Best Cookbooks to Gift: Top 10 Picks to Delight Foodies

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Selecting the perfect gift for the foodies in your life can be challenging. However, a thoughtfully chosen cookbook can tick all the right boxes. Whether your giftee is a home cook exploring new cuisines, a budding chef seeking creative inspiration, or a food lover appreciating the art of cooking, a cookbook is a treasure that keeps giving.

This blog picks the best Indian cookbooks that offer a rich tapestry of regional flavours, easy-to-follow recipes, stunning food photography, and captivating family stories to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, let’s deep-dive into the world of Indian culinary magic through the gift of these fantastic picks of the best cookbooks.

What Are The Best Cookbooks to Gift?

India, with its extensive cultural diversity, offers a kaleidoscope of flavours. Indian cooking involves varied techniques, ingredients, and secret family recipes passed down through generations. From novice to seasoned cooks, there are cookbooks rich in this culinary heritage that cater to all. Here are some standout choices that will leave your favourite foodies spoiled for choice as you present them with these books.

1. The Great Indian Thali, Nandita Iyer (Roli Books)

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“The Great Indian Thali” by Nandita Iyer is a delightful exploration into the heart of Indian cuisine – the Thali. As the name suggests, this bestselling author’s cookbook offers food lovers a journey across Indian culinary landscapes, one thali at a time. Nandita Iyer, a celebrated nutrition expert and author, curates a selection of regional thalis, each showcasing its unique palette of flavours and culinary traditions.

Why gift this book:

• The book offers over 100 recipes that celebrate authentic Indian food’s sensory experience.
• Clear instructions make heavy use of everyday ingredients, allowing everyone to explore the intricacies of Indian thali making.
• Fascinating food facts and health trivia accompanying each recipe make it an engaging read.
• Stunning food photography hints at the delicious preparations waiting to be tried at home.

2. Why Cook, Archana Pidathala

The successor to the much-loved “Five Morsels of Love”, Archana Pidathala’s “Why Cook” weaves tales of inspiring women, their connection to food, and their life journeys, all peppered with deeply personal recipes. This cookbook offers more profound insights and stories, breathing life into the art of cooking.

Why gift this book:

• This book from Pidathala presents a perfect blend of human experiences, shared emotions, and global cuisine, making its way to the hearts of readers through their stomachs.
• It’s written in a relatable style that engages both novice and experienced cooks.
• Includes useful cooking tips and techniques that simplify meal prep.
• Emphasises wholesome ingredients for nutritious, balanced meals.

3. A Cookbook For Special Days, Special People, Shivesh Bhatia (Harper Children’s)

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Shivesh Bhatia, an acclaimed baker and author, introduces “A Cookbook for Special Days, Special People“. This cookbook is more than just a collection of simple recipes; it depicts celebrations, special occasions, and the joy of cooking. It reflects Bhatia’s baking passion and magnificent knack for making delightful desserts.

What makes this book unique:

• The cookbook features 21 special days and 42 easy-to-attempt recipe ideas, ideal for young aspiring chefs.
• With its charmingly illustrated design, this book is a compelling guide for kids who love experimenting with flavours.
• From nutty gujiya ice cream to homemade Nutella brownies, Bhatia offers recipes for all kinds of taste buds.
• Even for furry friends, there’s something special in store with homemade dog biscuit recipes.

4. The Flavour Equation: The Science of Great Cooking Explained

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“The Flavour Equation: The Science of Great Cooking Explained” is a fantastic example of how scientific understanding can elevate your cooking skills. This cookbook dives into the science behind flavour, investigating how to achieve the perfect balance of bitter, salty, sweet, sour, astringent, and umami.

Why gift this book:

• Explores the science behind flavours, helping readers understand how taste works.
• This unique approach to cooking will engage your logical side while the mouth-watering recipes captivate your creative side.
• It breaks down elements like aroma, texture, and appearance to enhance your cooking skills.
• Written in a clear, engaging style that makes complex science easy to understand.

5. Indian-ish: Recipes and Antics from a Modern American Family

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Embrace the fusion of classic Indian recipes with familiar Western fare with “Indian-ish: Recipes and Antics from a Modern American Family“. Authored by Priya Krishna, this cookbook features delightful dishes that experiment with traditional and contemporary flavours.

Why gift this book:

• This fun cookbook comes packed with delectable dishes such as Saag Feta and Roti Pizza, presenting a fresh take on Indian cuisine.
• The book uses simple, everyday ingredients that are readily available in most pantries.
• Its pages come to life with excellent illustrations by artist Maria Qamar, adding a playful touch to the cooking experience.
• Even though it’s peppered with authentic Indian flavours, the book is accessible to readers from various culinary backgrounds, making it an ideal gift for home cooks everywhere.

6. Quick-Fix Indian by Ruta Kahate

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Perfect for people with busy schedules, Ruta Kahate’s “Quick-Fix Indian” offers brilliant Indian recipes that can be prepared in thirty minutes or less. The book features an exotic selection of quick recipes that infuse traditional Indian flavours with new ingredients, making the cuisine exciting and easy to make.

Why gift this book:

• It provides recipes that can be made in 30 minutes or less, which is ideal for busy schedules.
• This combination of classic ingredients and modern techniques lends a unique twist to Indian cooking, which will undoubtedly charm your tastebuds.
• Introduces authentic Indian flavours in simple, approachable ways.
• Designed for both beginners and experienced cooks looking to streamline their cooking.

7. Masala Lab: The Science of Indian Cooking

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Delve into “Masala Lab: The Science of Indian Cooking,” a debut cookbook exploring the intricate flavours and techniques of Indian cuisine. Authored by Krish Ashok, this book combines the art of home cooking with a scientific approach, similar to a food lab, perfect for both seasoned chefs and aspiring home cooks.

Why gift this book:

• Unravel the secrets behind traditional Indian dishes and experiment with innovative vegan recipes that are sure to impress any food enthusiast.
• “Masala Lab” is not just a cookbook; it’s a culinary journey blending tradition with modernity in a delightful read.
• It explains the chemistry and physics behind Indian cooking techniques.
• Clarifies common misconceptions and demystifies traditional cooking methods.

8. The Indian Vegetarian Cookbook

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“The Indian Vegetarian Cookbook” by Pushpesh Pant offers a world of flavourful options for those looking to explore vegetarian Indian cuisine. This cookbook captures the essence of varied regional cuisines, providing a wide range of easy-to-make dishes infused with delicious flavours.

Why gift this book:

• Offers an array of authentic, flavorful Indian vegetarian recipes from different regions.
• As the name suggests, it inspires a plant-based diet with delicious, satisfying options.
• The cookbook not only offers a collection of flavorful recipes but also provides excellent background information for each dish, adding to readers’ culinary knowledge.
• Makes traditional Indian cooking accessible to all skill levels.

9. Fresh India: 130 Quick, Easy and Delicious Recipes for Every Day

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“Fresh India: 130 Quick, Easy and Delicious Recipes for Every Day” offers an explosion of flavours and quick recipes that cater to the modern-day busy lifestyle. The cookbook, by Meera Sodha, showcases a variety of Indian recipes that have been simplified yet retain their authentic tastes.

Why gift this book:

• The book includes more than 130 unique recipes from salads, raitas, dal, and rotis, all made with easily accessible ingredients.
• It incorporates seasonal vegetables, enhancing each dish’s freshness and nutritional value.
• The recipes cater to the familiar tastes that Indian palates are accustomed to, making it a great gift for those interested in Indian cuisine.
• A particular emphasis on portion control using the Katori measurement technique can make it a perfect companion for health enthusiasts, letting them savour delectable dishes without worrying about weight gain.

10. How to Cook Indian by Sanjeev Kapoor

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“How to Cook Indian: More Than 500 Classic Recipes for the Modern Kitchen” by Sanjeev Kapoor is a comprehensive guide to classic Indian cooking. Kapoor breathes life into the art of Indian cookery, transforming the traditional flavours of Indian cuisine into modern, easy-to-follow recipes.

Why gift this book:

• With a range of hearty and warming dishes perfect for all seasons, this cookbook is an excellent gift for those who want to recreate the magic of Indian flavours in their modern kitchens with readily available ingredients.
• The recipes are tailored for contemporary home cooking, making traditional Indian flavours accessible.
• Clear instructions make it easy for beginners and experts alike to prepare authentic dishes.
• Teaches the use of Indian spices and ingredients, enhancing both knowledge and skill.

Conclusion

In an ever-evolving culinary world, Indian cookbooks play a pivotal role in preserving our rich culinary heritage while simultaneously introducing us to modern interpretations of traditional dishes. The variety and depth of Indian cuisine, with its diverse regional flavours and aromatic spices, offer a veritable feast for food enthusiasts worldwide.

The cookbooks listed in this blog perfectly capture the essence of Indian cooking: the interplay of flavours, the vibrant colours, and the sensory delight of each dish. Infused with love, passion, and the joy of cooking, these cookbooks make fabulous gifts, inviting readers on an exciting gastronomical journey through the heart of India!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cookbooks still relevant in the era of online recipes?

Despite the prevalence of online recipes, cookbooks hold a charm of their own. They offer a curated collection of tried and tested recipes, personal anecdotes, cooking tips, and beautiful photographs. Cookbooks stand as tangible reminders of culinary journeys, making them timeless treasures.

What cuisine would make the best cookbook gift for a foodie?

The best cookbook gift for a foodie would be one that explores a cuisine they are passionate about or curious to learn. Indian cookbooks, for instance, can take foodies on an intriguing culinary journey, introducing them to diverse regional flavours, traditional techniques, and modern interpretations.

How can I ensure that the cookbook I choose isn’t too complicated for the recipient?

Choosing a cookbook that matches the recipient’s cooking expertise can ensure its usability. Cookbooks that provide step-by-step instructions, everyday ingredients, and practical cooking tips tend to be beginner-friendly. Alternatively, a cookbook that challenges their culinary skills might be ideal for an experienced cook.

Can I pair a cookbook with another simple food-related gift?

Absolutely! A cookbook can be paired with a set of spices, a gourmet food hamper, cooking utensils, a kitchen gadget, or even gourmet tea or coffee. The combo can make a fantastic gift for any food lover, adding a personal touch to your gift-giving.

How do I personalise a cookbook gift?

You should consider writing a heartfelt inscription on the inside cover to personalise a cookbook gift. You could also pair it with a kitchen utensil that complements the recipes in the book or include a bookmark featuring a quote about food and cooking. This can make the gift even more thoughtful.