10 Best Indian Cookbooks 2026 in the United States

The '660 Curries' cookbook is a comprehensive guide dedicated to Indian cuisine, specifically focusing on a multitude of curry recipes. With 809 pages, it offers an extensive variety of recipes ranging from simple everyday curries to more elaborate dishes, catering to various skill levels, from beginners to seasoned cooks. The book's extensive recipe variety is a significant strength, making it suitable for those looking to explore a wide range of Indian flavors and cooking techniques.

Another advantage is the detailed instructions provided, which can help beginners get accustomed to Indian cooking methods. However, the sheer volume of recipes might be overwhelming for some users, and finding specific recipes can be challenging without a well-organized index. In terms of ingredients, while many common spices and items are readily accessible, some specific regional ingredients might be harder to find for readers living outside of India, which could limit the practicality of certain recipes.

The book also touches upon various dietary preferences by including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, but it may not cater extensively to very specialized diets like vegan or gluten-free. Additionally, the cookbook provides cultural and historical context, enriching the reader’s understanding of Indian culinary traditions, which is a valuable educational aspect. Weighing around 3.39 pounds, its large size and weight might make it less convenient for daily use in the kitchen, and more suitable as a reference book. '660 Curries' is excellent for those passionate about delving deep into Indian cuisine and learning about diverse curry recipes, though it may present some practical challenges in terms of ingredient accessibility and ease of use.

An Invitation to Indian Cooking: 50th Anniversary Edition: A Cookbook is a comprehensive guide to Indian cuisine, making it an excellent choice for those who want to explore authentic Indian dishes. The book's focus on Indian cuisine is strong, offering a variety of traditional recipes that can cater to both beginners and experienced cooks. The skill level required varies, with some recipes being quite straightforward, while others may require more advanced cooking techniques and time. This allows for growth and learning as you become more familiar with Indian cooking methods.

One of the strengths of this cookbook is the accessibility of ingredients. Most of the recipes use ingredients that can be found in well-stocked grocery stores or specialty Indian markets, which makes it easier for readers to recreate the dishes at home. However, some rare spices and specific regional ingredients might be harder to find depending on your location. The cookbook is accommodating to various dietary preferences, offering recipes that are vegetarian, vegan, and meat-based, making it versatile for different diets.

Recipe variety is another highlight, as the book covers a wide range of dishes from different regions of India, including appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Additionally, the cookbook provides cultural and historical context, enriching the cooking experience by connecting the recipes to their origins and traditions. One potential drawback is that the book is quite heavy and large, which might make it cumbersome to handle in the kitchen. Nonetheless, its hardcover format ensures durability. The language is clear and easy to follow, making it accessible to a broad audience. In summary, An Invitation to Indian Cooking: 50th Anniversary Edition is a valuable resource for anyone interested in delving into Indian cuisine, offering a blend of traditional recipes, cultural insight, and dietary flexibility.

Madhur Jaffrey's Indian Cooking is a highly regarded cookbook for anyone looking to explore Indian cuisine. The book focuses deeply on traditional Indian recipes, providing a rich array of dishes that span various regions of India. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want authentic Indian flavors. However, some recipes may require a higher skill level, making this book potentially challenging for beginners.

The ingredients listed are generally accessible, though certain spices or items might be harder to find depending on your location. The cookbook offers a variety of recipes, catering to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian options which are widely present in Indian cooking. Jaffrey also includes cultural and historical insights, enriching the cooking experience with background stories and information about the dishes.

The book's expanded edition, published by Barrons Educational Series Inc, is in English and is a substantial volume with dimensions of 1 x 8 x 10.25 inches and a weight of 1.85 pounds, making it a considerable addition to your kitchen library. This cookbook is particularly beneficial for enthusiasts of Indian cuisine who have some cooking experience and are keen to delve into the cultural aspects of the food they prepare.