10 Best Vietnamese Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

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.

The Pho Cookbook: Easy to Adventurous Recipes for Vietnam's Favorite Soup and Noodles offers a delightful exploration of Vietnam's beloved pho. It provides a good variety of recipes, ranging from simple, everyday versions to more adventurous takes, catering to different skill levels. This makes it accessible to both beginners and more experienced cooks. The authenticity of the recipes is a strong point, with the author showcasing traditional techniques and ingredients that capture the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. However, some ingredients might be harder to find depending on your location, which could be a drawback for some users.

The book provides valuable cultural insights, giving readers a deeper understanding of pho's significance in Vietnamese culture. Visually, the book is appealing with its illustrated edition, featuring vibrant and mouth-watering photos that complement the recipes. Weighing 2.31 pounds and with dimensions of 8.3 x 0.7 x 9.3 inches, it is a substantial hardcover book that feels durable and well-made. Published by Ten Speed Press in English, it’s a reliable resource for anyone looking to master the art of pho.

While it may not cover the entire spectrum of Vietnamese cuisine, it is a focused and well-crafted guide for pho enthusiasts.

This Vietnamese cookbook, 'Vietnamese: Simple Vietnamese Food to Cook at Home,' is a well-rounded guide for anyone looking to explore the culinary traditions of Vietnam. The book offers a variety of recipes that cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The authenticity of the recipes stands out, allowing readers to experience true Vietnamese flavors in their kitchen. Ingredient accessibility is reasonable, with many recipes using ingredients that can be found in most supermarkets, although some may require a trip to a specialty store.

The skill level required is moderate, making it a good fit for home cooks with some experience in the kitchen, though beginners might find a few recipes challenging. The cookbook also provides cultural insights, giving readers a deeper understanding of Vietnamese cuisine and its significance. Visually, the book is appealing, with beautiful photography that showcases the dishes and enhances the overall experience.

However, one downside is the book's weight and size, which might make it less convenient to handle while cooking. All in all, it is a valuable addition to the collection of anyone interested in Vietnamese cooking, offering both delicious recipes and cultural enrichment.