The Ultimate Cookbook Gift Guide: Discover the Best Recipe Books of 2017 for Every Home Chef
Welcome to my carefully curated selection of the most cherished and coveted cookbooks from the past year. Whether you’re searching for the perfect present for a passionate home cook, an aspiring baker, or simply looking to expand your own culinary horizons, this guide features a collection of truly exceptional recipe books. For even more inspiration, including thoughtful gift pairing ideas, you can explore last year’s comprehensive cookbook guide here.
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Welcome to My Annual Cookbook Gift Guide Extravaganza!
The holiday season is truly a magical time for celebration, giving, and, of course, indulging in delicious food. What better way to spark new culinary adventures and inspire creativity in the kitchen than with a fantastic cookbook? This year, I’m delighted to present my highly anticipated annual cookbook gift guide even earlier than usual. My aim is to ensure you have ample time to explore these exceptional titles, plan your gifts, and take full advantage of the incredible deals and discounts that often pop up during the upcoming shopping season. As a helpful tip, keep an eye out for Cyber Monday, when Amazon frequently offers significant savings on a wide array of books, making it the perfect opportunity to snag these culinary gems.
This carefully curated selection showcases a wonderful blend of tried-and-true favorites that have become indispensable staples in my own kitchen, alongside a handful of highly coveted new releases that are currently at the very top of my personal wishlist. While some of these culinary treasures might technically be a bit older than one year, their enduring appeal, timeless recipes, and consistent utility make them essential additions to any cook’s library. My ultimate goal with this guide is to assist you in discovering the perfect cookbook, either for yourself or for the dedicated food lover in your life, promising to ignite joy, curiosity, and boundless creativity in their culinary endeavors.
I always cherish hearing from you, my readers! If you’ve stumbled upon a cookbook that has particularly captivated your culinary imagination this year, please don’t hesitate to share your recommendations and insights in the comments section below. Your contributions are invaluable and help our vibrant community of food enthusiasts grow and discover new favorites.
My Top Cookbook Recommendations for 2017: Essential Culinary Gifts
This section dives deep into the heart of my gift guide, spotlighting each cookbook that has left a profound and lasting impression on my cooking journey. From foundational guides that teach essential techniques to specialized baking bibles and ingenious solutions for everyday meals, there’s undoubtedly something here to cater to every taste, skill level, and culinary interest. Let’s embark on this delicious exploration of these truly remarkable culinary treasures.
Love Real Food by Kathryne Taylor (Cookie and Kate)
Authored by my incredibly talented fellow blogger friend Kathryne Taylor, Love Real Food has unequivocally earned its place as one of my absolute favorite cookbooks of the year. Its widespread acclaim is not just my personal opinion; it’s resoundingly echoed by over 300 five-star ratings on Amazon, a powerful testament to its universal appeal and effectiveness. If your search is for approachable, incredibly delicious, and wholesome meat-free recipes that can be effortlessly prepared any day of the week, then this book is an absolute must-have. Kathryne excels at making vegetarian cooking accessible and enjoyable, transforming simple, whole ingredients into vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying meals. Her recipes are not only remarkably easy to follow but also place a strong emphasis on fresh, unprocessed produce, making healthy eating a genuine delight. This cookbook is an outstanding resource for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet, whether they are taking their first steps into vegetarianism or are a seasoned enthusiast seeking fresh inspiration.
Dinner: Changing The Game by Melissa Clark
I initially had the pleasure of gifting Dinner: Changing The Game to both my mom and mother-in-law for Mother’s Day. After hearing their enthusiastic praise and witnessing the book’s rapidly growing reputation, it wasn’t long before I decided to purchase a copy for myself a few weeks later. While I admit I haven’t yet had the chance to work my way through every single recipe within its pages, every dish I have prepared has been nothing short of delicious, wonderfully creative, and memorable enough to undoubtedly warrant a repeat performance. Melissa Clark possesses a remarkable talent for transforming everyday ingredients into exciting, sophisticated, yet achievable weeknight meals. It’s true that some of the recipes do call for slightly more unique or harder-to-find ingredients, which can encourage a delightful sense of culinary exploration. However, the true brilliance of this book lies in its unwavering dedication to providing actual, inspiring dinner recipes. It genuinely makes weeknight cooking more interesting and inspiring, helping you to break free from culinary ruts and discover new flavor combinations that elevate your daily meals to something special.
Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking by Samin Nosrat
Without a shadow of a doubt, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat stands as my all-time favorite cookbook from 2017. As you know, I’m a self-proclaimed “sucker” for any sort of comprehensive cooking reference book, and Samin Nosrat’s masterpiece resonated profoundly with me. She accomplishes an incredible feat, teaching the fundamental principles of good cooking – the delicate balance of saltiness, richness (fat), brightness (acid), and the perfect application of heat – in an exceptionally approachable, engaging, and easy-to-understand manner. This isn’t merely a collection of recipes; it is an invaluable educational resource that truly empowers cooks of all levels to understand *why* certain techniques work and how to instinctively adjust and refine flavors. I was so utterly engrossed by its wisdom and beautiful illustrations that I literally read this book cover-to-cover like a captivating novel in just a few days. Its clear explanations and stunning visuals make even complex culinary concepts accessible, fundamentally changing how you think about and approach cooking. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, fostering genuine culinary intuition and confidence.
Sweet by Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh
I have long been a devoted admirer and huge fan of Ottolenghi’s distinctive and globally-inspired cookbooks, and Sweet, his latest offering co-authored with the brilliant Helen Goh, only solidified that profound admiration. This exquisite book is a veritable treasure trove of sweet and dessert recipes, drawing direct inspiration from their renowned London restaurants. Having followed their culinary journey on Instagram for years, I’m consistently captivated and inspired by their unique and often dazzling creations. The recipes showcased within Sweet are truly one-of-a-kind, frequently featuring unexpected twists and innovative flavor combinations that elevate them far above standard dessert fare. From intricate pastries to comforting cakes, each recipe is a delightful journey of flavor and texture, designed to impress and satisfy. This book would make an absolutely magnificent gift for any baker in your life, particularly if thoughtfully paired with a high-quality baking tool or a selection of unique spices, enhancing their ability to recreate these culinary marvels at home.
The Food Lab: Better Home Cooking Through Science by J. Kenji López-Alt
For dedicated fans of Serious Eats or anyone with a deep, scientific curiosity about the mechanics behind cooking, The Food Lab is truly the quintessential, ultimate cooking reference book you absolutely need. This monumental work is undeniably textbook-sized, a reflection of the extraordinary depth and comprehensive nature of its content. J. Kenji López-Alt masterfully employs his rigorous scientific approach to cooking, meticulously demonstrating the most effective, optimal, and often surprising ways to prepare virtually everything in the kitchen. He doesn’t just tell you *how* to cook; he meticulously explains *why* it works, delving into the chemical and physical transformations that occur during the cooking process. Beyond its immense wealth of scientific explanations, the book also includes a substantial number of detailed, thoroughly tested recipes, allowing you to put theory into immediate, delicious practice. It’s an indispensable guide for anyone who wants to truly understand the science of cooking and achieve consistently perfect results, effectively transforming your kitchen into a personal culinary laboratory.
Cooking For Jeffrey by Ina Garten
My long-standing admiration for Ina Garten, the beloved Barefoot Contessa, has always been strong and unwavering, but even I was pleasantly surprised by how frequently I found myself reaching for Cooking For Jeffrey over the past year. While I admittedly wish it featured a greater number of primary dinner recipes, the book still offers an impressively broad and versatile range of options suitable for both comfortable everyday meals and elegant special occasions. Ina’s recipes consistently deliver, always working flawlessly and perfectly aligning with my personal taste preferences for comforting yet sophisticated food. Her roasted salmon tacos have quickly become one of our new favorite weeknight dinners, a testament to their simple deliciousness. In fact, I’m eagerly planning to make her curried shrimp and swordfish stew very soon! This cookbook truly embodies comforting elegance and dependable deliciousness, making it a wonderful and cherished addition to any kitchen, particularly for those who appreciate classic, meticulously tested recipes with a touch of understated sophistication.
Tartine Bread by Chad Robertson
You guys, at the very beginning of this year, I wholeheartedly embarked on a truly significant sourdough bread-baking kick! I found myself completely captivated by the intricate process of starting, nurturing, and maintaining my very own sourdough starter. Although my burgeoning journey into artisanal bread making was temporarily sidetracked by some unexpected travel, one of my firm and exciting goals for the coming year is to diligently maintain my active starter and joyfully share more insights, tips, and posts about the fascinating world of bread baking with all of you. Tartine Bread holds an incredible, almost legendary reputation among serious bakers worldwide, and beyond its stellar, detailed recipes, it also happens to be a remarkably fascinating and enlightening read. Chad Robertson delves deep into the art and science of traditional bread making, offering meticulous instructions, breathtaking photography, and a deep philosophical approach to the craft. If someone you truly love is genuinely interested in mastering the craft of traditional bread baking, this book is an absolute must-have; it’s far more than a mere cookbook, it’s a comprehensive guide and an inspiring companion to a rewarding culinary pursuit.
Cheers to the Publican by Paul Kahan, Cosmo Goss, and Rachel Holtzman
My wonderful partner, Connor, recently surprised me with this exceptional cookbook, knowing it’s a heartfelt and beautifully crafted ode to one of our absolute favorite West Loop restaurants in the vibrant city of Chicago. While its specific appeal might understandably be strongest for those already familiar with The Publican or deeply immersed in Chicago’s dynamic culinary scene, it is undeniably brimming with incredible stories from local farmers and breathtakingly beautiful images that transport you directly to their world. The recipes themselves are incredibly unique and often quite ambitious; fair warning, many of them do require harder-to-find ingredients and definitely lean towards the more challenging side of home cooking. However, the dishes I’ve successfully attempted have been both profoundly delicious and wonderfully thought-provoking, offering a genuine taste of sophisticated, farm-to-table cuisine. For the adventurous cook who profoundly appreciates a compelling story behind their food and isn’t afraid of embracing a significant culinary challenge, especially if they have a special connection to Chicago, this book is truly a hidden gem.
Bravetart: Iconic American Desserts from Past to Present by Stella Parks
Bravetart is undeniably one of those highly coveted cookbooks that has been prominently on my radar for months, and I can confidently say it lives up to every bit of the considerable hype it has generated. Once again, if you are a loyal and dedicated fan of Serious Eats, then this is unequivocally the baking cookbook you absolutely need in your life right now. It is an extensive and meticulously researched collection of recipes, profoundly detailed techniques, and fascinating baking science, all passionately dedicated to recreating beloved nostalgic American treats right in your very own kitchen. Imagine the delight of crafting homemade Oreos, perfecting Twinkies, or even mastering the classic apple pie with scientific precision and incredible, authentic flavor. Stella Parks doesn’t just provide you with recipes; she meticulously explains the *why* behind each ingredient and every crucial step, empowering you to become a more confident, skilled, and understanding baker. I’ve only heard glowing, enthusiastic reviews about this book’s consistent ability to deliver perfect results and elevate homemade versions of cherished American desserts to new, irresistible heights.
Back Pocket Pasta by Colu Henry
As a truly passionate pasta lover, I’ve become a huge and enthusiastic fan of Colu Henry’s Back Pocket Pasta. What genuinely sets this cookbook apart and makes it so indispensable is its refreshingly practical approach to pasta dishes; unlike many other pasta cookbooks that can often be quite time-intensive and complex, this one is brimming with inspired, everyday pasta recipes specifically designed for ease, speed, and maximum flavor. Colu Henry focuses on simple, accessible ingredients and clever, efficient techniques that allow you to whip up incredibly flavorful and profoundly satisfying pasta meals any day of the week, even on the busiest of evenings. It’s absolutely perfect for those hectic weeknights when you crave something comforting, delicious, and homemade without spending hours laboring in the kitchen. From quick, vibrant sauces to inventive flavor combinations, this book beautifully proves that exceptional pasta doesn’t have to be complicated, making it an ideal and thoughtful gift for anyone who deeply appreciates the beauty of a well-made pasta dish without all the fuss and elaborate preparations.
Dinner in an Instant by Melissa Clark
Melissa Clark’s latest cookbook, Dinner in an Instant, is nothing short of a game-changer for anyone who currently owns or is seriously considering purchasing a pressure cooker, particularly the incredibly popular Instant Pot. This entire cookbook is wholeheartedly dedicated to showcasing the remarkable versatility, efficiency, and delicious potential of pressure-cooker recipes. What I particularly appreciate and find truly inspiring is that it’s brimming with creative, modern meals that deliberately stray far from the more basic or traditional pressure-cooker recipes often found elsewhere. Melissa Clark brings her signature ingenuity and culinary expertise to this format, offering sophisticated and flavorful dishes that brilliantly leverage the speed of the Instant Pot without ever sacrificing flavor, quality, or culinary adventure. If you know someone who has an Instant Pot and is eager to unlock its full culinary potential, or if you’re searching for the perfect accompanying gift for a new Instant Pot owner, this cookbook is an absolutely awesome, practical, and incredibly inspiring choice.
Kitchen Creativity: Unlocking Culinary Genius with Wisdom, Notes, and Recipes by Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg
From the esteemed and highly respected authors behind my all-time favorite culinary reference, The Flavor Bible, and its equally insightful and invaluable companion, The Vegetarian Flavor Bible, comes their latest profoundly inspiring work, Kitchen Creativity. This remarkable book delves deep into the art and science of becoming more inventive, imaginative, and truly original in the kitchen. It’s not a conventional recipe book in the traditional sense; instead, it’s a comprehensive guide to culinary thought, fostering innovation and intuition. Drawing on the collective knowledge and brilliant ideas of renowned chefs, it teaches you practical strategies to jump-start your creative process, effectively overcome culinary blocks, and confidently develop your own unique dishes and flavor combinations. Furthermore, it shares fascinating historical insights into the evolution of iconic dishes from across the globe, providing a rich and captivating tapestry of culinary wisdom. For any cook seeking to move beyond simply following recipes and genuinely master the art of creating their own culinary masterpieces, this book is an unparalleled resource for fostering genuine culinary genius.
Why Cookbooks Make the Perfect Gift for Every Food Lover
Cookbooks are far more than mere collections of recipes; they are profound sources of inspiration, invaluable knowledge, and deep connection. Gifting a cookbook demonstrates immense thoughtfulness and a keen understanding of the recipient’s passions and interests. They actively encourage experimentation, the exciting pursuit of learning new skills, and perhaps most importantly, the joy of sharing delicious meals and cherished moments with loved ones. Each carefully crafted book tells a unique story, offers a captivating journey through different cuisines or culinary techniques, and has the potential to become a truly cherished item in a home kitchen. From the eager aspiring baker to the seasoned, experienced chef, there is undoubtedly a perfect cookbook out there for everyone, just waiting to spark their next great culinary adventure and fill their kitchen with wonderful aromas.
Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Cookbook as a Gift
Selecting the ideal cookbook can be a delightful, yet sometimes daunting task. Here are some key considerations to help you choose the perfect culinary companion:
- Consider Their Skill Level: Is the recipient a complete beginner just starting their culinary journey, an intermediate cook looking to refine their skills, or an advanced culinary enthusiast seeking complex challenges? Some books are best for learning foundational techniques, while others are designed to challenge and inspire experienced chefs.
- Think About Their Interests and Preferences: Do they have a particular love for baking, an adventurous palate for international cuisine, a need for quick and easy weeknight meals, or a focus on healthy and nutritious eating? Tailor your choice specifically to their individual culinary preferences and dietary needs.
- Browse Reviews and Recommendations: Online reviews from fellow home cooks and culinary experts can offer invaluable insights into a book’s strengths, potential weaknesses, and overall suitability for different types of cooks. Pay attention to comments on clarity, recipe reliability, and ingredient accessibility.
- Look at the Visuals and Photography: Beautiful, inspiring photography can be incredibly motivating and greatly elevate the overall cooking experience. A cookbook with appealing images often encourages more engagement and excitement about trying new recipes.
- Check for Practicality and Ingredient Availability: Are the recipes approachable and do they primarily use readily available ingredients, or do they frequently call for highly specialized or harder-to-find items? Consider the recipient’s access to diverse grocery stores and their willingness to seek out unique components.
Conclusion: Happy Cooking and Joyful Gifting!
I sincerely hope that this comprehensive guide to my favorite cookbooks of 2017 has provided you with an abundance of inspiration for your holiday shopping, or perhaps even sparked some exciting new ideas for your very own kitchen adventures. Each of these exceptional books has truly earned its esteemed place on my curated list through its unique contributions to the culinary world, offering everything from foundational knowledge and practical skills to exciting new recipes and profound culinary insights. Whether you’re gifting a guide to fundamental cooking techniques, a collection of comforting and familiar recipes, or an exploration of scientific cooking principles, you are undoubtedly giving the invaluable gift of discovery, learning, and deliciousness.
May your kitchens be perpetually filled with wonderful aromas, joyful laughter, and unforgettable meals shared with those you cherish. Happy cooking, and even happier gifting!
Important Note: It is crucial to mention that none of the items featured in this comprehensive guide have been sponsored or paid for directly. However, I did receive two of these fantastic cookbooks specifically for review purposes. Furthermore, this post contains Amazon and RewardStyle affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase an item through any of my provided links, I will earn a very small commission from the retailer. Rest assured, this commission comes at absolutely no additional cost to you, the buyer. Your support through these links helps me continue to share valuable content, honest recommendations, and delightful culinary inspiration with all of you.