Best Middle Eastern Cooking, Food & Wine Books of 2025

The Mediterranean Dish is a highly anticipated cookbook from the creator of the popular website of the same name. With over 120 easy-to-follow, tested-to-perfection recipes, Suzy Karadsheh brings Mediterranean-inspired dishes to American kitchens using readily available ingredients. From spanakopita egg muffins to orange-cardamom olive oil cake, the book is packed with vibrant and delicious recipes that burst with flavor and spice. Suzy's charming authentic stories, stunning photography, and simple instructions make this cookbook a must-have for anyone looking to eat healthier food. The Mediterranean Dish is an excellent addition to any kitchen and a great way to explore the rich and complex traditions of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Jerusalem: A Cookbook is a stunning collection of 120 recipes that explores the diverse flavors of Jerusalem, reflecting the Muslim, Jewish, and Christian communities. Written by Yotam Ottolenghi and Sami Tamimi, both born in Jerusalem, this cookbook offers a unique cross-cultural perspective on the vibrant cuisine of their home city. From inventive vegetable dishes to sweet and rich desserts, Jerusalem presents a range of exciting recipes that reflect the city's rich history and diverse culture. This cookbook is a must-have for anyone who loves Mediterranean cooking and wants to explore the flavors of Jerusalem.

Bottom of the Pot: Persian Recipes and Stories is a heartwarming cookbook that takes readers on a journey of Persian cuisine and culture. Naz Deravian's personal essays and recipes are a beautiful tribute to her Iranian heritage, showcasing the flavors and aromas of traditional dishes while making them accessible to an American audience. With over 100 recipes, readers can explore the multi-hued canvas of a Persian meal, from hearty stews to fragrant rice dishes. The book also includes stunning photographs that capture the essence of Persian cooking. Overall, Bottom of the Pot is a must-have for anyone interested in exploring the rich and diverse world of Persian cuisine.

Sababa: Fresh, Sunny Flavors From My Israeli Kitchen: A Cookbook is a celebration of the diverse flavors of Israeli cuisine through the eyes of American food writer and expat, Adeena Sussman. The book features 125 recipes inspired by the culinary wonderland of Israel, using a variety of spices and ingredients, including tahini, sumac, and harissa. Sussman's passion for Israeli cuisine shines through her transporting storytelling, making Sababa a must-have for anyone interested in Middle Eastern cooking. This book is a timely addition to the current trend of craving spicy and bright flavors of Israeli cuisine.

Zahav: A World of Israeli Cooking by Michael Solomonov is an award-winning cookbook that brings the melting-pot cooking of Israel to American home kitchens. The book features little dishes called mezze, a majestic dome of Persian wedding rice, and a whole roasted lamb shoulder with pomegranate and chickpeas, among others. All dishes are brilliantly adapted to local and seasonal ingredients. Solomonov shares his story and his wide-ranging approach to Israeli cooking, making this book a great addition to any Middle Eastern cooking enthusiast's collection.

Baba's Kitchen: A Mediterranean Cookbook Memoir is a tribute to the author's Baba, who inspired the authentic and modern Mediterranean cuisine served at the restaurant. The book features the restaurant's fantastic food, its amazing patrons, and the author's family legacy. It is a great addition to any food and wine book collection, especially for those interested in Mediterranean cooking. The book is unique in its memoir-style format, which not only showcases the delicious recipes but also the sentimental value behind them. Overall, Baba's Kitchen is a heartwarming read that will make you appreciate the power of food and family.

Shabbat: Recipes and Rituals from My Table to Yours by Adeena Sussman is a collection of recipes that embody the spirit and pleasures of Shabbat. The author shares her love for the traditional Jewish day of rest and how it has been practiced all over the world and throughout history. The book features easy-to-follow recipes for mains, sides, salads, desserts, and condiments that are perfect for the Sabbath. It also includes a rich portrait of Shabbat in Israel and the kitchens and traditions of local cooks who have shared their most beloved recipes. Overall, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to embrace the delights of Shabbat cooking.

Together: Our Community Cookbook is a beautiful tribute to the power of food to bring people together. The book showcases over 50 recipes from the women of the Hubb Community Kitchen in West London, who came together to cook for their families and neighbors in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire. The recipes, passed down over generations, offer a glimpse into the history, culture, and family traditions of the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and Eastern Mediterranean. The book is not only a celebration of life, friendship, and togetherness but also a way to support the community as a portion of the proceeds will go towards strengthening lives and communities through cooking.

Eating Out Loud: Bold Middle Eastern Flavors for All Day, Every Day: A Cookbook by Eden Grinshpan is a delightful collection of over 100 fresh and flavorful recipes. The author's Israeli heritage and laid-back cooking style are reflected in every recipe, from the herbaceous yogurt-topped roasted broccoli to the juicy peach and tomato pita salad. The book is a perfect guide for those who love to cook and eat big, boisterous meals with their loved ones. The book is well-written, and the recipes are easy to follow. Eating Out Loud is a must-have for anyone who wants to explore the bold and exciting flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.

The Cook You Want to Be by Andy Baraghani is a must-have cookbook for anyone who wants to develop their own unique cooking style. With over 100 delicious recipes, Baraghani teaches home cooks how to maximize flavor in minimal time by using unexpected flavor combinations and techniques. The book features stunning photographs and essays throughout, sharing Baraghani's convictions and lessons to live by. From quick meals for busy weeknights to meals that will impress dinner guests, this cookbook has it all. Overall, The Cook You Want to Be is an exceptional cookbook that will inspire cooks of all levels to experiment with new flavors and techniques.