Popular Cookbooks Reviewed

Cookbooks have been a staple in kitchens for centuries. From handwritten family recipes passed down from generation to generation, to professionally published tomes filled with intricate and exotic dishes, there is a cookbook for every taste and skill level. With the rise of the internet, there are now more cookbooks available than ever before, making it hard to choose which ones to invest in for your kitchen library. In this blog post, we will be discussing some of the most popular cookbooks on the market today. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, these cookbooks are sure to become staples in your kitchen.

  1. “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” by Julia Child, Louisette Bertholle, and Simone Beck

This cookbook, first published in 1961, is a classic in the culinary world. Julia Child’s warm and approachable voice guides readers through traditional French techniques and recipes, making French cooking accessible to the home cook. From boeuf bourguignon to crème brûlée, this cookbook has everything you need to create a classic French meal in your own kitchen.

  1. “The Joy of Cooking” by Irma S. Rombauer and Marion Rombauer Becker

First published in 1931, “The Joy of Cooking” is considered a cornerstone of American cooking. This comprehensive cookbook covers everything from basic kitchen techniques to more advanced recipes, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced cooks. The warm and approachable writing style, along with the numerous tips and tricks, make this cookbook a joy to use.

  1. “How to Cook Everything” by Mark Bittman

Mark Bittman’s “How to Cook Everything” is a comprehensive guide to basic cooking techniques and recipes. With over 2,000 recipes, this cookbook covers everything from simple weeknight dinners to more elaborate dishes for special occasions. Bittman’s straightforward writing style and clear instructions make this cookbook a great choice for both novice and experienced cooks.

  1. “The Silver Spoon” by Phaidon

“The Silver Spoon” is a massive, beautifully illustrated cookbook that showcases the best of Italian cooking. From antipasti to dolci, this cookbook has everything you need to create a delicious Italian feast. The clear and concise instructions, along with the beautiful photographs, make this cookbook a joy to use.

  1. “The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook” by Ina Garten

Ina Garten’s “The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook” is a collection of her most popular recipes and entertaining tips. From simple, yet elegant, dishes like roasted salmon to more elaborate feasts like bouillabaisse, this cookbook has something for every occasion. Garten’s warm and approachable writing style, along with her delicious recipes, make this cookbook a must-have for any home cook.

  1. “Thug Kitchen: The Official Cookbook” by Thug Kitchen

Thug Kitchen’s cookbook is a fresh and funky take on healthy eating. With a focus on plant-based ingredients, this cookbook provides a range of recipes that are both delicious and nutritious. From hearty breakfasts to flavorful dinners, this cookbook has something for every meal of the day. The fun and irreverent writing style, along with the delicious recipes, make this cookbook a great choice for anyone looking to up their healthy eating game.

"The Essential New York Times Cookbook" by Amanda Hesser is a comprehensive and well-regarded cookbook that brings together over 1,000 of the best recipes published in The New York Times. The book is organized by course and ingredient, making it easy to find the perfect recipe for any occasion.

Hesser's writing style is engaging and informative, and she provides helpful tips and techniques throughout the book. The recipes are clearly written and easy to follow, and the ingredients are widely available and straightforward. The book also includes beautiful photographs of many of the dishes, making it a pleasure to peruse.

One of the standout features of this cookbook is the diversity of recipes it offers. Hesser has gathered recipes from a wide range of cuisines, including American, Italian, French, and Asian, and she has included classic dishes as well as contemporary creations. Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast, you're sure to find something in this book that will suit your needs.

Overall, "The Essential New York Times Cookbook" is an excellent resource for home cooks of all levels. It offers a wealth of recipes, tips, and techniques, and its wide range of cuisines and dishes make it a valuable addition to any kitchen library. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this book is sure to inspire and inform.