10 Best Vietnamese Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

An: To Eat offers a rich collection of Vietnamese recipes intertwined with family stories, making it more than just a cookbook—it's a glimpse into Vietnamese culture and home cooking. It tends to excel in authenticity, as the recipes come from a family kitchen, which means you’re likely to get traditional flavors rather than overly simplified versions. The variety covers many classic dishes, giving a good range for anyone interested in Vietnamese cuisine. Ingredients are generally accessible, though some may require a visit to an Asian market depending on your location.

The recipes strike a balance in skill level, catering mostly to home cooks with some experience, rather than complete beginners or professional chefs. This makes it approachable but also a bit challenging if you’re new to cooking Vietnamese food. The cultural insights embedded in the stories add depth and context, enriching your cooking experience and understanding of the food’s background.

Visually, the book is nicely illustrated, with appealing photos that inspire you to try the dishes. However, it might be a bit heavy and large to handle comfortably in a busy kitchen. If you appreciate cookbooks that combine recipes with personal narrative and cultural history, this book is a great match. It’s ideal for those who want to explore authentic Vietnamese cooking with some guidance in ingredient sourcing and techniques.

"Secrets of the Red Lantern" offers more than just recipes; it combines Vietnamese cooking with personal stories that provide cultural background, enriching the cooking experience. With 344 pages, the book covers a wide range of traditional dishes, helping readers explore authentic flavors.

Written in English and published by a reputable publisher, the book is accessible to many readers, including those new to Vietnamese cuisine. The personal stories add cultural insights, enhancing understanding beyond the recipes themselves. Some basic cooking skills may be helpful to fully benefit from the book.

This cookbook is suitable for anyone interested not only in preparing Vietnamese food but also in gaining a deeper appreciation of the culture behind the cuisine.

The Slanted Door: Modern Vietnamese Food offers a diverse range of recipes that bring the flavors of Vietnam into your kitchen. The book stands out for its authenticity, as it is authored by Charles Phan, a renowned Vietnamese chef. Many of the recipes stay true to traditional Vietnamese roots while incorporating modern twists, which can be appealing for those looking to explore Vietnamese cuisine in new ways.

The ingredient accessibility varies; while some ingredients are common and can be found in most grocery stores, others may require a trip to a specialty Asian market, which could be a drawback for some users. The cookbook is suitable for home cooks with a moderate level of skill, as the recipes range from simple to more complex dishes. It provides clear instructions, but some recipes may be challenging for beginners.

Cultural insights are prominently featured, as the book not only provides recipes but also shares stories and background information about Vietnamese culinary traditions and the author's personal experiences. The visual appeal of the book is high, with beautiful food photography and an attractive layout, making it enjoyable to browse through as well as cook from. At 288 pages and with a substantial weight, it is a comprehensive guide that might be a bit bulky for some. This cookbook is ideal for food enthusiasts who are eager to delve into Vietnamese cuisine and appreciate the blend of traditional and modern elements.