2024's must-have cookbooks: perfect gifts for food lovers
In 2024, a treasure trove of cookbooks hit the shelves, catering to various cooking styles and palates.
Whether you were seeking quick weeknight meals, comforting classics, plant-based innovations or delightful indulgences, this year’s selection promised to elevate your culinary adventures.
With the festive season here, these cookbooks would make the perfect gift or an exciting addition to your kitchen library.
“Mexico in Mzansi” by Aiden Pienaar
Among the standout releases, “Mexico in Mzansi” by chef Aiden Pienaar combines traditional Mexican recipes with South African flair.
From timeless classics like mole and nachos to unique creations such as Mexican chakalaka and sosatie tacos, Pienaar’s cookbook offers a flavourful journey that even the busiest home cooks can easily recreate.
The book not only guides readers through crafting delicious dishes but also teaches essential skills like making tortillas and salsas, presenting tacos, enchiladas and quesadillas as well as exploring various cooking methods such as braising and air-frying.
And for those with a sweet tooth, the delightful selection of desserts and an enticing collection of margaritas round off this must-have recipe book.
“Feastify” by B-well
Next is “Feastify” from B-well, designed to bring families and friends together through shared meals.
This cookbook offers a plethora of recipes, categorised into easy-to-share mains, elegant sides, and decadent desserts, with highlights including Moroccan-spiced spatchcock chicken and sticky date pudding.
For families hosting guests, make-ahead breakfast ideas like salted caramel bread ensure that everyone starts the day off right.
Not forgetting those on plant-based diets, the cookbook also features delectable vegan recipes, ensuring that it caters to all dietary preferences.
Brand manager Lunique Theunissen shares the brand’s vision, stating, “There is no greater ingredient for a good life than spending time laughing and connecting with friends and family while enjoying heaping platters of delicious food.”
“Ocean Cookbook 2024: The Whitefish Collection” by Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)
For seafood lovers, “Ocean Cookbook 2024: The Whitefish Collection”, compiled by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), is a digital gem.
Featuring contributions from chefs worldwide, this free cookbook highlights sustainable seafood practices while offering 12 family-friendly recipes tailored for South African kitchens.
Curated by chef Naledi Toona, it demonstrates that healthy, affordable meals can be prepared without compromising taste or environmental responsibility.
“The South African Keto & Intermittent Fasting Cookbook” by Rita Venter and Natalie Lawson
Rita Venter and Natalie Lawson present readers with “The South African Keto & Intermittent Fasting Cookbook”, a comprehensive guide for anyone eager to embrace a healthier lifestyle.
This resource is filled with nutritional information, meal plans, and easy-to-prepare recipes that make the ketogenic diet accessible.
From keto-friendly pasta to tasty alternatives for starchy veggies, this cookbook lays out a clear roadmap for success on your health journey.
“Hearty” by Pharma Dynamics
To promote cardiovascular wellness, “Hearty” by Pharma Dynamics showcases gourmet recipes inspired by the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet.
Featuring contributions from renowned South African chefs, the cookbook emphasises both flavour and health, with a stamp of approval from the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa.
Spokesperson Nicole Jennings highlights the importance of heart health, saying, “Health outcomes rely on a healthy heart and brain.”
“All Sorts of Junk Food Made Healthy” by Chantal Lascaris
Finally, those with a liking for comfort foods will delight in “All Sorts of Junk Food Made Healthy” by Chantal Lascaris.
This cookbook presents a guilt-free take on beloved junk food classics while retaining all the comfort and joy. Lascaris encourages readers to rebel against restrictive diets by substituting learning and wholesome ingredients without sacrificing flavour.
With 80 easy-to-follow recipes, this culinary collection is geared towards fostering a healthier relationship with food while ensuring that indulgence and satisfaction remain steadfast companions.