fbpx
Rochester Local

Cookbooks That Feed My Curiosity

cookbookTo say my husband is not ‘culinarily-inclined’ is a bit of an understatement. He needs directions to follow the directions (I still love you, Ted). Thus, I am solely responsible for breakfast, lunch and supper… everyday. But preparing new and interesting meals day-in and day-out is no small feat. After all, no one likes eating (or making) the same dishes over and over again! So, when I run out of fun meal ideas, I start looking for a new cookbook. Some of my favorite cookbooks not only give me new ideas for supper, but also pique my interest and make cooking fun again. Here are the cookbooks that feed my curiosity… Enjoy!

  1. Magnolia Table: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering by Joanna Gaines – I’ve had this cookbook for a while. I love the paragraphs at the beginning of each chapter. They are inviting and resonate with my semi-homemade cooking methods. Make sure you try the chocolate chip cookies! They are a family favorite. Side note – the 2nd edition is JUST as good! Magnolia Table, Volume 2: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering.
  2. The Complete America’s Test Kitchen TV Show Cookbook –  America’s Test Kitchen (ATK) is usually my go-to for best versions of lots of dishes. But be prepared for complicated recipes with lots of steps. Use this one when you have extra time to experiment.
  3. The Complete Cook’s Country TV Show Cookbook – This cookbook may seem similar to #2 on the list because it is from the same creators as ATK – BUT the recipes in this cookbook are geared more towards home-cooking comfort foods. It is sooo good!
  4. The King Arthur Baking Company’s All-Purpose Flour Baker’s Companion – If you like to bake at all, this cookbook has everything you could ever possibly want – including an awesome section on breakfast. Breakfast for dinner, anyone?! Also see, King Arthur Flour Whole Grain Baking.
  5. Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child – After watching Julie & Julia, I couldn’t help but get a copy of this iconic cookbook to do some experimenting for myself. Make sure to stock up on butter… but have fun with French cuisine!
  6. The Pioneer Woman Cooks – Come and Get It!: Simple, Scrumptious Recipes for Crazy Busy Lives by Ree Drummond – I like this Pioneer Woman Cooks Cookbook a lot.  Her down-to-earth writing makes you feel like you are exchanging recipes with a friend. And all of her recipes are dishes we would eat any night of the week!
  7. Jerusalem: A Cookbook by Yotam Ottolenghi and Sami Tamimi – This cookbook is so special; full of flavor and cultural significance. Two chefs who grew up on opposite sides of Jerusalem (and in different religions) find common ground: food.
  8. An Unapologetic Cookbook by Joshua Weissman – This guy reminds me of my brother for some reason… only he’s a chef. With an unabashedly awesome section on basic cooking techniques, such as pickled anything, homemade cheeses, and sauces, this cookbook is sure to expand your culinary repertoire.
  9. Cook’s Illustrated Revolutionary Recipes: Ground Breaking Techniques. Compelling Voices. One-of-A-Kind Recipes. – Based off the Cook’s Illustrated cooking magazines, this book is full of concise and meaningful explanations of recipes and techniques.

I’d love to hear which cookbooks you like using!

Related posts

15 Vegetarian Dining Options in Rochester MN

Rochester Local

A Charcuterie Board for the Holidays (or a plain old Tuesday) With My Favorite Things

Becky Montpetit

Fall Comfort Food Favorites

Rochester Local