10 Best Vegan Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

The Wicked Healthy Cookbook: Free. From. Animals. is a compelling option for those interested in exploring the vibrant world of vegan cooking. One of its standout strengths is its visual appeal, with beautifully illustrated pages that make the recipes look both appetizing and approachable. The hardcover format and substantial dimensions add to its durability, making it a reliable kitchen companion. Authors Chad and Derek Sarno bring their significant expertise to the table, with a wealth of experience in plant-based cooking that lends credibility and inspiration to the book.

The recipes themselves vary in complexity, catering to both novice cooks and more experienced chefs looking to expand their repertoire. However, some of the more intricate dishes may seem daunting for beginners. When it comes to ingredients, the cookbook shines in its use of fresh, whole foods, but certain components might be harder to find in smaller grocery stores or less urban areas, which could be a drawback for some users. The book also focuses on providing nutritional information, which is a plus for health-conscious readers.

The cuisine type is diverse, encompassing a range of global flavors that can keep meal times exciting and varied. While the book does an excellent job of showcasing the delicious potential of vegan cuisine, it would benefit from more tips on meal planning and substitutions for harder-to-find ingredients. In summary, The Wicked Healthy Cookbook is an inspiring and visually appealing resource for anyone looking to delve into vegan cooking, though it may present a few challenges for beginners and those with limited access to specialty ingredients.

Forks Over Knives―The Cookbook offers over 300 plant-based recipes designed to help you lose weight, stay healthy, and feel better every day. The recipes are generally straightforward, making them accessible even for novice cooks. The emphasis on simplicity means that most recipes do not require advanced cooking skills or hard-to-find ingredients, which is a big plus for someone just starting a plant-based diet or looking for easy meal ideas.

However, some users might find the reliance on common ingredients a bit repetitive over time. The cookbook is comprehensive, covering a wide range of cuisines, which adds to its versatility. Nutritional information is not always present for every recipe, which could be a drawback for those strictly monitoring their intake. Visually, the book might not be the most appealing as there could be more vibrant images to accompany the recipes.

On the positive side, the author is experienced and credible in the plant-based community, adding a level of expertise and trustworthiness to the content. The book's 368 pages are packed with valuable content, though its size and weight might make it a bit cumbersome to handle in the kitchen. 'Forks Over Knives―The Cookbook' is an excellent resource for those wanting to delve into plant-based eating with practical, everyday recipes that do not require a lot of fuss.

The Homemade Vegan Pantry: The Art of Making Your Own Staples is a comprehensive cookbook by Ten Speed Press, published in June 2015. It is designed for those who are dedicated to vegan cooking and prefer to make their own staples from scratch, which can be an appealing feature for many home cooks seeking control over their ingredients and recipes.

The author provides detailed guidance on creating a wide range of vegan essentials, such as dairy-free cheeses, condiments, and pantry staples, which can significantly elevate one's plant-based culinary skills. The complexity of the recipes varies, with some requiring a fair amount of time and effort, which might be a challenge for beginners or those looking for quick-fix solutions. However, for more experienced cooks or those enthusiastic about culinary endeavors, this could be quite rewarding.

Ingredients used in the recipes are generally accessible, though some may require visits to specialty stores or online shopping. The cookbook does provide nutritional information, which is useful for those monitoring their dietary intake. The visual appeal of the book is notable, with high-quality photographs that inspire and guide the cooking process. The author's expertise is evident throughout the book, offering well-researched and tested recipes that cater to a variety of vegan cuisine types, making it a valuable addition to a vegan home cook's library. The size and weight of the book (7.8 x 0.93 x 9.32 inches and 1.75 pounds) make it a substantial, durable resource that can withstand frequent use in the kitchen.