Thai cuisine is a harmonious blend of flavors, from the aromatic allure of Thai basil to the complex depths of fish sauce and coconut milk. Whether you’re exploring green curry or sticky rice, these cookbooks capture the heart of Thailand’s regional cooking, offering a journey through authentic recipes, vibrant traditions, and classic Thai dishes. Here’s our curated list of the best Thai cookbooks to inspire your Thai cooking adventures, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef.
Jump to:
- Pok Pok: Food and Stories from the Streets, Homes, and Roadside Restaurants of Thailand by Andy Ricker
- Hot Thai Kitchen by Pailin Chongchitnant
- Thai Food by David Thompson
- Kin Thai: Modern Thai Recipes to Cook at Home by John Chantarasak
- Simple Thai Food: Classic Recipes from the Thai Home Kitchen by Leela Punyaratabandhu
- Flavors of the Southeast Asian Grill by Leela Punyaratabandhu
- Kiin by Nuit Regular
- Keo’s Thai Cuisine by Keo Sananikone
- Rosa’s Thai Cafe: The Cookbook by Saiphin Moore
- Honorable Mentions
- FAQ
- Tips for Thai Cooking
- More Suggestions
- Conclusion
Pok Pok: Food and Stories from the Streets, Homes, and Roadside Restaurants of Thailand by Andy Ricker
Andy Ricker’s Pok Pok is a tribute to the vibrant, flavorful world of Thai street food and regional cooking. Known for his acclaimed restaurant, Ricker dives deep into authentic recipes such as Chiang Mai sausage, green papaya salad, and night market-style skewers. The book also features stories about his culinary adventures in Thailand, making it as much a cultural exploration as a cookbook. With detailed instructions on sourcing ingredients like fish sauce and sticky rice, this book helps home cooks recreate the bold and complex flavors of Thailand.
Best for: Enthusiasts of Thai street food and those looking to explore Thailand’s diverse regional cuisines.
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Hot Thai Kitchen by Pailin Chongchitnant
In Hot Thai Kitchen, Pailin Chongchitnant, a beloved YouTube chef, demystifies Thai cooking for home cooks. She offers clear instructions on iconic dishes like green curry, pad kra pao, and tom yum soup while sharing cultural insights that deepen the appreciation of Thai cuisine. The book includes tips for sourcing hard-to-find ingredients, substitutions for what’s available in the United States, and explanations of essential cooking techniques. Pailin’s friendly tone and step-by-step guidance make this cookbook an excellent resource for beginners.
Best for: Beginners and intermediate cooks eager to learn authentic Thai cooking with practical guidance.
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Thai Food by David Thompson
David Thompson’s Thai Food is an iconic cookbook celebrated for its depth and detail. This hefty tome is part culinary encyclopedia, part recipe collection, with chapters that explore Thailand’s culinary history, culture, and regional differences. From classic recipes like massaman curry to intricate desserts, every dish is steeped in authenticity. The stunning photography and insightful stories make this a coffee table centerpiece and a definitive guide to Thai cooking.
Best for: Advanced cooks and food history enthusiasts seeking an in-depth exploration of Thai cuisine.
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Kin Thai: Modern Thai Recipes to Cook at Home by John Chantarasak
John Chantarasak’s Kin Thai offers a contemporary approach to Thai cooking. With recipes like tamarind-glazed pork ribs, spicy Thai basil stir-fry, and refreshing mango salads, this book balances tradition and innovation. Chantarasak emphasizes seasonal ingredients and creative techniques that breathe new life into familiar Thai flavors. The striking photography and modern twists make this a standout for anyone looking to elevate their Thai cooking repertoire.
Best for: Cooks who want modern interpretations of traditional Thai dishes.
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Simple Thai Food: Classic Recipes from the Thai Home Kitchen by Leela Punyaratabandhu
Leela Punyaratabandhu’s Simple Thai Food is perfect for home cooks who want authentic yet approachable recipes. This book showcases classic dishes like pad see ew, green curry, and mango sticky rice, breaking them down into manageable steps. Leela also includes personal anecdotes and tips for sourcing ingredients, helping readers connect with Thai cuisine on a deeper level. Her straightforward approach ensures that even novice cooks can create delicious, restaurant-quality meals at home.
Best for: Home cooks looking for easy, reliable recipes to recreate Thai classics.
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Flavors of the Southeast Asian Grill by Leela Punyaratabandhu
Leela’s second book shifts the focus to grilling, capturing the smoky, bold flavors of Thailand’s cook shops and street vendors. Recipes like grilled chicken satay, pork skewers, and charred eggplant salad celebrate the art of cooking over fire. With vibrant photography and detailed techniques, this book is a fantastic resource for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Best for: Fans of Thai street food and grilling aficionados who love bold, smoky flavors.
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Kiin by Nuit Regular
Nuit Regular’s Kiin is a heartfelt tribute to Northern Thai cuisine, featuring recipes like khao soi, larb, and sticky rice desserts. Each recipe is accompanied by personal stories and cultural insights, offering a glimpse into the traditions that shape this unique regional cuisine. The book’s stunning photography and attention to detail make it both inspiring and educational.
Best for: Exploring the rich culinary traditions of Northern Thailand with an emphasis on cultural storytelling.
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Keo’s Thai Cuisine by Keo Sananikone
A beloved classic, Keo’s Thai Cuisine makes Thai cooking accessible to all. With straightforward recipes and clear instructions, it’s a great introduction to dishes like red curry, tom kha gai, and pad Thai. The cookbook also includes helpful tips on ingredient sourcing and menu planning, making it a reliable resource for anyone new to Thai food.
Best for: Beginners who want easy-to-follow recipes for classic Thai dishes.
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Rosa’s Thai Cafe: The Cookbook by Saiphin Moore
Inspired by her popular London restaurant, Saiphin Moore’s Rosa’s Thai Cafe brings the flavors of Thai street food into your kitchen. Recipes range from comforting curries to vibrant salads, with an emphasis on bold, fresh flavors. The book’s approachable tone and straightforward instructions make it a great choice for home cooks who want to recreate restaurant-quality dishes with ease.
Best for: Fans of Thai street food who enjoy simple yet flavor-packed recipes.
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Honorable Mentions
- Night + Market by Kris Yenbamroong: An edgy take on Thai street food with a modern flair.
- The Complete Thai Cookbook by Gloria Shaw: A comprehensive guide for Thai home kitchens.
- The Pepper Thai Cookbook by Pepper Teigan: Perfect for family-friendly Thai dishes, written by Chrissy Teigan’s mom
FAQ
A great Thai cookbook should include authentic recipes, detailed instructions, and helpful tips for sourcing ingredients like fish sauce, coconut milk, and Thai basil. It should also reflect the vibrant traditions and regional cooking styles of Thailand, offering a mix of classic and modern dishes.
Yes, many Thai cookbooks cater to beginners. Titles like Hot Thai Kitchen by Pailin Chongchitnant and Simple Thai Food by Leela Punyaratabandhu provide clear instructions, simple recipes, and accessible ingredient lists that are perfect for first-time Thai cooks.
While authentic Thai flavors rely on specific ingredients like fish sauce, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves, many cookbooks offer substitutions. However, sourcing authentic ingredients from an Asian market or online can elevate the taste and authenticity of your dishes.
Thai Food by David Thompson is widely regarded as a definitive guide for experienced cooks. It dives deep into the history and complexity of Thai cuisine, offering traditional recipes that require advanced techniques and attention to detail.
Yes, cookbooks like Nuit Regular’s Kiin focus on Northern Thailand’s cuisine, while Real Thai by Nancie McDermott explores Thailand’s regional cooking. These books highlight the diversity of flavors across the country.
Absolutely! Books like Pok Pok by Andy Ricker and Rosa’s Thai Cafe by Saiphin Moore include recipes inspired by Thai street food, such as skewers, salads, and stir-fried noodles.
Many Thai recipes can be adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets by replacing fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan alternative. Some cookbooks also include specific sections for plant-based Thai dishes.
Yes, several Thai cookbooks include recipes for desserts like mango sticky rice, coconut custard, and pandan-flavored sweets. Books such as Hot Thai Kitchen and Simple Thai Food often feature dessert sections.
Consider your skill level, interests, and preferred style of cooking. Beginners might enjoy books with simple recipes like Simple Thai Food, while more adventurous cooks may prefer comprehensive guides like Thai Food or regional-focused books like Kiin.
Yes, books like Night + Market by Kris Yenbamroong offer Thai fusion recipes, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques and ingredients.
You can find essential Thai ingredients at Asian grocery stores, international sections of major supermarkets, or online retailers. Some cookbooks also provide guidance on sourcing ingredients or acceptable substitutions.
Yes, books like Keo’s Thai Cuisine often include menu suggestions to help you plan a Thai-inspired meal, whether it’s for a casual dinner or a special occasion.
Tips for Thai Cooking
- Source Ingredients: Look for authentic ingredients like fish sauce, coconut milk, and Thai basil to ensure vibrant flavors.
- Start Simple: Begin with easy Thai recipes, such as green curry or sticky rice, before tackling more complex dishes.
- Explore Regional Dishes: Expand your palate with recipes from Northern Thailand or classic Thai street food.
More Suggestions
Looking for cookbooks from other cultures? Check out our cultural cookbook reviews . Looking for a specific cuisine from Asia? We have Asian cookbook reviews as well.
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Turkuaz Kitchen Cookbook Review
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A Taste of the World: Celebrating Global Flavors
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A Kwanzaa Keepsake and Cookbook Review
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The Pho Cookbook Review
Conclusion
These cookbooks offer everything from simple Thai food to advanced recipes for dedicated enthusiasts. Whether you’re inspired by a night market in Chiang Mai or the flavors of a Thai restaurant in the United States, these guides will help you master the art of Thai cooking in your own kitchen.
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