A Year in Cookbooks: My Top Picks and Tried Recipes
Hello everyone,
I can’t be the only one feeling like this year has flown by in the blink of an eye. It’s already December, and as I reflect on the past months, I thought it would be a great time to share something special: my favorite cookbooks of the year.
Given that my collection has grown well past 500 cookbooks (I stopped counting long ago – for sanity’s sake!), I’ve been fortunate to explore an amazing range of books this year. Some were gifted by generous publishers or authors, and others I bought simply because I couldn’t resist the subject matter. If you’re looking for cooking inspiration, I hope you find something in this list to add to your own shelves.
1. Bethlehem by Fadi Kattan
Fadi Kattan, the talented chef behind Akub in London and Kassa in Bethlehem, celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Bethlehem in this beautiful book. It’s not just about recipes – it’s about the artisans and food makers who keep Palestinian cuisine alive, all woven together with stunning storytelling.
Recipes I’ve tried:
• Mafghoussa
• Eggs in Samneh & Sumac
• Arayes Shrak
2. The Feel Good Foodie
Let’s be honest – after a long day at work, there are plenty of evenings where I just don’t feel like cooking. That’s where this book truly shines. With simple, fuss-free recipes and short instructions, it delivers Mediterranean comfort food with pantry-friendly ingredients.
Family favorites include:
• Tahini Kafta
• Tahini & Smashed Avocado Chicken Sandwich
• Raspberry Rose Fro-Yo
3. Sebze by Özlem Warren
Özlem’s second book is a heartfelt journey through Turkish cuisine, this time focused on vibrant vegetarian recipes. If you love aubergines, tomatoes, and peppers, this book will quickly become a kitchen staple. The dishes are comforting, honest, and full of flavor.
Standouts I’ve loved:
• Baked Vegetables with Chickpeas
• Stuffed Peppers with Aromatic Rice
• Bulgur Pilaf with Aubergines, Peppers, and Tomatoes
4. Good Egg by Ed Smith
Eggs are my go-to ingredient when time is short, so Ed Smith’s book has been a revelation. Whether boiled, scrambled, fried, or beyond, there are 100 creative ways to celebrate the humble egg.
Favorites so far:
• Fried Egg with a Crisp Cheese Crisp
• Scrambled Eggs with Avocado and Chilli Crisp
• Tomato Egg Stir-Fry
5. Taboon by Hisham Assaad
This book immediately took me back to my childhood – when my father would bring home treats from our neighborhood Lebanese bakery. Taboon is a beautiful tribute to Lebanese bakeries, with recipes and stories that transport you to the heart of Lebanon.
Recipes to try:
• Palestinian Black Cake
• Cheese Filo Pie
• Osmaliye Mess
6. Souk to Table by Amina Al-Sayigh
If you’re a meat lover or often cooking for a crowd, this Middle Eastern cookbook is for you. The recipes span countries like Yemen, Iraq, and Libya, with straightforward instructions that are perfect for hosting gatherings or planning Ramadan meals.
Top picks:
• Tahini Cabbage Slaw
• One-Pot Harissa Chicken & Rice
• Muhammara Pasta
7. Make More with Less by Kitty Coles
This is a genius cookbook for anyone looking to cook great meals using pantry staples and leftovers. Divided into chapters by key ingredients (think “Bread,” “Jars and Tins,” or “Potatoes and Onions”), it’s practical, clever, and inspiring for those who love resourceful cooking.
Must-try recipes:
• Broccoli and Parmesan Beans
• Charred Tomato Broth
• Tonnato Salad
8. One Pot, One Portion by Eleanor Wilkinson
As someone who enjoys a quiet meal alone from time to time, this book has been a lovely companion. It celebrates the art of cooking for one with easy, satisfying recipes.
Personal favorites include:
• Fish Finger Sandwich with Crispy Capers
• Herby Chicken Rice Salad
• Banoffee Pie Milkshake
9. Crumbs by Ben Mims
For cookie lovers, this book is pure gold. Ben Mims documented 300 cookie recipes from over 100 countries, turning this into a cultural (and delicious) experience. There’s so much to explore, and I can’t wait to try more.
10. A Chocolate Lover by Michelle Song
I’ve followed Michelle’s work on her blog, Studio Baked, for a while, and her debut cookbook is every bit as tempting as I expected. A collection of 60 chocolate-based recipes – dark, milk, or white – this is a must for chocolate enthusiasts.
Favorites so far:
• Miso Peanut Butter Blondies
• Triple Chocolate Cookies
• Lemon cream tart
Sift by Nicola lamb
An essential baking book, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. It takes you through everything – from understanding the ingredients that make each bake shine to the techniques that turn good baking into great baking. It’s both informative and approachable, offering a true masterclass on the why and how of baking.
Recipes I’ve tried and loved:
• Apricot and Rosemary Polenta Cake
• Secret Chocolate Cake
• Festive Buns
I hope you find some gems in this list, whether you’re looking for inspiration to cook more, explore new cuisines, or simply dive into a comforting dish. If you’ve tried any of these books – or have recommendations of your own – I’d love to hear about them!
Here is a cookie recipe for you: an old one, but worth trying.
https://www.saveur.com/recipes/date-pecan-cookies/