Best Cookbooks of 2023, Memories of Nigeria, Cooking Through Grief

2023 has been a year of culinary exploration, personal reflection, and the comforting embrace of familiar flavors. In the world of cookbooks, we’ve witnessed stunning journeys of rediscovery, heartfelt explorations of grief, and vibrant celebrations of diverse cultures. 

Today, we weave together these threads, embarking on a journey through the pages of some of the year’s best cookbooks, evoking memories of Nigeria, and finding solace in the act of cooking through grief.

1. Yewande Komolafe’s ‘Crowded Kitchen’: A Culinary Homecoming to Nigeria

For Yewande Komolafe, food is a bridge connecting her present life in America to the vibrant memories of her childhood in Lagos, Nigeria. ‘Crowded Kitchen’ is more than just a cookbook; it’s a deeply personal narrative, a love letter to Nigerian flavors, and an invitation to share a meal at her crowded family table. Through evocative prose and stunning photography, Komolafe transports us to bustling Lagos markets, introduces us to the warmth of Nigerian hospitality, and guides us through the intricacies of dishes like jollof rice, puff-puff, and egusi soup. ‘Crowded Kitchen’ is a testament to the power of food to connect us to our roots and celebrate the beauty of cultural diversity.

2. Bee Wilson’s ‘The Secret of Cooking’: Finding Comfort in Rituals of the Kitchen

In the wake of personal loss, renowned food writer Bee Wilson turned to the familiar rhythms of the kitchen for slot online solace. ‘The Secret of Cooking’ is not a collection of elaborate recipes, but rather a meditation on the act of cooking itself. Wilson finds comfort in the repetitive tasks of chopping, stirring, and simmering, transforming them into a form of mindful practice. This beautifully written book is a testament to the therapeutic power of cooking, reminding us that even the simplest acts can offer solace and a sense of grounding during difficult times.

3. Suzanne Joskow’s ‘Community Plate’: Capturing the Stories Within Undocumented Cookbooks

Artist and curator Suzanne Joskow embarked on a unique mission: to collect and celebrate the cookbooks created by undocumented communities in the United States. ‘Community Plate’ is a poignant and powerful collection of recipes, stories, and family histories, offering a glimpse into the lives and traditions of people often rendered invisible. Through dishes like Salvadoran pupusas, Moroccan tagines, and Filipino adobo, Joskow’s book amplifies marginalized voices and celebrates the resilience of the human spirit.

4. ‘Nopalito’: Exploring the Vibrant Flavors of Mexican Vegetarian Cuisine

Culinary icons Diana Kennedy and Gabriela Cámara join forces in ‘Nopalito’, a stunning ode to the vibrant vegetarian cuisine of Mexico. From nopal cactus salads to fragrant moles and hearty stews, this book is a treasure trove of delicious and authentic recipes. Kennedy’s deep knowledge of Mexican food traditions is seamlessly woven with Cámara’s modern sensibilities, resulting in a collection that is both timeless and innovative. ‘Nopalito’ is a must-have for anyone seeking to broaden their culinary horizons and experience the magic of Mexican vegetarian cooking.

5. ‘Falastin’: A Celebration of Palestinian Cuisine and Culture

In ‘Falastin’, food writer Tamara Hijawi embarks on a personal journey to explore the rich culinary heritage of Palestine. Through generations-old recipes passed down from her family and encounters with Palestinian cooks across the globe, Hijawi paints a vibrant portrait of a cuisine often overshadowed by conflict. From fragrant makloubeh to delicate stuffed grape leaves, ‘Falastin’ is a celebration of resilience, resistance, and the enduring power of food to connect us to our roots.

Cooking Through Grief: A Personal Story

The act of cooking has always held a special significance for me. It’s a way to express creativity, nurture loved ones, and find solace in the familiar rhythms of the kitchen. But never has it been more meaningful than during a period of profound grief. When my world was turned upside down by the loss of a close friend, the kitchen became my refuge. The simple act of chopping vegetables, kneading dough, and simmering a pot of soup offered a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.