2020 Cookbook Wish List

I had so much fun putting together this year’s list of cookbooks that I would love to add to my shelf. Some of these books, I chose because I love the authors. Others, because the content excites me and fills me with ideas for my own meals. And even some because of the stories.

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I’m one of those people that sits down and reads a cookbook cover to cover before I start using it. I read all the intro pages, all the stories, and linger over the beautiful photographs. One day, I’d love to have one filled with my own words and images, but until then, here are some I’m excited for this year.

Some of these were released already in 2019, but I haven’t gotten a chance to check them out yet. Others I’m anticipating when they are published later this year. In any case, you’ll definitely find something to add to your own wish list.

1. Just the Good Stuff

by Rachel Mansfield
February 25

I have to love a debut release from a fellow blogger, and Rachel’s book sounds like it’s going to be full of good stuff – literally. It’s all about switching out ingredients to keep enjoying your favorites, just in a healthier way. This aligns perfectly with how I love to cook. Plus the sea salt dark chocolate peanut butter bars just sound divine.

2. Cool Beans

by Joe Yonan
February 4

Beans are one of my favorite plant-based proteins to cook with, so I am definitely intrigued by this release. You’ll notice a trend in this list is a leaning toward more vegetarian and vegan recipes, and this book is huge for that. I think it could be a great addition to my weekday lunches – especially the lentil, zucchini, and cherry tomato sloppy joes.

3. Rage Baking

by Katherine Alford and Kathy Gunst
February 4

If we’re talking about cookbooks to sit down and read, this is one I am definitely interested in. I know that cooking and baking are a huge source of relief for me when I’m feeling overwhelmed or anxious. So I am definitely excited to read stories of strong women of the resistance. Plus, I’m a little curious to see what they’re cooking!

4. Vegetable Kingdom

by Bryant Terry
February 11

I’ve got a couple fully vegan cookbooks in my collection, but this one feels more intricate and thorough. I like that it’s billed as making vegetables the star, instead of a focus on meat substitutes. That’s the attitude I want filling my bookshelf. I’m excited to try the citrus and garlic-herb braised fennel for one, but everything sounds delicious.

5. Simple Fruit

by Lauren Pfalzer
February 18

I can never resist a cookbook that’s all about fruit and organized by seasons! While I’m fairly comfortable baking with fruit, I expect this book could improve my skills when it comes to other cooking methods, like poaching and braising. This sounds like the perfect book to have on hand during farm share season.

6. Mod Cocktails

by Natalie Jacob
Released

I love a good cocktail, especially one that’s a throwback to the classic era. This book, first of all, super matches my own aesthetic, but also is filled with modern takes on all of your favorites. Plus how can you resist any cocktails when they have such fun names as the pink squirrel, the battle of New Orleans, or never say die. I know I’m intrigued!

7. The No-Waste Vegetable Cook Book

by Linda Ly
April 7

It’s one of my goals to waste less food, and I think this book could help me get there. I’m always trying to figure out what to do with beet greens or some of the stranger produce we get from the farm share. With recipes like carrot top salsa, I think this is exactly the addition I need to cut down.

8. Kitchen Remix

by Charlotte Druckman
April 7

Here’s a cookbook that sounds like it will be filled with fun, trendy recipes, but also has a unique concept. It’s all about using and combining the same ingredients in different ways to make multiple dishes. If you are stuck in a rut with your cooking, this seems like the book to get you out of it.

9. Umami Bomb

by Raquel Pelzel
Released

To start, I am obsessed with the bold colors and styling of this book. A cookbook should be useful and beautiful, and this fits the bill. Plus it’s got an entire chapter about miso. I’m sold. And we haven’t even gotten to the killer chocolate cake with, get this, soy sauce!

10. Disco Cube Cocktails

by Leslie Kirchhoff
April 7

I know, two cocktail books on my list this year, but hear me out. Lesie Kirchhoff, the author of this book is an ice cube artist, and the cocktails here are centered around the idea of ice, which is a super fun twist. I love the idea of infusing flavor into the ice in my drinks. Jalapeno ice in a margarita? Yes please!

11. The Magick of Food

by Gwion Raven
Released

I’m not usually into anything supernatural, but this book has my attention. I love learning about the culture behind food, and the rituals involved in bringing people together to share a meal. So even though I’m not looking to cast spells any time soon, I’m excited to dig into history and try some magical dishes on the way.

12. The Pastry School

by Julie Jones
April 7

I’m wrapping up the list with a book that will take your baking to the next level. Pastry is something that has always intrigued me, but I haven’t spent much time on. If this book is anything like author Julie Jones’s instagram, expect some gorgeous treats that are sure to impress with looks and taste.