Who a cookbook suits
A cookbook suits someone who likes to cook and enjoys reading about food. It works for a keen home cook, a beginner who has just moved out, a parent who wants new ideas for dinner, or a friend who is hosting more often.
Choose with a specific cook in mind. A cookbook chosen for the person's tastes, a chef they follow or a cuisine they love will be used. A generic one is likely to stay on the shelf.
What to look for in a cookbook
- The cook. Think about what they cook now. A beginner needs clear steps and short ingredient lists. A confident cook may want technique, or an unfamiliar cuisine.
- The cuisine or chef. Italian, Middle Eastern, Indian and baking are common choices. A chef they watch or follow is a safe guide.
- Photographs. Some cooks want a picture of every dish, and others prefer a book with fewer images and more writing.
- Edition. Many are hardcover and look good on a kitchen shelf. Overseas editions may use cups, Fahrenheit or ingredient names that differ here, so check the listing.
- Dietary needs. If they are vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free, look for a book written for that.
- Reading or cooking. Some books are as much a story about food as a set of recipes. They suit someone who likes to read.
When a cookbook is the wrong gift
If they cook from websites and videos and never from a book, it may go unopened. If they own a shelf of cookbooks already, you risk a duplicate, so look at what they have. And someone who dislikes cooking is better given something to eat, or a meal out.