Anyone who knows me, knows that I love to cook and entertain. While I create a ton of my own recipes, I also have several favorite go-to cookbooks that I absolutely love. Some are classic, some are modern, and some are just so much fun. From Asian to French, Cuban and Mexican, and everything in between. These are some of the best recipe books for people who love to cook!
Just a reminder, that as an Amazon Associate, I may earn compensation when you make any Amazon purchase through one of my links. There is no additional cost to you. These purchases help my site continue growing and providing delicious recipes for you. Thank you for your support!
101 Asian Dishes You Need to Cook Before You Die by Jet Tila
Every kitchen needs this fabulous cookbook! Jet Tila not only shares amazing recipes, he also shares his notes on ingredients, shopping, and the Yum Philosophy. He shares part of his history and it is apparent that cooking is in his soul. I got this book just as I was heading out on a vacation, and I actually read it on the flight – I was so hungry when I landed! Everything I’ve made so far has been fantastic, including his Famous Drunken Noodles and The Last Pad Thai Recipe You’ll Ever Need!
Memories of a Cuban Kitchen by Mary Urrutia Randelman and Joan Schwartz
I searched through so many Cuban cookbooks before deciding on Memories of a Cuban Kitchen, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice! The recipes are great for every day dinner or for entertaining and occasions. There is a fantastic glossary of Cuban ingredients, and the personal stories and memories shared with these recipes bring such connection to the food and Cuban culture. I made several of the recipes to serve to my book club when we read Next Year in Havana. The Ropa Vieja is so tender and tasty, and the Quick and Easy Black Beans (Frijoles de Lata) are the perfect side. And, did I mention the Baked Sweet Plantains?! Mouthwatering!
Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Simone Beck, and Louisette Bertolle
Julia Child is one of the greats! Her detailed recipes in Mastering the Art of French Cooking are easy to follow, and she offers helpful information on cooking terminology, equipment, and ingredients! She even discusses measurements, techniques, and tips on cooking with wine. The Coq Au Vin is a favorite, which my family lovingly refers to as Purple Chicken.
In Bibi’s Kitchen by Hawa Hassan with Julia Turshen
This book is fantastic! In Bibi’s Kitchen: The Recipes and Stories of Grandmothers from the Eight African Countries that Touch the Indian Ocean provides a rich history of the grandmothers that share their recipes. Try delicious new mouthwatering meals, like Plantains with Coconut and Prawns from Ma Josephina of Mozambique and Ma Baomaka’s Katilesy Beef and Potato Fritters from Madagascar. And don’t miss the Grilled Lobster Tails with Vanilla Sauce from Comoros!
Joy of Cooking by Irma S. Rombauer and Marion Rombauer Becker
Almost everyone out there has heard of Joy of Cooking. Written by Irma Rombauer, it has been revised and edited numerous times by her family members. The original was printed in 1931, and it has expanded to over 4600 recipes! My copy was printed in 1975 and given to me by my grandmother a few years ago. There are recipes for just about anything, from appetizers to desserts and everything in between.
If you’ve watched the Food Network, chances are you know the it takes skill to Beat Bobby Flay! This is one of the best recipe books for modern cooking. His cookbook Bobby at Home: Fearless Flavors from My Kitchen has classic recipes, like The Perfect Burger and Chocolate Chip Cookies, along with some amazingly delicious flavor combinations like Mussels in Green Curry and his Crispy Coconut-Scallion Rice! Oh, did I mention the masterful Mashed Potatoes with Green Chili Queso Sauce? You have to try these!
Mexico: the Cookbook by Margarita Carrillo Arronte
If you love Mexican flavors, then Mexico: the Cookbook is a must-have! You will find 704 pages of delicious recipes and beautiful food photography. There are sections on ingredients and regions, and each recipe identifies the region of origin. This book will expand your definition of Mexican food as it introduces you to flavor profiles you didn’t know you needed. Be sure to check out the section for Guest Chefs at the end. Try the Poblano Chile and Shrimp Soup from Guerrero, the tasty Crab Tostadas from the Gulf region, and Walnut Candy from Coahuila!
Dumplings: Over 100 Recipes from the Heart of China to the Coasts of Italy by Derek Bissonnette
Dumplings: Over 100 Recipes from the Heart of China to the Coasts of Italy is a new favorite! There are easy to follow recipes for dumplings from various world cuisines, as well as soups, desserts, and pairings with tasty sauces. There are so many to choose from, you won’t know where to start – Chicken Gyoza, TIbetan Momos, Lobster Wontons, Lemon Curd Samosas, Empanadas, southern Hush Puppies, and so much more! My advice – just start somewhere and enjoy every bite!
100 Cookies: The Baking Book for Every Kitchen by Sarah Kieffer
I am so glad this book was recommended to me! 100 Cookies: The Baking Book for Every Kitchen with Classic Cookies, Novel Treats, Brownies, Bars, and More has so may delicious recipes and beautiful photography! The author includes general baking advice, as well as tips on equipment and ingredients. This is one of the best recipe books for tasty sweets! You will find classics like Sugar Cookies, Snickerdoodles, and Fudgy Brownies, and scrumptious new favorites like Banana Cream Pie Bars, amazing Rocky Road Brownies, Ginger Cookies with easy no-churn Salted Caramel Ice Cream, and Oatmeal Cream Pies!
Macaron School by Camila Hurst
I love Macaron School! This book includes detailed instructions for making macaron shells, including helpful step-by-step photos. It gives info on the basic ingredients and the Swiss method technique for making macarons. There are recipes for flavored shells and so many decadent fillings! Try lemon meringue, churro, caramel macchiato, and many more! If you’ve ever wanted to learn the art of macaron-making, this is the book for you!
Recent Comments