10 Best Vegan Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

The 'Thug Kitchen' cookbook offers a fun and edgy take on vegan cooking, making it a great choice for those looking to spice up their plant-based diet. Recipe complexity varies, so there's something for both beginners and more experienced cooks. Ingredients are mostly accessible, often found in local grocery stores, and the book encourages improvisation if specific items aren't available.

The focus on whole, unprocessed foods generally makes for healthy eating. The cuisine type spans a variety of flavors and styles, keeping meals interesting and diverse. Visually, the book is appealing with vibrant photos that make the dishes look both delicious and approachable.

Authored by the creators of the popular Thug Kitchen blog, the book carries their signature voice and expertise, blending humor and straightforward guidance. However, the strong language might not be to everyone's taste and could be off-putting for some readers.