10 Best Thai Cookbooks 2026 in the United States

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.

‘101 Thai Dishes You Need to Cook Before You Die’ is a well-curated collection for anyone eager to explore the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. The cookbook is designed to cater to a broad range of skill levels, providing clear instructions that both beginners and more experienced cooks can follow. The variety of recipes included is commendable, offering a comprehensive taste of Thai culinary traditions, from street food to more elaborate dishes.

Ingredient accessibility is addressed thoughtfully, with many recipes using ingredients that can be found in most well-stocked supermarkets or Asian grocery stores. However, some more authentic or rare ingredients might require a trip to a specialty store or online shopping. The cookbook excels in providing cultural context, offering anecdotes and background information that enrich the cooking experience and deepen the reader’s appreciation of Thai culture. Visually, the book is appealing, featuring vibrant, high-quality images that make the dishes look enticing and the instructions easy to follow.

Authored by an expert in Thai cuisine, the book carries the weight of authority and authenticity, ensuring that readers are getting reliable and tested recipes. The paperback format might not be as durable as a hardcover for frequent use in the kitchen. This cookbook is ideal for anyone with a passion for Thai food, from novices to seasoned home cooks, looking to bring the rich flavors of Thailand into their own kitchen.

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.