As March rolls in, bringing with it hints of spring and a renewed sense of adventure, what better time to delve into some captivating reads? Whether you’re craving culinary inspiration, heartfelt memoirs, or charming tales, this curated list of Asian diaspora food books has something for everyone.
Tiffy Cooks by Tiffy Chen
Indulge in the flavours of Asia with Tiffy Chen’s debut cookbook, where she shares 88 of her favourite family-style recipes. From classic Taiwanese breakfast sandwiches to savoury garlic and scallion lobster, Tiffy’s recipes are both comforting and adventurous, making them perfect for everyday cooking or special occasions.
Mango and Peppercorns: A Memoir of Food, an Unlikely Family, and the American Dream by Tung Nguyen and Kathy Manning
Embark on a journey of resilience and friendship with this powerful memoir from the acclaimed chefs behind Hy Vong Vietnamese restaurant in Miami. Through vivid storytelling and mouthwatering recipes, Nguyen and Manning’s tale of building a successful eatery against all odds is sure to inspire and captivate readers.
The Measure of My Powers: A Memoir of Food, Misery, and Paris by Jackie Kai Ellis
Join multi-disciplinary creator Jackie Kai Ellis on a soul-searching expedition through food and travel in this raw and honest memoir. From the streets of Paris to the hills of Tuscany to the heart of Kitsilano, Ellis’s narrative is a testament to the healing power of culinary exploration and self-discovery.
Sohn-mat: Recipes and Flavors of Korean Home Cooking by Monica Lee
Unlock the secrets of Korean cuisine with Chef Monica Lee’s guide to intuitive cooking. From banchan to bibimbap, Lee’s recipes are a celebration of traditional flavours and modern techniques, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned food enthusiasts.
Lessons In Fusion: A Novel by Primrose Madayag Knazan
This fiction novel follows Sarah, a half-Filipinx, half-Jewish Canadian who is invited to compete on the fictional competition, Cyber Chef during the pandemic’s peak. Sarah’s Baba-inspired recipes fail to impress. Forced to delve into her Filipinx roots, Sarah, raised Jewish, grapples with her cultural identity, seeking to understand her mother’s choices and the essence of fusion.
Anni Dreams of Biryani by Namita Moolani Mehra
Experience the magic of biryani through the eyes of Anni, a young girl determined to uncover the secret recipe from her uncle, who makes the best biryani. With delightful illustrations and a heartwarming story, this charming tale is a celebration of food, friendship, and the joy of culinary discovery.
Whether you’re craving culinary adventures, heartfelt memoirs, or charming tales, these six Asian diaspora food books are sure to add a touch of flavour to your March reading list. So grab a cosy blanket, brew a cup of tea, and embark on a literary journey that will tantalise your taste buds and warm your heart.
See also: Best books about food and identity by Asian authors
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