Vegan cooking has exploded in popularity, and with it, a flood of incredible plant-based vegan cookbooks. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan chef or just starting to explore meat-free meals, having the right cookbooks can make all the difference in your culinary adventures.
I’ve scoured the shelves and tested countless recipes to bring you this comprehensive guide to the seven best vegan cookbooks you absolutely need in your kitchen.
1. The Oh She Glows Cookbook by Angela Liddon
Angela Liddon’s “The Oh She Glows Cookbook” has become a cornerstone in many vegan kitchens, and for good reason. This New York Times bestseller features over 100 plant-based recipes that are both delicious and approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
Liddon’s focus on whole foods and her talent for creating satisfying vegan versions of classic comfort foods set this cookbook apart. From hearty entrees to indulgent desserts, each recipe comes with beautiful photography and clear instructions.
The book also includes valuable tips on stocking a vegan pantry and meal planning, making it an excellent choice for those new to plant-based eating.
One standout recipe is the Crowd-Pleasing Tex-Mex Casserole. This dish perfectly shows how vegan cooking can be both nutritious and deeply satisfying.
Layers of corn tortillas, black beans, and a cashew-based cheese sauce create a comforting meal that even non-vegans will love.
Liddon’s attention to detail shines through in recipes like her Glowing Green Smoothie Bowl. She provides variations and topping suggestions, allowing readers to customize the recipe to their tastes.
This level of flexibility is particularly helpful for those new to vegan cooking who might be unsure about certain ingredients.
The cookbook also excels in it’s dessert section. The Chilled Chocolate Espresso Torte with Hazelnut Crust is a showstopper that proves vegan desserts can be just as decadent as their traditional counterparts.
Liddon’s clear instructions make even complex-looking desserts feel achievable for home cooks.
“The Oh She Glows Cookbook” stands out for it’s ability to make vegan cooking accessible and exciting. Liddon’s warm writing style and personal anecdotes make you feel like you’re cooking alongside a friend.
This cookbook is an essential addition to any plant-based kitchen, offering a perfect balance of nutrition, flavor, and creativity.
2. Veganomicon: The Ultimate Vegan Cookbook by Isa Chandra Moskowitz and Terry Hope Romero
Often hailed as the vegan bible, “Veganomicon” by Isa Chandra Moskowitz and Terry Hope Romero is a comprehensive cookbook containing over 250 recipes. This book covers everything from basic cooking techniques to elaborate holiday feasts, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and experienced vegan cooks.
What makes “Veganomicon” stand out is it’s wide range of recipes that draw inspiration from various global cuisines. The authors have a knack for creating bold, flavorful dishes that challenge the notion that vegan food is bland or boring.
They also provide helpful tips on ingredient substitutions and cooking techniques, adding extra value to this already robust cookbook.
The Chickpea Cutlets recipe from this book has achieved legendary status in the vegan community. These protein-packed patties are versatile, easy to make, and incredibly delicious.
They can be served as a main dish, sliced for sandwiches, or crumbled over salads.
This recipe showcases the cookbook’s ability to create satisfying meat alternatives that don’t rely on processed vegan products.
Another standout recipe is the Moroccan Tagine with Chickpeas, Olives, and Prunes. This aromatic dish combines complex flavors and textures, demonstrating how vegan cooking can be sophisticated and dinner-party worthy.
The authors provide clear instructions for making your own spice blend, encouraging readers to explore new flavor profiles.
The baking section of “Veganomicon” is particularly impressive. The Jelly Donut Cupcakes are a creative twist on a classic treat, featuring a vanilla cupcake filled with fruit preserves and topped with a powdered sugar glaze.
This recipe, like many others in the book, comes with variations and tips for customization.
One of the most valuable aspects of “Veganomicon” is it’s extensive introductory section. The authors provide in-depth information on stocking a vegan pantry, essential kitchen tools, and basic cooking techniques. Read my article for more information on a beginner vegan grocery list.
This makes the cookbook an excellent educational resource, especially for those new to vegan cooking or looking to expand their culinary skills.
“Veganomicon” is a must-have for anyone looking to expand their vegan cooking repertoire and explore the full potential of plant-based cuisine. It’s comprehensive nature, global flavors, and tried-and-true recipes make it a cookbook you’ll return to time and time again.
3. Thug Kitchen: The Official Cookbook
With it’s irreverent tone and no-nonsense approach to vegan cooking, “Thug Kitchen: The Official Cookbook” has made waves in the culinary world. This cookbook proves that eating plant-based doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or fun.
The book’s unique selling point is it’s ability to make vegan cooking feel accessible and cool. The authors use humor and straight talk to demystify plant-based cooking and encourage readers to get creative in the kitchen.
While the language may not be for everyone, the recipes themselves are solid, focusing on whole foods and bold flavors.
One recipe that exemplifies the Thug Kitchen approach is their Roasted Beer and Lime Cauliflower Tacos. This dish takes a humble vegetable and changes it into a crave-worthy taco filling.
The cauliflower is marinated in a mixture of beer, lime juice, and spices before being roasted to perfection.
Topped with a tangy cabbage slaw and served in warm corn tortillas, these tacos show how vegan cooking can be both innovative and delicious.
The cookbook also excels in it’s breakfast section. The Pumpkin Chili is a hearty, warming dish that’s perfect for cool mornings or as a comforting dinner.
Packed with beans, vegetables, and warming spices, this recipe shows how vegan meals can be satisfying and protein-rich without relying on meat substitutes.
One of the most valuable aspects of “Thug Kitchen” is it’s emphasis on cooking from scratch. The authors provide recipes for kitchen staples like vegetable stock, salad dressings, and spice blends.
This encourages readers to move away from processed foods and take control of what goes into their meals.
The book also includes a helpful guide to building a vegan pantry, with explanations of less common ingredients and tips for shopping on a budget. This makes the cookbook particularly useful for those new to vegan cooking or looking to eat more plant-based meals without breaking the bank.
“Thug Kitchen” is perfect for those who want to inject some attitude and excitement into their plant-based cooking. It’s approachable recipes and irreverent style make vegan cooking feel fun and accessible, even for those who might be skeptical about plant-based eating.
4. Forks Over Knives: The Cookbook by Del Sroufe
Based on the popular documentary of the same name, “Forks Over Knives: The Cookbook” focuses on whole-food, plant-based recipes that are delicious and promote optimal health. This cookbook is perfect for those interested in the intersection of veganism and nutrition.
What sets this cookbook apart is it’s emphasis on using whole, minimally processed ingredients. The recipes are oil-free and low in added sugars and salt, making them suitable for those following a strict whole-food, plant-based diet for health reasons.
Despite these restrictions, the recipes are flavorful and satisfying.
The Mushroom Stroganoff recipe from this book is a standout, proving that creamy, comforting dishes are still possible on a whole-food, plant-based diet. Instead of heavy cream, the sauce is made from cashews and vegetable broth, creating a rich and satisfying texture without added oils.
This recipe is a perfect example of how the cookbook reimagines classic dishes in a healthier, plant-based way.
Another impressive recipe is the Sweet Potato Lasagna. This innovative dish uses thin slices of sweet potato in place of pasta sheets, layered with a tofu-based ricotta and a hearty lentil and vegetable sauce.
It’s a nutrient-dense meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
The cookbook also excels in it’s breakfast offerings. The Apple-Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is a comforting dish that can be prepared ahead of time for easy weekday breakfasts.
Sweetened only with fruit and a touch of maple syrup, it’s a great example of how whole plant foods can create satisfying sweet treats without relying on refined sugars.
One of the most valuable aspects of “Forks Over Knives” is it’s focus on education. The book includes information on the health benefits of a whole-food, plant-based diet, as well as tips for transitioning to this way of eating.
Each recipe also comes with nutritional information, making it easy for readers to track their intake of key nutrients.
The cookbook also provides guidance on meal planning and batch cooking, which can be particularly helpful for those new to this style of eating. These practical tips make it easier to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, even with a busy schedule.
“Forks Over Knives” is an excellent choice for those looking to improve their health through plant-based eating without sacrificing taste. It’s whole-food approach and focus on nutrition make it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the health benefits of a vegan diet.
5. Vegan for Everybody by America’s Test Kitchen
America’s Test Kitchen is known for it’s rigorous recipe testing, and “Vegan for Everybody” brings that same attention to detail to plant-based cooking. This cookbook is ideal for those who want to understand the science behind vegan cooking and baking.
The strength of this cookbook comes from it’s thorough explanations of ingredients and techniques. Each recipe comes with a “why this recipe works” section, providing insights into the culinary science behind the dish.
This makes it an excellent resource for those who want to develop their cooking skills and understand how to create their own vegan recipes.
The Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Soup recipe in this book is a perfect example of how America’s Test Kitchen tackles vegan recipe development. They’ve created a creamy, “cheesy” soup without any dairy products, demonstrating their ability to copy traditional flavors in plant-based form.
The soup gets it’s creamy texture from a combination of cashews and potatoes, while nutritional yeast and miso paste provide a savory, cheese-like flavor.
Another standout recipe is the Ultimate Vegan Cheeseburger. The patty is made from a combination of bulgur, lentils, and mushrooms, creating a texture that’s satisfyingly meaty without trying to mimic meat exactly.
The accompanying vegan cheese sauce, made from cashews and potatoes, is a versatile recipe that can be used in many other dishes.
The baking section of “Vegan for Everybody” is particularly impressive. The Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe tackles the challenge of creating a chewy, flavorful cookie without eggs or butter.
The detailed explanation of how different ingredients affect the final texture of the cookie is fascinating and educational.
One of the most valuable aspects of this cookbook is it’s comprehensive guide to vegan ingredients. The authors provide in-depth information on plant-based proteins, dairy choices, and egg substitutes.
This section is incredibly helpful for understanding how to adapt non-vegan recipes or create your own vegan dishes.
The cookbook also includes a section on vegan nutrition, addressing common concerns about getting enough protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients on a plant-based diet. This information, combined with the nutrient-dense recipes, makes “Vegan for Everybody” a great resource for those concerned about the nutritional aspects of a vegan diet.
“Vegan for Everybody” is a must-have for the curious cook who wants to understand the why behind successful vegan recipes. It’s scientific approach and thoroughly tested recipes make it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to perfect their plant-based cooking skills.
6. Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking by Dana Shultz
Dana Shultz’s “Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking” is perfect for those who want delicious vegan meals without spending hours in the kitchen. This cookbook focuses on recipes that need 10 ingredients or less, can be made in one bowl, or take 30 minutes or less to prepare.
The book’s appeal comes from it’s simplicity and practicality. Shultz understands that not everyone has the time or inclination for complicated recipes, and she’s created a collection of dishes that are both easy to make and satisfying to eat.
The cookbook also includes many gluten-free options, making it suitable for people with various dietary restrictions.
The 1-Bowl Vegan Banana Bread recipe from this book exemplifies Shultz’s approach. It’s simple, delicious, and proves that vegan baking doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating.
The recipe comes together quickly in a single bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
Despite it’s simplicity, the banana bread is moist, flavorful, and sure to become a staple in many kitchens.
Another standout recipe is the 30-Minute Coconut Curry. This dish packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort.
It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with different vegetables or proteins, making it perfect for using up whatever you have in the fridge.
The creamy coconut sauce and warming spices create a comforting meal that feels far more complex than it’s simple preparation suggests.
The cookbook also excels in it’s approach to plant-based proteins. The Crispy Baked Tofu recipe provides a foolproof method for achieving perfectly textured tofu without deep frying.
Shultz’s clear instructions and tips make it easy for even tofu novices to create a delicious, protein-packed dish.
One of the most valuable aspects of “Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking” is it’s focus on meal prep and planning. Shultz provides tips for making components of recipes ahead of time and suggests ways to repurpose leftovers.
This practical approach makes it easier to incorporate more plant-based meals into a busy lifestyle.
The cookbook also includes a helpful guide to stocking a vegan pantry, focusing on versatile ingredients that can be used in many recipes. This is particularly useful for those new to vegan cooking or looking to streamline their kitchen.
“Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking” is an excellent choice for busy people who want to incorporate more plant-based meals into their routine without sacrificing time or flavor. It’s simple, approachable recipes and practical tips make vegan cooking feel accessible to everyone, regardless of their culinary skill level.
7. Isa Does It: Amazingly Easy, Wildly Delicious Vegan Recipes for Every Day of the Week by Isa Chandra Moskowitz
Isa Chandra Moskowitz makes another appearance on our list with “Isa Does It,” a cookbook focused on weeknight-friendly vegan meals. This book is perfect for busy people who want to eat well without spending all their free time in the kitchen.
What makes this cookbook stand out is Moskowitz’s ability to create flavorful, satisfying meals using accessible ingredients and straightforward techniques. The recipes are designed to be made in 30 minutes or less, but they don’t sacrifice taste or creativity.
Moskowitz also includes helpful tips on meal planning and prepping, making it easier for readers to incorporate more plant-based meals into their routine.
The Chandra Malai Kofta recipe in this book is a prime example of how Moskowitz brings global flavors to weeknight cooking. This veganized version of a classic Indian dish features tender dumplings made from potatoes and cashews, simmered in a creamy tomato sauce.
Despite it’s complex flavors, the dish comes together quickly, making it manageable for a weeknight dinner.
Another standout recipe is the Ancho Lentil Tacos. This dish changes humble lentils into a flavorful, protein-packed taco filling that rivals any meat-based version.
The recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, proving that vegan cooking can be both quick and satisfying.
The cookbook also excels in it’s approach to vegan comfort food. The Rosemary Chocolate Chip Cookies are a perfect example of how Moskowitz elevates classic recipes with unexpected flavors.
The addition of rosemary to a traditional chocolate chip cookie creates a sophisticated treat that’s still comforting and familiar.
One of the most valuable aspects of “Isa Does It” is it’s focus on building flavor quickly. Moskowitz provides tips for creating depth of flavor in short cooking times, such as using miso paste to add umami or incorporating roasted garlic for instant complexity.
These techniques help readers create meals that taste like they’ve been simmering all day, even when they’re made in under an hour.
The cookbook also includes a helpful guide to stocking a vegan pantry, with a focus on ingredients that can be used in many recipes. This is particularly useful for those new to vegan cooking or looking to streamline their grocery shopping.
“Isa Does It” is an essential cookbook for anyone looking to make delicious vegan meals a regular part of their weekly routine. It’s focus on quick, flavorful recipes and practical cooking tips make it an invaluable resource for busy cooks who don’t want to sacrifice taste for convenience.
People Also Asked
What are the best vegan cookbooks for beginners?
For those new to vegan cooking, “The Oh She Glows Cookbook” by Angela Liddon and “Vegan for Everybody” by America’s Test Kitchen are excellent choices. These books offer clear instructions, accessible ingredients, and a range of recipes suitable for various skill levels.
Are there vegan cookbooks that focus on quick and easy meals?
Yes, “Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking” by Dana Shultz and “Isa Does It” by Isa Chandra Moskowitz both specialize in quick, easy vegan recipes perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I find vegan versions of classic comfort foods in these cookbooks?
Absolutely! “Veganomicon” by Isa Chandra Moskowitz and Terry Hope Romero, as well as “Thug Kitchen: The Official Cookbook,” offer many vegan versions of classic comfort foods.
Do these vegan cookbooks include nutritional information?
Some do. “Forks Over Knives: The Cookbook” by Del Sroufe includes nutritional information for each recipe, making it a great choice for those focused on health and nutrition.
Are there vegan cookbooks that cater to gluten-free diets?
Yes, “Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking” by Dana Shultz includes many gluten-free options, making it suitable for people who have gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Which vegan cookbook is best for international cuisine?
“Veganomicon” by Isa Chandra Moskowitz and Terry Hope Romero offers a wide range of recipes inspired by global cuisines, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore international flavors.
Are there vegan cookbooks that focus on whole foods and minimal processing?
“Forks Over Knives: The Cookbook” by Del Sroufe focuses on whole-food, plant-based recipes with minimal processing, making it ideal for those interested in a more whole foods approach to vegan eating.
Which vegan cookbook is best for understanding the science behind plant-based cooking?
“Vegan for Everybody” by America’s Test Kitchen provides detailed explanations of the science behind vegan cooking techniques and ingredient substitutions, making it perfect for those who want to understand the “why” behind recipes.
Are there vegan cookbooks that offer meal planning and prep tips?
Both “Isa Does It” by Isa Chandra Moskowitz and “Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking” by Dana Shultz offer helpful meal planning and prep tips to make vegan cooking more manageable in busy lifestyles.
Which vegan cookbook is best for impressive, dinner-party worthy recipes?
“Veganomicon” by Isa Chandra Moskowitz and Terry Hope Romero includes many sophisticated recipes perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or special occasions.
Key Takeaways
- “The Oh She Glows Cookbook” offers approachable, whole-food based recipes for all skill levels.
- “Veganomicon” provides a comprehensive collection of global-inspired vegan recipes.
- “Thug Kitchen” brings attitude and accessibility to plant-based cooking.
- “Forks Over Knives” focuses on health-promoting, whole-food plant-based recipes.
- “Vegan for Everybody” explores the science behind successful vegan cooking.
- “Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking” offers simple, quick recipes for busy cooks.
- “Isa Does It” provides weeknight-friendly vegan meals without sacrificing flavor.
