Curious about the vegan lifestyle? Or maybe you’re just here for some delicious vegan recipes? No matter why you’re here—whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a curious newbie, or someone who accidentally stumbled upon this article while searching for “best bacon cookbooks” (hey, no judgment!), we’ve got something delicious for you.
We’ve rounded up 6 best vegan cookbooks that prove how delicious and easy plant-based cooking can be.
With these cookbooks, veggies, fruits, grains, and legumes steal the spotlight in every meal. You’ll soon find yourself thinking, “Why didn’t I go plant-based sooner?” Let’s jump in!
What Does Eating Vegan Mean?
Eating vegan means skipping animal products and embracing all things plant-based. And don’t worry—this isn’t about gnawing on bland salads and celery sticks like a rabbit. Quite the opposite! We’re talking about hearty stews, mouth-watering pastas, indulgent desserts, and vibrant salads that make your taste buds do the cha-cha. And our selection of cookbooks brings together the best of modern vegan cooking, ensuring you have access to meals that are not only nutritious but also incredibly flavorful.
Benefits of Going Vegan
- Health Boost: Eating vegan can make you feel like a nutrient superhero. With all the vitamins and antioxidants, it’s like giving your body a daily boost of awesomeness.
- Eco-Friendly: Going vegan helps you reduce your carbon footprint. Basically, you get to enjoy delicious vegan meals and help the planet at the same time. It’s a win-win!
- Animal Friendly: Let’s face it, animals are cute. Choosing plant-based means you’re saying, “I love you” to every cow, chicken, pig, and all living beings—no hugs needed, just a big appreciation for them.
6 Best Vegan Cookbooks
I Can Cook Vegan
Isa Chandra Moskowitz, the renowned queen of vegan home cooking, presents her effortlessly accessible guide to vegan home cooking—I Can Cook Vegan. This cookbook is perfect for anyone looking to embrace or enhance their plant-based lifestyle, offering easy-to-follow recipes that are both delicious and nutritious.
What you’ll find inside:
- Versatile Recipes: Soups, sides, sandwiches, pasta, and more, such as Lentil Walnut Bolognese, Kale Caesar Salad with Roasted Sprouts, and Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes.
- Comfort Classics: From Pad Thai to Mexican-style chili to vegan mac and cheese.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this book was intended as a starting point for new vegans, and as such, it accomplishes its goal nicely. It’s very informative and includes a lot of basic ingredients and recipes. I personally am quite taken with the (I think?) woodblock prints throughout. I also love the author’s writing voice. Even if you never make any of the recipes, the book is worth looking through just to hear what she has to say and how she says it!
– Susan, February 18, 2023
What’s more, inside, you’ll find shopping lists to simplify your grocery runs, achievable goals to keep you motivated, cheerleading boosts to encourage your culinary journey, and extensive FAQs to answer all your questions. Isa offers over 125 mouth-watering recipes to help you cook with confidence and creativity, turning simple ingredients into spectacular dishes.
The Korean Vegan Cookbook: Reflections and Recipes from Omma’s Kitchen
The Korean Vegan Cookbook by Joanne Lee Molinaro is a captivating blend of traditional Korean recipes and deeply personal narratives of the author’s Asian American heritage. Known for her engaging cooking videos on social media, Joanne presents both familiar and innovative vegan-friendly dishes that have made her a beloved figure in the culinary world.
What you’ll find inside:
- Pantry Staples: Discover essentials like gochujang and kimchi.
- Classic and Modern Recipes: Enjoy bibimbap, diverse tofu dishes, and tteokbokki arrabbiata.
- Personal Stories: Each recipe is paired with touching anecdotes from Joanne’s life.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I was so impressed with this recipe book. The author shares her story and background and it is very moving. It adds depth to her recipes and gives the why and purpose to her writing this book. I love biographies and just really enjoyed getting to know the author who has a beautiful soul.
– Amber Martinez, April 8, 2024
This cookbook is not just about food; it’s a mixture of family, culture, and identity, adorned with beautiful photographs that evoke the magic of Joanne’s famous TikToks. It’ll be perfect for anyone eager to explore the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with a plant-based twist.
Afro-Vegan: Farm-Fresh African, Caribbean, and Southern Flavors Remixed
Afro-Vegan by Bryant Terry is a groundbreaking cookbook that combines the vibrant flavors of African, Caribbean, and Southern cuisines in over 100 plant-based recipes. Perfect for anyone new to veganism or seasoned plant-based eaters, this collection is both a celebration and reinvention of Afro-diasporic cooking.
What you’ll find inside:
- Global Flavors: Discover dishes like Smashed Potatoes with Chile-Garlic Oil and Cinnamon-Soaked Wheat Berry Salad.
- Creative Twists: Enjoy recipes inspired by traditional dishes like creamy Coconut-Cashew Soup and crispy Teff and Grit Cakes.
- Cultural Insights: Each recipe comes with personal anecdotes and insights into the cultural significance of the food.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book has become one of my go-to’s when I need dinner ideas. Some of my favorite recipes are the tofu curry with mustard greens and the texas caviar with garlic toast. I’m really happy how every recipe I’ve tried has turned out great. Definitely recommend!
– scarn, December 31, 2023
Sweet + Salty: The Art of Vegan Chocolates, Truffles, Caramels, and More from Lagusta’s Luscious
Sweet + Salty by Lagusta Yearwood is a revolutionary guide to vegan confections. Starting her journey in 2003 with a vegan food-delivery service, Yearwood has since transformed the world of vegan sweets with her Hudson Valley shop, Lagusta’s Luscious, which opened in 2011. Her chocolates and caramels—packed with local fruits, unique herbs, and global spices—challenge traditional favorites.
What you’ll find inside:
- Innovative Recipes: Over 100 recipes for caramels, bonbons, truffles, and more.
- Vegan Delights: Fair-trade versions of classics like Snickers and pecan turtles.
- Bold Flavors: Exciting combinations like miso caramel sauce and thyme-preserved lemon caramels.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
My family loves sweet treats so I was looking forward to trying these recipes. And I am always wanting to be more plant based, so a vegan dessert book was perfect! The main two flavors highlighted were chocolate and caramel, both delicious options in my eyes. The candies I made from this book were all pretty tasty, especially the different flavored caramels. The recipes were easy to follow too. The book was beautiful as well with many colorful pictures. This would make a great gift for a vegan looking to experiment in the kitchen.
– Gina, July 30, 2023
Ideal for home confectioners, Sweet + Salty offers an engaging and inventive approach to vegan sweets crafted by one of the industry’s most pioneering chocolatiers.
One: Pot, Pan, Planet
One: Pot, Pan, Planet by Anna Jones redefines modern cooking with her innovative approach to quick, sustainable, and flavorful meals. This award-winning cook presents over 200 recipes that require minimal pans and simple ingredients, making everyday dinners effortless and delicious.
What you’ll find inside:
- One-Tray Wonders: Recipes like baked dhal with tamarind-glazed sweet potato.
- Quick Delights: Easy dishes such as tahini broccoli on toast.
- One-Pot Comforts: Soups and stews like Persian noodles.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Always sceptical when it comes to cookbooks- but this cookbook is honestly awesome! No fancy ingredients that you need to search for because Tesco, Asda etc don’t stock. Able to make fantastic tasty quick meals with little effort and minimal waste and expense! A new favourite book in our home ❤️
– Sugar stealers, January 21, 2024
This vegan cookbook harmonizes mindful eating with sustainability, offering not only delicious recipes but also practical advice on reducing food waste and making eco-friendly choices. Anna Jones’ latest collection is perfect for anyone looking to simplify their cooking while making a positive impact on the planet.
Anything You Can Cook, I Can Cook Vegan
Anything You Can Cook, I Can Cook Vegan by Richard Makin transforms the world of plant-based cooking with over 100 inventive recipes that recreate familiar flavors and dishes. From crispy fried “eggs” to seared salmon fillets, this cookbook brings the impossible to life without compromising on taste.
What you’ll find inside:
- Innovative Recipes: Indulge in vegan delights like fried eggs, mushroom brisket sandwiches, and chocolate pretzel pie.
- Homemade Magic: Learn how to craft your own vegan meats and cheeses.
- User-Friendly: Recipes come with difficulty ratings, ensuring confidence for all cooking levels.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I cannot say how much I love this cookbook. The food looks absolutely delicious! There are so many pictures! Everything looks just unbelievably tasty. I can’t wait to try the shashuka. I have followed him for years and this is everything I want to make and more!!! Please, please, please give this cookbook a try!
– S. Claeys, Athens, GA, March 12, 2024
Richard Makin’s book is the ultimate guide for those exploring the endless possibilities of vegan cuisine. With tips, techniques, and ingredient guides, you’ll discover how exciting and satisfying plant-based cooking can be, making this a must-have for every kitchen.
Final Thoughts
From quick weekday dinners to elaborate weekend feasts, these vegan cookbooks make it simple to enjoy plant-based meals every day. You’ll find recipes that cater to all skill levels, whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef. Plus, many of these books include helpful tips on everything from meal planning to understanding plant-based nutrition.
Don’t forget to check out our previous article Best Cookbooks of All Time for even more inspiration. In that comprehensive guide, we covered timeless culinary classics that are cherished by food enthusiasts worldwide.
And before you make your purchase, head over to BookScouter.com to compare prices, ensuring you get the best deal on these must-have vegan cookbooks.
Happy cooking, happy saving, and most importantly, happy eating!
