10 Most Gifted Indian Cookbooks

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Are you looking to explore the vibrant flavours of Indian cuisine? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the ten most gifted Indian cookbooks for you. These cookbooks cater to every taste and cooking style, offering various recipes from traditional dishes to modern adaptations. Whether you’re a health-conscious individual, a time-crunched cook, or a vegan food lover, these cookbooks have got you covered. Get ready to embark on an exciting culinary journey through the rich cultural heritage of India.

Masala Lab: The Science of Indian Cookin

Suppose you’re looking for a highly regarded and knowledgeable resource to enhance your kitchen skills and learn about the science of Indian cooking. In that case, Masala Lab is one of the most gifted Indian cookbooks you should consider. This unique cookbook bridges the gap between traditional Indian cuisine and modern culinary techniques, empowering readers to understand the science behind recipes and demystifying complex culinary processes.

Masala Lab goes beyond providing recipes; it focuses on teaching the science behind Indian cooking in an accessible language that makes scientific explanations enjoyable and easy to grasp. The chapters are methodically structured, breaking down the complexities of Indian cuisine into easily digestible segments.

Each chapter includes “food lab exercises”, encouraging readers to apply their new knowledge. Masala Lab celebrates the flavours of Indian cuisine while providing a robust scientific foundation, making it more than just a cookbook but also a fascinating culinary journey that adds depth to the art of Indian cooking.

Product Specs:

• Title: Masala Lab: The Science of Indian Cooking
• Author: Krish Ashok
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 280 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0143451375
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0143451372

Pros:

• Provides in-depth knowledge about the science behind Indian cooking
• Uses accessible language for easy understanding
• Methodically structured with food lab exercises

Cons:

• Some readers wish for more extensive and more apparent print in the book
• More suitable for beginners rather than experienced chefs
• May not include as many advanced or intricate recipes as some may desire

30 Meal Plans from Archana’s Kitchen: Easy Vegetarian Indian Recipes for Good Health

You’ll find a variety of easy-to-follow, healthy vegetarian meal plans curated by Archana Doshi in this book. These meal plans are designed to help you achieve good health while enjoying delicious Indian cuisine. Each program combines dishes such as salads, raitas, dal, and Jowar Rotis, all made with readily available ingredients. The recipes prioritize using locally sourced seasonal vegetables, ensuring freshness and nutritional value. Portion control is emphasized through the Katori measurement technique.

This book offers a range of healthier options beyond simple steamed or baked veggies. The recipes are flavorful and cater to the familiar tastes that Indian palates are accustomed to. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier or explore new vegetarian dishes, this book provides a variety of options for you to choose from.

Product Specs:

• Title: 30 Meal Plans from Archana’s Kitchen : Easy Vegetarian Indian Recipes for Good Health
  
• Author: Archana Doshi
  
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 188 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9394407685
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-9394407688

Pros:

• Easy-to-follow recipes
• Emphasizes portion control
• Incorporates seasonal vegetables
• Offers flavorful and diverse options

Cons:

• Limited to vegetarian recipes only

The Indian Vegetarian Cookbook

When exploring vegetarian Indian recipes, you can find various flavorful options in The Indian Vegetarian Cookbook. This cookbook offers a wide range of recipes that are simple to make and filled with delicious flavours. The photography in the book is not only appealing but also provides excellent background information on each dish. While some pictures may not match the corresponding recipes, the book is beautifully produced with lovely views.

However, some issues have been reported by readers who have tried the recipes. Some have found that certain doughs and batters did not turn out as expected due to incorrect instructions. Additionally, exotic vegetables required for some recipes can be hard to find. They may need to be more rewarding for the effort put into sourcing them.

Despite these concerns, many readers appreciate the author’s expertise in spicing and find their dishes tasty when following the instructions. Overall, The Indian Vegetarian Cookbook offers diverse vegetarian Indian recipes for those exploring this cuisine.

Product Specs:

• Title: The Indian Vegetarian Cookbook
  
• Author: Pushpesh Pant
  
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 272 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0714876410
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0714876412

Pros:

• Variety of flavorful options
• Great background information
• Simple to make

Cons:

• Some pictures don’t match the recipes
• Issues with doughs, batters, and incorrect instructions
• Exotic vegetables can be hard to find and not rewarding

India: Cookbook

The Indian Vegetarian Cookbook offers diverse, flavorful options and provides excellent background information on each dish. This cookbook is a comprehensive tome on Indian cooking, featuring recipes from different states of India and authentic names of dishes. The compilation is good, with easily narrated recipes that are presented. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The paper quality is poor, and the price is high for what you get.

Additionally, this cookbook focuses mainly on recipes from Punjab, Kashmir, Delhi, Awadh, Bengal, and Rajasthan while neglecting many regional cuisines and states such as Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, and North East tribes. The book also needs to be more accurate regarding the names of dishes in local languages and the origins of specific recipes. Despite these flaws, The Indian Vegetarian Cookbook can be a valuable addition to your collection if you’re a cooking enthusiast looking for authentic Indian recipes.

Product Specs:

• Title: India: Cookbook
  
• Author: Pushpesh Pant
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 960 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0714859028
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0714859026

Pros:

• Diverse selection of flavorful options
• Provides excellent background information on each dish
• Easily narrated recipes with simplicity

Cons:

• Poor paper quality
• High price
• Missing regional recipes from various states in India

A Taste of Well-Being: Sadhguru’s Insights for Your Gastronomics

Sadhguru’s book, A Taste of Well-Being, offers valuable insights and delicious recipes for a holistic approach to gastronomics. This book is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical guidance on nourishing your body and mind through food. With simple yet flavorful dishes, it provides a gateway to understanding the profound connection between our diet and overall well-being.

The book is filled with a wide variety of dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences. From traditional Indian recipes to innovative fusion creations, there is something for everyone. Each recipe is accompanied by Sadhguru’s insightful commentary, making it not just a cookbook but also a guide to mindful eating.

One of the standout features of A Taste of Well-Being is its emphasis on using wholesome ingredients that promote health and vitality. The recipes are designed to nourish while indulging your taste buds, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on flavour or nutrition.

Product Specs:

• Title: A Taste of Well-Being: Sadhguru’s Insights for Your Gastronomics
  
• Author: Isha Foundation
  
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 218 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9351363783
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-9351363781

Pros:

• Valuable insights on holistic gastronomic
• Delicious recipes catering to different tastes
• Emphasis on wholesome ingredients for health

Cons:

• Incomplete materials received (as per one negative review)

Pangat, a Feast

You’ll love experiencing the feast of Pangat. This delightful culinary tradition brings people together to share a meal in a joyful and communal atmosphere. Pangat is a Marathi word that translates to “sitting together for food”. It is more than just a meal; it is an experience that celebrates the rich and diverse flavours of Maharashtrian cuisine.

The Pangat feast typically consists of vegetarian dishes on banana leaves or traditional brass plates called thalis. The menu often includes staples like varan bhaat (dal rice), puran poli (sweet stuffed bread), batata bhaji (potato curry), Kanda bhaji (onion fritters), and sol kadhi (a refreshing drink made with kokum). Each dish is carefully prepared using traditional cooking methods and authentic ingredients, resulting in comforting and delicious flavours.

One of the critical aspects of Pangat is its communal nature. It brings people from different walks of life together, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. Sitting down together to enjoy a meal creates a bond among individuals, transcending barriers and creating lasting memories.

Pangat feasts can be experienced on various occasions, such as weddings, festivals, or community gatherings. They offer an opportunity to savour delectable Maharashtrian cuisine and immerse oneself in Maharashtra’s vibrant culture and traditions.

Product Specs:

• Title: Pangat, a Feast
• Author: Saee Koranne-Khandekar
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9388322916
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-9388322911

Pros:

• Celebrates the rich flavours of Maharashtrian cuisine
• Fosters a sense of belonging and unity
• Creates lasting memories

Cons:

• Limited availability outside Maharashtra

The Complete OPOS Cookbook: One-Pot Meal Plans Ready in 10 Minutes

Suppose you’re looking for quick and easy meal plans. In that case, the Complete OPOS Cookbook is an excellent resource with one-pot recipes in 10 minutes. This cookbook introduces you to the world of OPOS, a set of scientific cooking techniques that revolutionize your cooking. With around 250 pages divided into six sections, this book covers everything from basic know-how to detailed collections of recipes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, there’s something for everyone in this cookbook. The benefits of OPOS cooking are numerous – only one pot to wash, less mess, fast cooking, maximized nutrition, economical and fuel-saving. Additionally, the intense flavours created through pressure baking will satisfy your taste buds.

Product Specs:

• Title: The Complete OPOS Cookbook: One-Pot Meal Plans Ready in 10 Minutes
  
• Author: B Ramakrishnan
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 226 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9353579872
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-9353579876

Pros:

• One-pot recipes ready in 10 minutes
• Covers basic know-how and detailed collections of recipes
• Benefits include less mess, fast cooking, maximized nutrition

Cons:

• May require specific equipment for pressure baking

Tiffin: 500 Authentic Recipes Celebrating India’s Regional Cuisine

Are you seeking a comprehensive collection of authentic recipes celebrating India’s regional cuisine? Tiffin is the book you need, with 500 delicious dishes that showcase the diverse flavours and culinary specialities of different regions in India. This delightful book contains information and will take you on a flavorful journey through India’s rich food culture.

Tiffin not only provides a wide range of recipes but also offers insights into the history and traditions behind each dish. From spicy curries to aromatic biryanis, this book has something for everyone. The stylish and usable design allows for easy navigation, making it a perfect companion in your kitchen.

With Tiffin, you can explore the vibrant flavours of India from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, this book will inspire you to create authentic Indian dishes that impress your friends and family.

Product Specs:

• Title: Tiffin: 500 Authentic Recipes Celebrating India’s Regional Cuisine
• Author: Sonal Ved
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 496 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9788193704967
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-8193704967

Pros:

• Comprehensive collection of authentic Indian recipes
• Showcases diverse flavours and culinary specialities from different regions
• Provides historical and cultural context for each dish
• Stylish and usable design makes it easy to navigate

Cons:

• Light and faded print may be difficult to read for some people
• Pictures could be brighter for better visual appeal

Recipes For Life: Well-Known Personalities Reveal Stories, Memories and Age-old Family Recipes

The book Recipes For Life shares heartwarming stories, cherished memories, and treasured family recipes from well-known personalities. It is a collection of personal anecdotes and experiences that explore the deep connection between food and identity. Through this book, you will journey into the diverse world of Indian cuisine, as it showcases a variety of regional dishes and highlights the rich cultural tapestry of India. The stories shared in Recipes For Life evoke nostalgia and create a sense of belonging as they remind us of our own childhood food experiences. You can recreate these beloved dishes in your kitchen with vegetarian and non-vegetarian recipes. This heartfelt book is recommended for those who appreciate the love and care that goes into homemade food, making it an ideal gift for yourself or someone you cherish.

Product Specs:

• Title: Recipes For Life: Well-Known Personalities Reveal Stories, Memories and Age-old Family Recipes
  
• Author: Sudha Menon
  
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 256 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0143452576
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0143452577

Pros:

• Heartwarming stories that evoke nostalgia
• Variety of regional Indian dishes showcased
• Collection of treasured family recipes

Cons:

• Limited number of pages may leave readers wanting more content

Vikas Khanna: Everyone can Cook

You’ll find Vikas Khanna’s book, Everyone Can Cook, a helpful resource for expanding your culinary skills. This book, written by an esteemed chef, offers a wide range of recipes designed to help you become more confident in the kitchen. With clear and concise explanations, you’ll find it easy to follow along and create delicious dishes. The book focuses on keeping flavours and aromas lively, ensuring that each recipe is packed with taste.

Product specs:

• Title: Everyone Can Cook
• Author: Vikas Khanna
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 128 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9789382607328
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-9382607328

Pros:

• Clear and concise recipe explanations
• Wide range of recipes to choose from
• Focus on flavour and aroma

Cons:

• Lack of Indian recipes
• Some ingredients may be difficult to source

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re looking for the perfect gift for a food enthusiast or someone interested in Indian cuisine, these ten most gifted Indian cookbooks offer diverse recipes and cooking styles to cater to different preferences. Whether you’re a vegetarian, health-conscious individual, or simply looking to explore the rich flavours of Indian cooking, there is a cookbook that suits your needs. These cookbooks provide many options, from traditional regional dishes to quick and easy one-pot meals. So go ahead and surprise someone with the gift of delicious Indian cuisine!