Every year on 6th September, book lovers across the globe celebrate Read a Book Day.
It’s the perfect excuse to curl up with a favourite title, discover something new, or finally open that book that’s been sitting on your shelf for months.
While novels and biographies may get most of the attention, this year why not take the opportunity to explore a different kind of book—one that feeds both your mind and your stomach?
Culinary books and recipe collections have long been treasured companions in the kitchen, inspiring generations of cooks and capturing the flavours of cultures near and far. They’re not just manuals on how to prepare food—they’re windows into history, culture, creativity, and tradition.
Why Culinary Books Belong in Your Reading List
A Blend of Story and Flavour – The best recipe books don’t just tell you how to cook; they tell you why. Many are filled with personal anecdotes, regional histories, and cultural insights that enrich your understanding of the dishes.
Food as a Universal Language – Exploring culinary books is like travelling the world without leaving your home. From the spice markets of India to the pastry shops of Paris, each recipe book takes you on a journey.
Practical and Rewarding – Unlike most books, culinary titles give you something tangible to enjoy when you turn the page: a finished dish that you can share with friends or family.
Modern Favourites Worth Tasting
Ottolenghi Simple by Yotam Ottolenghi – Fresh, vibrant recipes with bold Middle Eastern flavours made approachable.
The Green Roasting Tin by Rukmini Iyer – A collection of fuss-free one-pan meals perfect for busy weeknights.
Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat – More than a recipe book, this is a masterclass in the fundamentals of cooking.
The Book of St John by Fergus Henderson & Trevor Gulliver – A celebration of nose-to-tail eating and classic British cooking.
A Nod to the Classics
Let’s not forget the timeless cookbooks that changed the way we approach food:
Mrs Beeton’s Book of Household Management (1861), which shaped Victorian kitchens.
Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, a landmark in bringing French cuisine to English-speaking audiences.
How to Mark Read a Book Day with Food
Cook a recipe you’ve never tried – Challenge yourself to explore a new cuisine.
Share the experience – Invite friends or family to join you in cooking a meal inspired by a favourite cookbook.
Read between the recipes – Take time to enjoy the author’s introductions, stories, and tips.
Start a food journal – Record your own notes, adaptations, and memories alongside recipes, turning your cooking into a personal story.
On this Read a Book Day, why not let your next culinary adventure begin with the turn of a page? Whether you’re baking bread, simmering a curry, or exploring forgotten family recipes, a good cookbook can provide both inspiration and comfort. After all, food—like books—is meant to be shared.
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