I absolutely love cook books but I’m pretty selective about which ones I buy because let’s be honest, there’s a hell of a lot of them out there these days. So if you’re looking to gift something this festive season or just want a heads up on some cracking reads and must have shelf fillers then you have to check out my pics. I collect books across the cooking spectrum and the 8 I’ve listed below have been the standouts for me in the last 12 months. I’ve loved every single one of them because they all great reads, packed with amazing photography, recipes and in my opinion make great gifts for lovers of food and cooking.
1. Stirring Slowly by Georgina Hayden – Georgina has worked alongside Jamie Oliver for many years and her first book is an absolute cracker. It’ one of those books you’ll be going back to time and time again.
Buy here
2. Franklin Barbeque, by Aaron Franklin – With the rise of low n slow BBQ if you’re going to learn how to make it then learn from the master himself, Aaron Franklin. He’s the owner of arguably the best BBQ joint in all of Texas if not the world. Enough said.
Buy here
3. Fried Chicken and Friends by Gregory Llewyllyn – Yes that’s right it’s a book about fried chicken. Need I say more? Some great insights and techniques on how to achieve some wickedly delicious chicken plus all the trimmings to go with it.
Buy here
4. Coming Unstuck by Sarah Tuck – If you don’t follow Sarah’s blog then you are missing out. She really knows food, her recipes are next level and her photos will have you dribbling for more. The book is a cracker. Open, honest and one you need in your collection.
Buy here
5. Nourished by Julia & Libby Matthews – Nourished is Julia and Libby’s second book and it’s gorgeous. Seriously good wholefood recipes from two lovely humans. The book is a bible of delicious goodness. My favourites are the chocolate pancakes and their veggie burger looks and tastes amazing.
Buy here
6. Knife by Tim Hayward – This book will cater to anyone with a fetish for knives. You’ll learn so much about the different types of knives, how they’re made, what makes a good knife and why it’s so so important to have a good sharp knife in your kitchen. Be warned, this book will make you want to go out and buy new knives.
Buy here
7. Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat – This book is an absolute revelation. It deals with the four principles of salt, fat, acid and heat in cooking. Beautifully written and if you’re going to by one book this year, make it this one. The knowledge you will gain from reading this book will serve you for the rest of your cooking days.
Buy here
8. 5 Ingredients by Jamie Oliver –Jamie has nailed it again, mainly because we’re all timed starved and he’s made life simple yet delicious with meals you only need 5 ingredients for. The genius of the man knows no boundaries.
Buy here
