From Classic Favorites to Innovative New Releases: The Top Cookbooks of the Year
As the year comes to a close, it’s time to look back at some of the best cookbooks that graced our shelves in 2021. From classic favorites to innovative new releases, this year has been filled with delicious recipes, inspiring stories, and beautiful food photography. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, there’s a cookbook on this list that’s sure to spark your culinary creativity.
Classic Favorites: Timeless Recipes That Never Go Out of Style
For those who love to stick to the classics, there were several standout cookbooks this year that delivered beloved recipes with a fresh twist. “The Joy of Cooking” by Irma S. Rombauer and Marion Rombauer Becker is a timeless favorite that got an update this year with new recipes and modernized techniques. Another classic favorite that made a splash in 2021 was “Magnolia Table: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering” by Joanna Gaines. This cookbook is filled with comforting recipes that are perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Innovative New Releases: Pushing the Boundaries of Culinary Creativity
If you’re someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen, there were plenty of innovative new releases this year that pushed the boundaries of culinary creativity. “Vegetable Kingdom” by Bryant Terry is a plant-based cookbook that celebrates the diversity and flavor of vegetables. With vibrant recipes like Roasted Cauliflower with Mustard and Lemon, this cookbook will inspire you to think outside the box and try new ingredients. Another standout new release was “A Good Bake” by Melissa Weller, which is filled with inventive baking recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Culinary Trends: Embracing Global Flavors and Techniques
One of the biggest culinary trends of 2021 was the embrace of global flavors and techniques in cookbooks. “Xi’an Famous Foods” by Jason Wang and Jessica Chou is a celebration of the bold and flavorful cuisine of Xi’an, China. With recipes like Spicy Cumin Lamb Noodles and Hand-Ripped Noodles with Spicy Sour Sauce, this cookbook will transport you to the bustling streets of Xi’an. Another cookbook that embraced global flavors was “In Bibi’s Kitchen” by Hawa Hassan and Julia Turshen, which showcases the vibrant and diverse cuisines of eight African countries.
Cookbooks for Special Diets: Catering to Every Dietary Need
For those with special dietary needs, there were several cookbooks in 2021 that catered to a variety of diets. “Plant-Based Cookbook” by America’s Test Kitchen is a comprehensive guide to cooking delicious and satisfying plant-based meals. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to incorporate more plants into your diet, this cookbook has you covered. Another standout cookbook for special diets was “The Everything Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Cookbook” by Audrey Roberts, which is filled with flavorful recipes that cater to those with gluten and dairy sensitivities.
Honorable Mentions: Cookbooks That Deserve a Spot on Your Shelf
In addition to the top cookbooks of the year, there were several honorable mentions that deserve a spot on your shelf. “Dessert Person” by Claire Saffitz is a baking cookbook that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen with recipes like Chocolate Babka and Pistachio and Raspberry Financiers. Another honorable mention is “Xi’an: Famous Foods” by Jason Wang and Jessica Chou, which celebrates the bold and flavorful cuisine of Xi’an, China.
As we bid farewell to 2021, let’s raise a toast to the incredible cookbooks that have filled our kitchens with joy, inspiration, and delicious food. Whether you’re drawn to classic favorites or innovative new releases, there’s something for everyone on this list of the top cookbooks of the year. Happy cooking!
