Cookbooks are some of our favourite things to collect. These books offer us a window into our history, stories, cultures and more. They teach us, challenge us, and inspire us to think deeper about what is on our plate. In partnership with Indigo.ca we’ve rounded up an eclectic list of our top 5 books, both old and new, to add to your reading list. This collection of books written by Black chefs, authors, entrepreneurs and community activists are filled with important stories of our food cultures, chefs and cuisines.
Senegal : Modern Senegalese Recipes from the Source to the Bowl
By:Pierre Thiam,Jennifer Sit
In this book, renowned Senegalese chef, Pierre Thiam takes readers on a journey to his homeland through food. His book not only shares colourful, delicious modern Senegalese recipes, it also explores the history behind Senegalese food culture. You’ll learn the ways in which colonization disrupted the use of traditional healthy Senegalese grains while also being inspired by Chef Pierre Thiam’s commitment to promoting traditional Senegalese foods & ingredients.
Afro Vegan: Farm Fresh African, Caribbean and Southern flavors remixed
By: Bryant Terry
Whether you’re vegan, flexitarian like me, or just a foodie who loves to try new recipes, Bryant Terry’s book AfroVegan, is a classic that should be added to your cookbook collection. In this book, Bryant remixes African, Caribbean & Southern recipes to create delicious exciting plant based meals. He also explores the African diaspora’s plant based roots. For Bryant, creating healthy plant based foods is a form of activism and as you read his commentary you will be empowered to make better food choices that are flavourful and rooted in African traditions. Plus each recipe comes with a dope worldly music selection to set the vibe as you cook up a feast.
Notes from a young Black Chef: A Memoir
By: Kwame Onwuachi with Joshua David Stein
In this book, chef Kwame gives readers an honest and raw look into his journey as a Black chef. He opens up about his struggles with self doubt, a highly publicized restaurant closure and how he bounced back bigger and better from major setbacks. In addition to this, he explores interesting themes such as how the world of fine dining treats and often excludes Black chefs as well as how his diverse roots inspire his unique approach to food. In between his compelling story of hustle and resilience he sprinkles delicious recipes that helped shape his identity as a chef. Whether you’re in the food industry or just a foodie, this is a great and inspiring read!
Black Girl Baking: Wholesome Recipes inspired by a soulful upbringing
By: Jerrelle Guy
Jerrelle Guy, the founder and blogger behind the popular brand Chocolate for Basil, shares her stories and treats in this book of mostly plant based, delicious, simple and sometimes fancy desserts. Her recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth while offering healthier ways to indulge. Her intuitive style, helpful tips and interesting personal stories that come with each recipe are an extra bonus. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this book has something in it for you.
Marcus Off duty: The Recipes I cook at home
By: Marcus Samuelsson with Roy Finamore
You can always count on Harlem based celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson for a good recipe and a great story! This book shines light on the types of dishes he prepares in his own kitchen and is filled with tasty approachable recipes that are great for everyday and entertaining. Each recipe has a unique backstory and is inspired by Marcus’ diverse upbringing and culinary travel adventures. Think Ethiopian Doro wat tostadas or famous Bajan fish burgers – it’s a mashup of good food from around the world that you’re sure to love!
This post has been sponsored by indigo, however all thoughts and opinions are my own.
