Cookbooks That Inspire
Check out what’s on our kitchen bookshelves at the moment, and find out what others are saying about these new and classic titles.
Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life
by Barbara Kingsolver
If you’re interested in the concept of consuming only locally produced foods, check out how one family did it for a year and discovered what a significant difference it can make not only nutritionally, but for the environment, as well. It’s packed with facts and information about what goes into the process of food production, and offers a personal perspective on what it means to support local growers and producers. Who knows, maybe it’ll influence your New Year’s resolution.
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Judgment of Paris: California vs. France
by George M. Taber
This is a fascinating story that any wine lover will appreciate (and it makes a great gift, too). A wine shop in Paris set up a tasting in 1976, presumably to showcase French superiority over new California vintages. Taber, who worked for Time Magazine, was the only journalist to cover the event. The rest is history: the judges chose the American reds and whites in blind taste tests. This is a truly enlightening book about the history, business and enjoyment of wine — so pour a glass and get started!
view moreKitchen Confidential
by Anthony Bourdain
Widely known for his own Food Network and Travel Channel series, Anthony Bourdain first brought his straightforward, no-nonsense attitude to the world with this 2000 memoir. If you’ve ever heard him narrate his programs on TV or offer his commentary on all the exotic destinations he’s visited, you’ll have an idea of what you’re in for with Kitchen Confidential. Bourdain doesn’t hold back, offering up his opinions on everything from the restaurant industry to his own customers. Check out the audiobook version, too, because this is one of those stories that’s best heard in Bourdain’s own voice.
view moreThe French Laundry Cookbook
by Thomas Keller
Thomas Keller’s acclaimed restaurant serves as the backdrop for this award-winning cookbook. Whether you’re a fan of Keller or just looking to add to your collection, this volume includes over 100 recipes complete with stunning photography in the spirit of The French Laundry kitchen itself. Challenge yourself with some of Keller’s more complex signature dishes, or use a simpler recipe for an impromptu gathering with friends over wine one night.
view moreThe Trail of Crumbs: Hunger, Love and the Search for Home
by Kim Sunée
Follow the amazing life journey of Kim, from her abandonment in South Korea at age 3 to her adoption by a New Orleans couple and eventual relocation to France as a young adult. Through it all, Kim turns to food as a way of connecting with herself and her surroundings. If you love to read about food and travel, this touching memoir combines both in a really original and compelling way.
view moreUnited States of Arugula: How We Became a Gourmet Nation
by David Kamp
David Kamp’s telling of America’s 20th-century culinary revolution is a can’t-miss read. After World War II, we started slowly moving away from a Wonder Bread mentality and began to learn about and embrace fresh, well-prepared foods — and it’s thanks to some of the culinary giants profiled in this book. You’ll definitely enjoy this history of American gourmet. It’s funny, it’s quick and it’s a guaranteed page-turner.
view moreOn the Line: The Stations, The Heat, The Cooks, The Chaos And The Triumphs
by Eric Ripert
Chef Eric Ripert’s latest book is like walking right into the kitchen at Le Bernardin during dinner service, featuring stories and wisdom from line cooks, waiters and everybody in between. If you’ve ever wanted the inside story of how a world-class restaurant operates, this is the perfect read for your next vacation or maybe a quiet evening when you’re planning your next get-together. You’ll even get some special recipes and secrets from Chef Ripert along the way, so keep a pen and paper handy!
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