Salt Fat Acid Heat by Samin Nosrat
If you are going to own just one cookbook, this modern classic should be the one. Nosrat helps you master the four elements of cooking (hence the book title). The simple illustrations inspire joy in the kitchen. Salt Fat Acid Heat is praised by both James Beard award winners and home cooks. The book also makes a great wedding shower or housewarming gift!
Kismet: Bright, Fresh, Vegetable-Loving Recipes by Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson
A recent Paper Hearts/Sterling Market Cookbook Club pick, Kismet is a joyful collection of vibrant and fresh recipes that will make your mouth and belly happy. Mediterranean takes on classics such as Harrisa Party Wings make this a book for all to enjoy.
Pasta Grannies: The Secrets of Italy's Best Home Cooks by Vicki Bennison
You might have seen one of the viral videos of Italian grandmothers making pasta dishes in their homes. Now there is an official cookbook. This narrative cookbook gives a peek into the kitchens of Italian women making pasta from scratch for generations. It is heartwarming and inspiring. This is a book you will want to spend time with — a slow burn if you will. The recipes will challenge you in the kitchen, but the payoff is so rewarding.
Trejo's Tacos: Recipes & Stories from L.A. by Danny Trejo
You might be laughing that this is a pick of mine, but you won't be laughing when you end up using this book week after week. This boxing bad boy is a pro in the kitchen as evidenced by his successful restaurants and his cookbooks. This book is especially great for entertaining guests at parties with recipes for drinks, sides, dips and more. The Cheesy Bean Dip recipe will win anyone over!
Join the Cookbook Club! Sterling Market's head pastry chef Paige Russell-Burt and I collaborate on cookbook picks and discussions. Gathering at Sterling Market, participants bring a recipe from the featured cookbook and enjoy a potluck-style tasting. No membership is required! We only ask that participants get their cookbook from a local independent bookstore or library. Follow Paper Hearts Bookstore on social media for more information.