world was obsessed with making sourdough bread, I was fixated on recreating the biang biang noodles from Xi’an Famous Foods. The dish is a signature from this New York eatery and during the pandemic, they sold home cooking kits of their popular dishes. Feeling FOMO, I decided to make it from scratch. If there’s a word to describe the book, it’s generous. It offers authentic recipes from the shop that capture the essence of Xi'an's street food, making it accessible for home cooks.
Xi'an Famous Foods: The Cuisine of Western China, $39.95 (U.P $61.04), Buy it now
The New York Times Cooking No-Recipe Recipes
NYT Cooking is a source of very good recipes that range from experimental to easy peasy. With its focus on simple, adaptable ideas, it encourages creativity and allows cooks to trust their instincts. It's perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed, intuitive approach to cooking, making it a refreshing addition to any kitchen.
The New York Times Cooking No-Recipe Recipes, $29.31 (U.P. $58), Buy it now
Let’s just say we can all relate to Singaporean chef Pamelia Chia’s experience of growing up in Singapore where most dishes were meat and seafood-centric. With Plantasia, she focuses on plant-based – but still delicious! – eating, that highlight the beauty and versatility of vegetables. She showcases dishes and ingredients you can easily find on Asian menus like eggplant, kimchi, beansprouts and tempeh.
Plantasia by Pamelia Chia, $52.22 (U.P. $59.95), Buy it now
Matty Matheson: Home Style Cookery
If you’re a fan of hit TV show The Bear, you’ll recognise Matty immediately. The real life chef has a few eateries and cookbooks under his name and is known for for his energetic personality and love for hearty, satisfying dishes. In Home Cooking, he plays with bold flavours and elevates comfort food you can make at home. I’ve used his recipes for roast chicken, loaded sandwiches and salads a couple of times with great success.
Matty Matheson: Home Style Cookery, $41.32 (U.P $61.04), Buy it now
Dessert Person by Claire Saffitz
Making desserts at home can be so damn hard – that’s why you need a confidence boost. The former Bon Appétit star makes the process less intimidating with this wonderful book about baking with clear, informative and easy-to-follow steps. She even troubleshoots with you with whatever can go wrong. Known for adding her own spin to traditional dishes, expect bold flavours, mixing sweet and savoury and recipes that will impress yourself and your friends.
Dessert Person by Claire Saffitz, $35.48 (U.P. $57.95), Buy it now
Dishoom: From Bombay With Love
For those who have dined at Dishoom in London, you’ll understand why it is such a beloved establishment with their take on Bombay comfort food like chocolate chai and bacon naan. The cookbook by the co-founders and head chef combines rich storytelling and authentic recipes that make the brand what it is today. As you learn to cook from the book, you will also be taken on a journey of South Bombay, learning about the culture and the food. We love a cookbook that tells a story!
Dishoom: From Bombay With Love, $37 (U.P. $59.95), Buy it nowOur articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission. Prices are correct at time of publishing.
Related Stories
Shopping
