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 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.

Vegan Vietnamese: Vibrant Plant-Based Recipes to Enjoy Every Day offers a fresh take on traditional Vietnamese cuisine by focusing exclusively on plant-based recipes. It provides a good variety of dishes, from familiar favorites to creative vegan twists, making it appealing for those looking to explore Vietnamese food without animal products. The recipes are designed to be approachable for home cooks, with clear instructions suitable for beginners and intermediate skill levels.

In terms of authenticity, the book respects Vietnamese flavors while adapting them to vegan needs, which may mean some traditional ingredients or techniques are altered or omitted. Ingredient accessibility is generally good, especially for those who have access to basic Asian groceries, but some specialized vegan substitutes might require a bit of extra searching. Cultural insights are present but not deeply extensive, offering enough background to appreciate the dishes without overwhelming the reader.

Visually, the book is inviting with colorful photos that showcase the vibrant nature of Vietnamese cuisine, helping users get inspired and understand the results they should expect. Although it may not cover every classic Vietnamese dish in its original form due to its vegan focus, this cookbook serves as an excellent resource for anyone interested in exploring Vietnamese flavors through a plant-based lens.