12 Best Mexican Cookbooks & Recipe Books

Are you tired of bland and uninspiring meals?

Do you find yourself struggling to add a touch of Mexican flavor to your dishes?

Imagine being able to create authentic and mouthwatering Mexican dishes right in your own kitchen.

With our carefully selected collection of Mexican cookbooks, you’ll unlock the secrets of traditional recipes, spices, and techniques that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico.

Say goodbye to dull meals and embrace the flavors of Mexico with our handpicked selection of Mexican cookbooks.

Top 12 Mexican Cookbooks

Here is the list of Mexican Cookbooks

  • Mexico: The Cookbook by Margarita Carrillo Arronte – Best Overall
  • Mi Cocina by Rick Martínez – Editor’s Choice
  • Oaxaca by the Lopez family – Best for Traditional Cuisine
  • The Mexican Vegetarian Cookbook by Margarita Carrillo Arronte – Best for Vegetarians
  • Treasures of the Mexican Table by Pati Jinich – Best for Authentic Recipes
  • Tu Casa Mi Casa by Enrique Olvera – Best for Home Cooking
  • The Mexican Home Kitchen by Mely Martínez – Best for Home-Style Recipes
  • Meat-free Mexican: Vibrant Vegetarian Recipes by Thomasina Miers – Best for Vegans and Vegetarians
  • The Latin American Cookbook’ by Nicholas Gill and Virgilio Martínez Véliz- Best for Regional Cooking
  • Comida Mexicana: Snacks, tacos, tortas, tamales & desserts’ by Rosa Cienfuegos – Best for Street Food
  • My Mexico City Kitchen: Recipes and Convictions’ by Gabriela Cámara and Malena Watrous – Best for Mexico City Cuisine
  • Frida’s Fiestas: Recipes & Reminiscences of Life with Frida Kahlo’ by Marie-Pierre Colle – Best for Art Lovers

Mexico The Cookbook by Margarita Carrillo Arronte

Margarita Carrillo Arronte’s “Mexico: The Cookbook” is a culinary masterpiece.

With a history spanning over 9,000 years, Mexican cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, and this book captures its essence brilliantly.

Boasting over 700 authentic recipes, it’s a celebration of aromatic ingredients, vibrant presentations, and bold combinations.

From tamales and fajitas to unique delights like cactus salad and blue crab soup, every dish tells a story.

The book’s structure, organized by food type, makes it a breeze to navigate.

And it’s not just a recipe collection; it’s a journey through Mexico’s culinary heritage.

Carrillo Arronte’s expertise shines, making it evident why she’s a global ambassador for Mexican cuisine.

This isn’t just a cookbook; it’s a tribute to a nation’s gastronomic soul.

And for those passionate about genuine Mexican flavors, it’s a must-have. Chef’s kiss.

‘Mi Cocina’ by Rick Martínez

Rick Martínez’s “Mi Cocina” is more than just a cookbook.

It’s a vivid journey through the heart of Mexico, capturing the essence of its diverse culinary landscape.

The book is a reflection of Martínez’s personal and profound exploration of his roots, intertwined with his experiences traveling the vast terrains of Mexico.

Each recipe tells a story, from the rich, deep-colored mole that’s a testament to the complexity and depth of Mexican flavors, to the tacos capeados, a delightful dance of textures and tastes.

The book isn’t just about food; it’s about understanding and appreciating the culture, traditions, and history that shape these dishes.

The vibrant imagery and heartfelt narratives make “Mi Cocina” a sensory delight, transporting readers straight to the bustling streets and serene landscapes of Mexico.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a masterclass in Mexican cuisine.

‘Oaxaca’ by the Lopez family

Oaxaca, both a city and a state in Mexico, is the heart of Mexican gastronomy.

The Lopez family, founders of the renowned Guelaguetza restaurant in Los Angeles, have poured their passion and knowledge into this book.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a journey.

From authentic salsas to moles, the recipes radiate warmth, reminiscent of the sun-kissed chiles of Oaxaca.

Imagine savoring Chicken in a Creamy Chipotle Sauce or indulging in a Layered Chocolate and Flan Cake.

This isn’t just food; it’s an experience.

A celebration of tradition, authenticity, and love.

And for those who’ve dreamt of visiting Oaxaca, this book is your ticket.

Grab your copy and let your taste buds travel!

The Mexican Vegetarian Cookbook by Margarita Carrillo Arronte

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a journey through Mexico’s diverse regions, showcasing the prowess of maestras in crafting dishes where vegetables and herbs shine.

From tamales and enchiladas to Oaxacan Mushroom Turnovers and Chihuahuan Patron’s Pecan Soup, the recipes are a testament to Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.

The book also delves into the ancient cultivation of corn, beans, and peppers, highlighting them as the stars in many dishes.

And for those with a sweet tooth?

A showstopper cake with sliced figs over whipped cream and meringues awaits.

This cookbook brilliantly transforms vegetable bounties into sophisticated cuisines, making it deserving of the “Best for Vegetarians” award.

‘Treasures of the Mexican Table’ by Pati Jinich

“Pati’s Mexican Table”, unveils over 150 iconic dishes in her cookbook, capturing the essence of Mexico’s culinary heritage.

From birria to salsa macha, these recipes span generations, with many being regional gems, while others have taken the nation by storm.

Each dish is a classic, narrated in Pati’s warm, relatable style.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a journey through Mexico’s gastronomic treasures.

And guess what? Every recipe has been tested to perfection in Pati’s kitchen.

Dive into this treasure trove and let your taste buds dance!

‘Tu Casa Mi Casa’ by Enrique Olvera

“Tu Casa Mi Casa” by Enrique Olvera is a gem for anyone keen on Mexican cuisine.

Olvera, a celebrated chef, offers a delightful mix of recipes, from the simple chicken tinga to the more intricate banana-leaf fish.

The book feels like a peek into the laid-back dinners of Mexico’s top chefs.

It’s not just about recipes; it’s a deep dive into techniques, from judging masa consistency to crafting the perfect tortilla.

And the salsa verde? A burst of flavors so simple yet profound.

This isn’t just a cookbook; it’s a journey into the heart of Mexican home cooking.

A must-have for both beginners and seasoned chefs.

‘The Mexican Home Kitchen’ by Mely Martínez

Mely Martínez’s debut cookbook, “The Mexican Home Kitchen,” captures the heart and soul of traditional Mexican cuisine.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s an invitation into the kitchens of Mexican mamas and abuelitas.

From the Pollo a la Veracruzana, a symphony of flavors with olives, capers, and unexpected raisins, to the luscious Pastel de Tres Leches, every recipe tells a story.

It’s a journey, from Martínez’s childhood summers in Veracruz to her culinary explorations across Mexico.

This book isn’t just about recipes; it’s about memories, traditions, and the warmth of home.

And for those seeking authenticity?

Well, let’s just say Mely’s now everyone’s abuelita.

Meat-free Mexican: Vibrant Vegetarian Recipes by Thomasina Miers

Miers’ cookbook is a fiesta for the senses.

Imagine the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine, but with a twist—it’s all vegetarian.

The recipes? Authentic.

The flavors? Bold and tantalizing.

It’s like savoring the streets of Mexico City, minus the meat.

For those embracing a plant-based lifestyle, this book’s a gem.

And the award of ‘Best for Vegans and Vegetarians’? Spot on!

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s an invitation—to explore, to taste, and to fall in love with vegetarian Mexican cuisine all over again.

The Latin American Cookbook by Nicholas Gill and Virgilio Martínez Véliz

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s an exploration of Latin America’s vibrant food culture.

Often dubbed the “world’s pantry,” Latin America boasts a plethora of ingredients that have birthed dishes like arepas, empanadas, and tamales.

Virgilio, a celebrated chef, takes readers on a journey, showcasing recipes from Mexico’s tropical coasts to the icy islands of South America.

The book is a culmination of years of research, consulting with village elders, home cooks, and anthropologists.

It’s a comprehensive guide, spanning 22 countries and featuring 600 recipes.

Each recipe tells a story, reflecting the region’s rich history and diverse influences.

And the best part? Virgilio encourages readers to adapt recipes, capturing the spontaneity of Latin American cuisine.

So, if you’re looking to dive deep into Latin American food culture, this cookbook is your ticket.

And… it’s got my stamp of approval for “Best for Regional Cooking.”

Comida Mexicana: Snacks, tacos, tortas, tamales & desserts by Rosa Cienfuegos

A culinary gem that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Mexico City and the quaint corners of its villages.

This isn’t just another cookbook. It’s a journey.

Rosa doesn’t just give you recipes; she shares stories, traditions, and the very soul of Mexican street food.

Ever thought a taco could have soul?

Dive into these pages, and you’ll find it.

From snacks to tamales, every dish is an authentic experience, a punch of flavors that many have tried to replicate but few have mastered.

Ditch those imitations.

With this book, you’re tasting true Mexico.

And… it’s a treat!

My Mexico City Kitchen: Recipes and Convictions by Gabriela Cámara and Malena Watrous

Gabriela Camara’s “My Mexico City Kitchen” is a culinary masterpiece that’s both authentic and innovative.

It’s not just about recipes; it’s a journey through the bustling streets of Mexico City, with each dish telling a story.

From the signature Pescado a la Talla of her renowned restaurant Contramar to the rich moles that require patience and passion, every page is a testament to Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.

Some might yearn for more colorful visuals, but the essence?

Pure gold. It’s a sensory delight, reminiscent of my global gastronomic adventures.

Dive into this book, and you’ll be transported straight to the heart of Mexico, with flavors, aromas, and memories that linger long after.

Frida’s Fiestas by Marie-Pierre Colle

Bursting with authentic Mexican recipes, it’s a tantalizing blend of art and cuisine.

The book’s pages are adorned with vivid illustrations, capturing Frida’s essence and passion.

Each recipe tells a story, transporting you to Frida’s world.

From traditional dishes to innovative culinary creations, it’s a feast for both the eyes and palate.

A must-have for art aficionados with a penchant for flavors.

And for those who cherish the blend of culture, art, and gastronomy, this cookbook is a gem.

Final Say So!

Dive into the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine with our curated list of top Mexican cookbooks.

From the bustling streets of Mexico City to the serene landscapes of Oaxaca, these books are more than just recipes—they’re a journey.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, our handpicked selection promises to transport your taste buds straight to Mexico.

So, why wait?

Embrace the vibrant flavors, traditions, and stories of Mexico, and let your kitchen resonate with the soulful melodies of its culinary heritage.

Renee Searcy

Hi! I’m Renee. From a young age, I’ve been enchanted by the flavors, aromas, and the art of cooking. My journey has taken me from my family’s kitchen to working with some of the most talented chefs and culinary experts in Atlanta, GA, and beyond.

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