In the digital age, where recipes are just a click away, cookbooks remain a treasured resource for home chefs. A great cookbook does more than provide step-by-step instructions, it teaches techniques, inspires creativity, and connects us to cultures, traditions, and stories. In 2025, modern classics are combining timeless culinary wisdom with fresh, inclusive perspectives and vibrant design. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, impressive cookbooks deserve a spot on your kitchen shelf.
1. “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat” by Samin Nosrat
A modern essential, this book breaks down the four core principles of great cooking. With charming illustrations and engaging writing, Samin Nosrat empowers readers to move beyond recipes and cook intuitively. It’s a foundational guide that turns technique into artistry.
2. “Ottolenghi Test Kitchen: Extra Good Things” by Noor Murad & Yotam Ottolenghi
This vibrant follow-up from Ottolenghi’s famed test kitchen focuses on making everyday meals exciting. With a blend of Middle Eastern flavors and practical tips for transforming leftovers, this book helps home cooks infuse bold flavors into manageable weeknight meals.
3. “The Korean Vegan Cookbook” by Joanne Lee Molinaro
Award-winning and deeply personal, this cookbook blends plant-based recipes with heartfelt storytelling. It’s perfect for those looking to explore Korean flavors through a healthy lens, with everything from kimchi to spicy rice cakes—vegan-style.
4. “The Food Lab” by J. Kenji López-Alt
Science meets flavor in this hefty tome that dives deep into the why behind cooking. With foolproof methods for everything from pan-seared steak to the crispiest roasted potatoes, it’s a go-to for technical-minded cooks who want consistently stellar results.
5. “Dessert Person” by Claire Saffitz
For the sweet-toothed baker, Claire Saffitz delivers modern takes on classic desserts. With a tone that’s encouraging and approachable, she breaks down intimidating pastries and cakes into achievable steps. Bonus: her troubleshooting tips are gold for every level of baker.
6. “Cook This Book” by Molly Baz
Molly Baz’s debut cookbook is loud, colorful, and packed with personality—just like her food. This book is perfect for digital-age cooks who want stylish, unfussy meals and QR code-linked video tutorials. Think perfectly cooked pasta, inventive salads, and flavor-packed sauces.
7. “Black Food” edited by Bryant Terry
More than a cookbook, Black Food is a cultural anthology that celebrates the diversity of the African diaspora through recipes, essays, and artwork. It’s as enriching to read as it is to cook from, with dishes that honor history, heritage, and innovation.
8. “Mi Cocina” by Rick Martínez
A love letter to Mexican cuisine, Mi Cocina takes readers on a regional journey through the country’s diverse culinary landscape. With stunning photography and deeply flavorful recipes, it captures the soul of home cooking with authenticity and pride.
9. “East” by Meera Sodha
A brilliant introduction to vegetarian Asian cuisine, East is packed with bold, comforting dishes inspired by China, Thailand, Japan, and India. It’s ideal for cooks who want to bring global flavors to their table without relying on meat.
10. “Your Home, Your Kitchen” by Nik Sharma (2025 Edition)
This newly released gem offers a fresh take on global fusion cooking for the modern home. Sharma combines his signature scientific insights with accessible recipes and photography that’s as beautiful as the food. It’s poised to become a 2025 staple.
Build Your Culinary Library
Owning a few well-chosen cookbooks can transform your approach to the kitchen. These modern classics go beyond recipes—they teach, inspire, and expand your understanding of food and culture. Whether you’re looking to bake the perfect pie, master a regional dish, or simply cook with more confidence, these ten cookbooks offer timeless guidance with a contemporary twist. In 2025, let your next great meal begin with the turn of a page.