10 Best asian cookbooks 2025 in the United States

Japan: The Cookbook is a comprehensive culinary guide that dives deep into Japanese cuisine. It features a wide range of recipes, from everyday dishes to more complex creations, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks. The recipes are well-organized and categorized, helping users easily find what they're looking for. However, some recipes might require ingredients that are not readily available in all regions, which could be a limitation for those without access to specialty stores.

The book also offers insights into the cultural and historical context of Japanese food, adding depth and understanding to the culinary experience. Visually, the book is appealing with beautiful illustrations and photographs that complement the recipes and make the book a joy to browse. In terms of dietary preferences, it covers a variety of options, though those with specific dietary restrictions might find it less accommodating.

The hardcover format and high-quality production make it a durable and attractive addition to any cookbook collection, but its weight and size might make it less convenient for casual kitchen use. 'Japan: The Cookbook' is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring Japanese cuisine in depth, offering both educational and practical culinary content.

A Very Chinese Cookbook: 100 Recipes from China and Not China (But Still Really Chinese) offers a diverse assortment of recipes that explore traditional Chinese cuisine as well as Chinese-inspired dishes from other cultures. The book's focus on a variety of Chinese recipes is its primary strength, making it a good fit for those interested in authentic Chinese cooking. The recipes vary in complexity, catering to both novice cooks and experienced chefs.

Some dishes may require specific ingredients that are not readily available in all regions, which could be a potential drawback for some users. In terms of dietary preferences, the book includes a wide range of options including vegetarian and vegan dishes, though it may not be comprehensive for all dietary needs. The cultural and historical context provided in the book enriches the cooking experience, offering insights into the origins and traditions behind the recipes.

Visually, the cookbook is appealing with high-quality photographs that make the dishes look enticing and provide a helpful guide for presentation. The hardcover format and large dimensions make it a substantial addition to any kitchen library, although its weight might make it a bit cumbersome to handle while cooking. Published by America's Test Kitchen, the book benefits from a reputable source known for its reliable and tested recipes. This cookbook is an excellent choice for anyone looking to expand their culinary skills and understanding of Chinese cuisine.

'The Turkish Cookbook' is a comprehensive guide to Turkish cuisine, offering a vast array of recipes that cover different regions and traditional dishes. The recipes vary in complexity, catering to both novice cooks and more experienced chefs. This makes it a versatile addition to any kitchen. Ingredient accessibility might be a challenge for some, as Turkish cuisine can require specific spices and items not commonly found in all grocery stores, but it does provide alternatives and suggestions where possible.

For those with dietary preferences, the book includes a good mix of vegetarian and meat dishes, though it may not cater extensively to vegan or gluten-free diets. The cookbook excels in providing cultural and historical context, enriching the cooking experience with stories and backgrounds of various dishes. It’s beautifully illustrated with vibrant photos that make it visually appealing and inspiring.

However, its substantial size and weight might make it less convenient to handle in a busy kitchen. 'The Turkish Cookbook' is ideal for those looking to delve deep into Turkish cuisine and appreciate a mix of culinary tradition and modern taste.