10 Best Chinese Cookbook 2026 in the United States

The Wok: Recipes and Techniques is a substantial hardcover book that provides a comprehensive guide to cooking with a wok. With 672 pages, it is quite detailed and covers a wide range of recipes, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks. The book's dimensions and weight suggest it is a large and heavy volume, which might be challenging to handle in the kitchen but also indicates thorough content.

The variety of recipes is a highlight, offering diverse dishes that showcase the versatility of wok cooking. This variety ensures that there is something for every taste and skill level, from simple stir-fries to more complex dishes. Ingredient accessibility is well-balanced; while some ingredients may require a trip to an Asian grocery store, many recipes use items readily available in most supermarkets.

The book excels in providing cultural and historical context, enriching the cooking experience by connecting recipes to their origins and traditions. 'The Wok: Recipes and Techniques' is a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding and skills in Chinese cooking, with detailed instructions and a wide range of recipes.

A Very Chinese Cookbook: 100 Recipes from China and Not China (But Still Really Chinese) is a comprehensive hardcover book published by America's Test Kitchen. This cookbook is suitable for home chefs of varying skill levels, offering a mix of traditional and modern Chinese recipes, which ensures a good variety for different tastes.

The recipes are accessible to those who might not have extensive knowledge of Chinese cooking, though some might require specialty ingredients not readily available in all areas, which could be a drawback for some users. The book includes insightful cultural and historical context, enriching the cooking experience by providing background on the dishes and their origins.

Additionally, the visual appeal is strong with high-quality images and a well-organized layout, making it easy to follow along. The physical size and weight (3.4 pounds) could be cumbersome for some users. This cookbook is ideal for those interested in exploring authentic and innovative Chinese cuisine, while also appreciating the cultural stories behind the dishes.

Mooncakes and Milk Bread offers a unique take on Chinese baking, blending traditional and modern recipes inspired by Chinese bakeries. It is great for bakers who enjoy exploring sweet and savory treats beyond typical Chinese dishes. The cookbook features a moderate skill level, making it approachable for bakers with some experience but might be challenging for complete beginners due to some detailed techniques.

The recipe variety is focused mainly on bakery-style items like mooncakes and milk bread, making it perfect for those wanting to dive into this niche rather than broad Chinese cooking. Ingredient accessibility can vary; some specialty items might require a visit to an Asian market, but the book does a good job explaining alternatives when possible.

Cultural and historical context is thoughtfully woven into the recipes, providing insight into the significance of these baked goods in Chinese culture, which adds depth to the cooking experience. Visually, the book is appealing with inviting photos that showcase the final products, helping readers understand what to aim for. For baking enthusiasts eager to explore Chinese bakery classics with a modern twist, this cookbook is a solid choice, though it’s less suited for those seeking a wide range of traditional Chinese meals or simple recipes with everyday ingredients.