As the weather changes, it’s the perfect time to get back into the kitchen. It doesn’t matter if you’re a novice, have reached pro level or just like to cook for fun—cooking and creating recipes can be a great stress reliever and way to connect with your circle. Plus, think of the promise of good food at the end of your hard work. Use the time as self-care or a bonding moment with you and someone special. To get you inspired, here are are five cookbooks by Black chefs and authors to check out. >> RELATED: Cooking Up Culture: How These Black Chefs Honor Their Roots
Son of a Southern Chef: Lazarus Lynch
Have a taste for some southern cooking with a twist? Dive into the world of Lazarus Lynch with his cookbook mixing southern classics, fashion influence and a good cocktail for any occasion. His penchant for storytelling will suck you in and wrap you in goodness. This is the perfect cookbook for the artsy type who likes to color outside the lines.
Black Girl Baking: Jerrelle Guy
Maybe you’re less of a chef and more of a baker (and let’s be honest, there is a difference). If you find yourself more likely to eat the batter out the bowl, pick up Jerrelle Guy’s experience inspired baking cookbook. This is sure to give your recipes that extra special touch and have you or your guests reminiscing on old times. “Black Girl Baking” is ideal for the creative who is always taking the nurturing role and helping dreams come true.
The Taste of Country Cooking: Edna Lewis
If you have true southern roots, Edna Lewis’ “The Taste of Country Cooking” might speak to your soul. With recipes inspired by building community and creating timeless meals, this cookbook is sure to bring anyone together. This cookbook is right for the traditional “boss” type: you like to keep it classic, but you secretly know what you’re doing!
Vegetable Kingdom: Bryant Terry
Calling all vegans and vegetarians, this is your moment! Bryant Terry created this cookbook to help break the barriers around veganism and what it looks like in the Black community. This cookbook is organized by ingredients to help make your grocery store experience more efficient. It is definitely meant for the “day-planner” creative: you probably make a grocery list and have a system for your weekly meals. Now, you can have a cookbook that’s as organized as you.
Caribbean Potluck: Suzanna and Michelle Rousseau
Through the tales of Jamaica to Trinidad, the Rousseau sisters explore life, culture and food in this cookbook. Bursting with flavor and passion, it’s sure to introduce you to a new world or welcome you back to an old one. The Rousseau sisters wanted to infuse history and love of food. This journey will make the historical creative happy. Travel through the years and memories, and find recipes that speak to your logistic heart.
