Must-Have Cookbooks written by Black Women (updated)

Cooking and coming together over food has always been at the forefront of Black culture and African American history. Historically, even with limited ingredients, Black women and Black people as a whole, have always found a way to create culinary magic out of what some may have considered scraps. In families, recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, sometimes just on a notecard or verbally, long before we ever had traditional cookbooks.

If you’re interested in learning more about the culinary history of Black and African American cuisine that goes far beyond Soul Food, I suggest watching the Netflix Docu-Series: “High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America”.

In honor of Black History Month, and everyday Black Excellence I’d like to highlight and show some love to the women whose cookbooks have saved me from hours of indecision and keep me inspired to continue cooking and creating, in the kitchen.  From soul food, farm to table, international to desserts, these books have got you covered.

SHOP cOOKBOOKS BY BLACK WOMEN

Some people buy cookbooks just to read, with no intention of trying the recipes. There are those who say they would cook if they had the time or the skills, but since they don’t, they delight in reading what serious cooks are able to create. Only a few readers buy cookbooks to really cook the recipes. If this book finds its way into the hands of bold, adventurous people, courageous enough to actually get into the kitchen and rattle the pots and pans, I will be very happy.
— - Maya Angelou ( Intro from " Great Cooking All Day Long" )

Here are the must-have cookbooks written by black women, new and old, to add to your collection.

International

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Dessert

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Health Conscious

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food health and happiness oprah winfrey

Traditional

Everyday Cooking