For someone who is interested in cooking, a good cookbook is the one gift that is always sure to please. Of course, the definition of what makes a good cookbook will vary from person to person. Some like a book filled with personal antedotes that helps them to explore a country's culture through its cuisine. Others prefer a no-nonsense approach that gets straight to the recipes. Here are my top picks for Chinese cookbooks:
This book takes an in-depth look at the history and essence of wok cooking. It is loaded with photographs, stories, interviews and practical cooking tips from chefs and Chinese culinary experts such as Florence Lin. Chapters range from the practical, such as stir-frying vegetables, to a whimsical look at the wok as a musical instrument. Scattered throughout are 125 detailed, easy to follow recipes. A perfect gift for anyone who is passionate about Chinese cuisine. Hardcover.
In her introduction author Eileen Yin Fei Lo notes that chicken is traditionally served at New Year's, birthdays and other important occasions, as it symbolizes rebirth in Chinese culture. In this book she provides 100 easy to prepare recipes, from traditional dishes such as Chicken Baked in Salt to the more modern Singapore Noodles. The book finishes with a three dish chicken feast, traditionally enjoyed after playing Mah-Jongg. Each recipe includes its Chinese name. Hardcover.
As the first foreigner to study at the famous Sichuan Institute of Higher Cuisine, Dunlop gained her knowledge of Szechuan cooking first-hand. Her book shows you how to make authentic versions of popular dishes such as Twice Cooked Pork, Pock-marked Bean Curd (Mapo Dofu), Eight Treasure Rice Pudding, and more. Each recipe includes its Chinese name and characters. The only potential drawback is that there are not many photographs. Hardcover.
Looking for a way to get dinner from stovetop to table in less than 10 minutes? The secret, according to Hugh Carpenter, lies in advance preparation and make-ahead sauces. At dinnertime, all that is left to do is put the food in the wok and start stir frying! The book features both basic Chinese recipes and some interesting fusion dishes, such as wok-seared shrimp made with storebought pesto sauce. And, as in other Hugh Carpenter books, lots of great photographs by Teri Sandison. Paperback.
Writer and chef duo Vivienne and Jennifer Lo are the daughters of well known gourmet chef and Chinese cookbook author Kenneth Lo. The book covers all the basics, from casseroles to noodles, and there is a wide variety of recipes. A good gift choice for someone with a basic knowledge of Chinese cooking who wants to expand their collection of recipes. Paperback.
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