Spice Up Your Life with These Cookbook Recommendations
Cameron CapelloJan 31 2024
Any fellow foodies out there in this bookish universe?! If your idea of a perfect day involves experimenting with new recipes, then you're in for a treat. We've scoured the culinary world to bring you the latest and greatest in trending cookbooks. From unconventional cuisines to culinary hacks that will make you the kitchen wizard you were always meant to be, let's dive into the mouth-watering world of cookbooks that everyone's buzzing about.
“Mayumu” by Abi Balingit
When the pandemic started her lonely work-from-home life in 2020, Abi Balingit channeled all her energy into the one thing that brought her joy: baking. In her tiny, dimly lit, and shared kitchen, she produced hundreds of “pasalubong” (souvenir) boxes filled with especially creative treats that blended the Filipino treats and Western-style baked goods she grew up with. Each time, she’d sell out within hours and would donate the proceeds to support her community in need.Filipino desserts are a delightful fusion of sweet, tropical flavors, often characterized by a perfect balance between creamy and refreshing elements. Be sure to check out this book for recipes like Matcha Pastillas and Halo-Halo Baked Alaska!
“Real Bento” by Kanae Inoue
The history of bento boxes dates back centuries in Japan, with its origins rooted in practicality, cultural traditions, and aesthetic principles. The term "bento" itself comes from the Southern Song Dynasty in China, where it referred to convenient, compact meals.In “Real Bento,” Inoue presents 200 recipes, divided into "main dishes" and "sides" for 22 completed bento boxes. The colorful photos and step-by-step instructions make this an incredibly practical and easy-to-use resource for busy households! In her recipes, Inoue places great emphasis on healthy, fresh, and colorful foods that look and taste great when presented together.
“In Bibi's Kitchen” by Hawa Hassan and Julia Turshen
East African cuisine is a diverse and flavorful culinary landscape shaped by the region's rich history, geography, and cultural influences. It encompasses the countries of South Africa, Mozambique, Madagascar, Comoros, Tanzania, Kenya, Somalia, and Eritrea, each contributing their unique ingredients and cooking techniques as the eight countries at the backbone of the spice trade. Through Hawa’s writing—and her own personal story—the women, and the stories behind the recipes, come to life. With evocative photography shot on location by Khadija Farah, and food photography by Jennifer May, “In Bibi's Kitchen” uses food to teach us all about families, war, loss, migration, refuge, and sanctuary.
“Dessert Person” by Claire Saffitz
Claire Saffitz is a pastry chef, food writer, and YouTube personality. One of Claire's notable projects at Bon Appetit was the video series "Gourmet Makes," where she attempted to recreate popular and nostalgic snacks or treats, often with a gourmet twist. The series showcased her culinary skills, problem-solving abilities, and her willingness to take on challenging recipes.In "Dessert Person, " fans will find Claire’s signature spin on sweet and savory recipes, such as Babkallah (a babka-challah mashup), Apple and Concord Grape Crumble Pie, Strawberry-Cornmeal Layer Cake, Crispy Mushroom Galette, and Malted Forever Brownies.
Mayumu
By Abi Balingit
Real Bento
By Kanae Inoue
In Bibi's Kitchen
By Hawa Hassan and Julia Turshen
Dessert Person
By Claire Saffitz
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Cameron or otherwise known as @chamberofsecretbooks on TikTok, loves to make videos about angsty enemies-to-lovers, fictional bad boys, and the books she's loving! She’s currently reading It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey with her book club on Fable.