What is a good cookbook to use when learning how cook?

It's tough to recommend just ONE cookbook for everyone, as cooking styles and preferences vary so much! Here are some great cookbooks categorized to help you find the perfect fit:

For Absolute Beginners:

* "The Complete Cookbook for Beginners" by America's Test Kitchen: A thorough, comprehensive guide with easy-to-follow instructions and plenty of visuals.

* "Cooking for One" by America's Test Kitchen: If you're cooking for yourself, this book is perfect for making smaller portions without sacrificing flavor.

* "The Joy of Cooking" by Irma S. Rombauer, Marion Rombauer Becker & Ethan Becker: A classic, generational favorite known for its breadth of recipes and helpful advice.

For Mastering Basics:

* "The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook" by Ina Garten: Known for simple, elegant recipes perfect for entertaining or everyday meals.

* "The Food Lab" by J. Kenji López-Alt: A science-based approach to cooking that explains the "why" behind recipes, allowing you to understand the fundamentals.

* "The Flavor Bible" by Karen Page & Andrew Dornenburg: This isn't a recipe book, but a guide to flavor pairings that will help you become a more confident cook.

For Specific Diets/Interests:

* "The Mediterranean Diet Cookbook" by America's Test Kitchen: Delicious, healthy recipes that focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

* "The Vegan Cookbook" by America's Test Kitchen: Packed with plant-based recipes that are both delicious and easy to make.

* "The Complete Vegetarian Cookbook" by America's Test Kitchen: A vast collection of vegetarian recipes for every occasion.

To Get Inspiration:

* "Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat" by Samin Nosrat: This book is more about the principles of cooking than specific recipes, but it's a great resource for understanding flavor and technique.

* "Six Seasons: A New Way with Vegetables" by Joshua McFadden: This beautiful cookbook focuses on seasonal vegetables and simple, delicious ways to prepare them.

Additional Tips:

* Consider your budget: Some cookbooks are expensive, while others are more affordable.

* Look for cookbooks with clear instructions, good photos, and helpful tips.

* Read reviews and browse online resources to see what other cooks are saying about different cookbooks.

Happy cooking! 🍳 😄