Whether you’re a beginner seeking weeknight dinner inspiration or an aspiring masterchef looking to hone your skills, the cookbook is an invaluable resource for all food enthusiasts. To help you build your collection, we have put together a list of our top five essential cookbooks.

 
The Cook’s Companion by Stephanie Alexander

The Cook’s Companion has become a staple in over 500,000 homes since it was first published in 1996. The book provides comprehensive information on everything you need to know about cooking, including ingredients, cooking techniques and kitchen equipment. Then, of course, there are the recipes. Close to 1000 failsafe recipes including all of the classics, from the Sunday roast to sponge cake.

 

The Naked Chef by Jamie Oliver

This is the book that launched Jamie into our kitchens (and hearts) with his fun, no fuss attitude towards cooking. The recipes are interesting, tasty, diverse, but best of all they get you excited about cooking because they are totally achievable. The instructions are easy to follow and use ingredients that you actually have in your pantry – there’s no quail eggs here! This is a fantastic first cookbook.

 

Plenty by Yotam Ottolenghi

Plenty will change the way you think about using vegetables and is a must for vegetarians and meat eaters alike. Lush images accompany each of the 120 recipes that explore a fresh perspective on vegetables through exciting flavours and innovative combinations. Although not a vegetarian himself, acclaimed London Chef Ottolenghi was inspired to create Plenty by his love of fresh, seasonal produce and European background. We love his kohlrabi, apple and beetroot salad, and chunky minestrone.

 
Every Day by Bill Granger

As the name hints, this is a fabulous collection of simple but stylish recipes for everyday life in Australia. Bill takes you through a typical week in the Granger household, from school lunches, to weeknight dinners, BBQ gatherings and Sunday brunch. There is not one recipe in this book that you will overlook – you will want to try cooking every single one of them. Favourites include berry hotcakes, lemon chicken, and – the very best – eggs all ways. This book will become your go-to for inspiration and you will find yourself reaching for it at least three times a week guaranteed.

 

The Complete Asia Cookbook by Charmaine Solomon

A veritable encyclopedia of Asian cooking, the Complete Asia Cookbook contains over 800 recipes from 16 countries. Each chapter covers basic techniques and classic dishes from a different region with clear, detailed instructions. Learn to roll sushi, fry samosas and make a mean gado gado. This classic cookbook has been introducing versatile Asian cuisine into Australian households since the 70’s and is still just as relevant today.