10 Best Thai Cookbooks 2026 in the United States

The 'Sabai: 100 Simple Thai Recipes for Any Day of the Week' cookbook is designed to cater to a range of skill levels, making it accessible for both beginners and more experienced cooks. With 100 recipes, it offers a good variety, allowing users to explore different aspects of Thai cuisine. The recipes are designed to be simple and straightforward, which is great for those who may be new to Thai cooking or looking for quick meal solutions. Ingredient accessibility is generally good, with most ingredients being available at standard grocery stores or Asian markets. This makes it feasible for many users to recreate the dishes without too much trouble sourcing the items.

The cookbook does a decent job of providing cultural context, giving readers a glimpse into Thai cuisine and traditions, but it might not be as in-depth as more specialized or region-focused cookbooks. Visually, the book is quite appealing, with high-quality photographs that make the dishes look delicious and inviting. This can be very motivating for users to try out the recipes. The author lends credibility and expertise to the book.

In terms of physical attributes, the book is relatively large and heavy, which might make it less portable but more substantial as a kitchen reference. Published by Appetite by Random House in March 2023, it is a recent addition to the culinary world, promising fresh and contemporary takes on Thai cooking.

The Principles of Thai Cookery by Chef McDang is a comprehensive and beautifully presented cookbook that serves as an encyclopedia of Thai cuisine. It excels in educational value, providing an in-depth look at Thai eating culture and history, which is perfect for those who are not just looking to cook Thai food but also to understand the context behind the dishes.

With 57 genuine Thai recipes, there is a decent variety. Chef McDang's expertise shines through, ensuring that the recipes are authentic and reliable. The visual appeal is strong, with the hardcover edition offering a high-quality and visually attractive presentation. The book's weight (3.25 pounds) and 304 pages make it quite hefty, which might be cumbersome for some users to handle in the kitchen.

The recipes are well-explained, but the skill level required can vary; some dishes might be challenging for beginners due to the complexity of traditional Thai cooking techniques. Ingredient accessibility could be a concern for those living outside of areas with well-stocked Asian markets, as authentic Thai recipes often call for specific ingredients that may not be readily available everywhere. For those passionate about Thai cuisine and eager to delve into its rich cultural context, this cookbook is a valuable resource.

Pok Pok: Food and Stories from the Streets, Homes, and Roadside Restaurants of Thailand is a well-regarded Thai cookbook that offers an authentic glimpse into Thai cooking and culture. Written by a chef with deep experience in Thai food, the book provides a rich cultural context by sharing stories and traditions behind the recipes, making it appealing to those who want more than just instructions. The recipe variety is strong, covering everything from street food to home-style dishes, giving readers a wide range of options to explore.

This cookbook leans toward cooks with some experience, as certain recipes require careful preparation and attention to detail. Beginners might find a few steps complex, but the detailed instructions and storytelling help guide them through the process. Ingredient accessibility can be a challenge for those outside major cities or without access to Asian markets, since some authentic ingredients might be difficult to find locally. However, the book’s emphasis on authenticity means it largely avoids shortcuts.

The visual appeal is moderate; while it includes some photos showcasing finished dishes and the atmosphere of Thai street food, it’s not heavily focused on glossy images or step-by-step photos. For those interested in learning about the culture and history behind their food and trying genuine Thai recipes, this book serves as a solid choice. It is particularly suited for home cooks eager to explore authentic Thai cuisine beyond basic dishes, though they should be prepared for some effort in sourcing ingredients and following detailed recipes.