10 Best Vietnamese Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

'Vietnamese Food Any Day' offers a blend of simplicity and authenticity, making Vietnamese cuisine accessible for home cooks. It features a wide variety of recipes, from traditional dishes to modern adaptations, ensuring there's something for everyone. The recipes are designed to use ingredients that are easy to find in most supermarkets, which is a significant advantage for those who may not have access to specialty Asian grocery stores.

This makes the book suitable for both beginner and intermediate cooks who want to explore Vietnamese flavors without too much hassle. The instructions are clear and straightforward, making it approachable even for those who are new to cooking. Additionally, the book provides cultural insights that enrich the cooking experience, giving readers a deeper appreciation of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

The visual appeal is another strong point, with beautiful photographs that not only illustrate the finished dishes but also inspire readers to get cooking. Some may find that the simplification of certain recipes might compromise a bit on authenticity. The hardcover format and high-quality pages add to the appeal, making it a lovely addition to any kitchen library. 'Vietnamese Food Any Day' is an excellent choice for those looking to dive into Vietnamese cooking with ease and enjoyment, though it may not satisfy everyone's craving for deeply traditional recipes.

The Food of Vietnam is a well-regarded cookbook offering a broad selection of authentic Vietnamese recipes. With 368 pages, it covers many traditional dishes, helping both beginners and more experienced cooks explore the cuisine. The book is illustrated, which adds visual appeal and makes recipes easier to follow. Since it’s published in English, it often includes ingredient suggestions accessible outside Vietnam, though some authentic ingredients might still require specialty stores. It also provides cultural insights that enrich the cooking experience, helping you understand the context behind the dishes.

Weighing around 5 pounds, it’s a substantial book with a sturdy feel, which might be less convenient for quick kitchen use. The edition is from 2013, so while the recipes are classic, there may be fewer modern twists. Used copies are available in good condition, making it a budget-friendly choice for those interested in a thorough introduction to Vietnamese cooking. This book is a strong pick for anyone wanting to explore authentic recipes with some cultural background, though casual cooks looking for very quick or simple meals might find some recipes require intermediate cooking skills.

The Little Viet Kitchen: Over 100 authentic and delicious Vietnamese recipes offers a comprehensive collection of dishes that bring the vibrant flavors of Vietnam into your kitchen. One of its standout strengths is the authenticity of its recipes, ensuring that you get a genuine taste of Vietnamese cuisine. The variety in recipes is impressive, covering different kinds of meals from appetizers to desserts, appealing to both beginners and experienced cooks.

The book provides clear instructions and includes notes on the cultural significance of various dishes, enriching your cooking experience with valuable insights into Vietnamese traditions. Visual appeal is another high point, with beautiful photography that not only makes the dishes look appetizing but also helps in understanding the final presentation of the food.

Ingredient accessibility might be a challenge for some, as certain traditional Vietnamese ingredients may not be readily available in all grocery stores, requiring trips to specialty markets or online shopping. The skill level required is varied but leans slightly towards intermediate, which might be a bit daunting for very new cooks. The book is well-bound and presented in a durable hardcover format, making it a lasting addition to your kitchen library. This cookbook is a fantastic option for those looking to explore authentic Vietnamese cooking and learn more about the culture behind the food.