Top Indian Curry Cookbook Picks for Every Level of Cuisine Enthusiast

Curry is a beloved and versatile cuisine that transcends borders and cultural lines. For those who wish to explore, master, and create their own curries, there are a plethora of great cookbooks to choose from. In this article, we will delve into some of the best Indian curry cookbooks, offering a range of styles, from traditional to modern, and suitable for beginners to seasoned chefs.

Curry Cooking for Professionals and Home Cooks

Many cooks look to top chefs and professionals for guidance. Here are some of the books that have captured the attention of both professionals and home cooks alike:

Atulasi Curries of the World: Offers an adventurous journey through various curries from around the globe, perfect for those seeking to expand their flavor horizons. Benares: Michelin Starred Cooking: A must-have for those inspired by the culinary prowess of Michelin-starred restaurants. This book brings the sophistication of fine dining into your kitchen. Too Many Cowboys Only One Indian: Sat Bains: A blend of modern techniques and traditional Indian flavors, this book is crafted by the mind behind acclaimed restaurant Sat Bains. Floyd Cardoz: Flavorwalla: Big Flavor. Bold Spices. A New Way to Cook the Foods You Love: Floyd Cardoz presents a unique approach to Indian cuisine, combining bold spices and familiar dishes in fresh and exciting ways. One Spice Two Spice: American Food Indian Flavors: This book delves into the fusion of American and Indian cuisine, offering a unique twist on traditional flavors.

Madhur Jaffrey Traditional Indian Cooking

Madhur Jaffrey is a culinary icon, often compared to Julia Child for Indian food. Her books are a treasure trove for anyone interested in traditional Indian curries:

Ultimate Curry Bible: India, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, South Africa, Kenya, Great Britain, Trinidad, Guyana, Japan: A comprehensive guide to curries from around the world, written with Madhur Jaffrey's expert guidance. Madhur Jaffrey's Best of Indian Cooking: A collection of some of her most beloved recipes, perfect for those who want to explore the rich culinary heritage of India.

Authentic Indian Cuisine through Time

For those who appreciate the historical and cultural depth of Indian cuisine, here are a few classic cookbook picks:

Amish O Niramish Ahar: Written by Pragyasundari Devi, the grand-niece of the renowned poet Rabindranath Tagore, this early 20th-century book is a valuable resource, though only available in Bengali. Pak Pranali: Published by Bipradas Mukhopadhyay in 1886, this 6-volume set is an ancient text, also in Bengali. Both books are available in PDF form online. Cookbooks by Tarla Dalal: With her over 100 books, Tarla Dalal is a pillar of Indian culinary literature. Her recipes are authentic and precise, covering a wide range of dishes and spices.

Expert Recommendations for Beginners and Enthusiasts

For those new to the world of curries, here are some books that provide a solid foundation:

Phillips' Indian Cooking Book (1980s): A textbook for culinary students in India during the 1980s, offering a rigorous and comprehensive guide to the basics of Indian cuisine. The New Curry Secret: Mouthwatering Indian Restaurant Dishes to Cook at Home: Ideal for U.K. curry enthusiasts, this book offers authentic and mouth-watering recipes for home cooking.

Additional Recommendations

For those interested in specific types of Indian cuisine, these books might serve as a guide:

For Kebabs: Although not specifically dedicated to kebabs, many Indian cookbooks include exquisite recipes that can be adapted for this dish. For Rotis and Naans: Rotis and Naans are staple Indian breads, and there are plenty of cookbooks that include detailed instructions for making them from scratch. For Vegetarian Food in General: Many Indian cookbooks are vegetarian-friendly, providing a wide range of vegetarian dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Indian cuisine. For Hyderabadi Food: Hyderabadi cuisine is known for its rich and elaborate dishes, and there are cookbooks specifically dedicated to it, such as Hyderabadi Cuisine: Rich Flavors from the Nizams' Table. For Andhra Food: Andhra cuisine is relatively understudied, with some cookbooks that focus on the spicy and unique flavors of this region.

These cookbooks not only offer a wealth of recipes but also provide insights into the cultural significance and historical evolution of Indian cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner, there is a book that can guide you through the wonderful world of Indian curries.