8 Best Family Iraqi Cookbooks & Recipe Books

Facing a problem finding authentic Iraqi recipes?

You’re not alone.

We’ve all been there, scrolling endlessly for that perfect dish.

It’s frustrating, right?

But hey, don’t worry.

Here’s the deal – family Iraqi cookbooks!

This treasure trove is packed with traditional, mouth-watering recipes.

They’re simple, easy to follow, and sure to bring the taste of Iraq to your dinner table.

So why wait, let’s start cooking.

Your taste buds are in for a treat!

Top 8 Family Iraqi Cookbooks

Here is the list of Family Iraqi Cookbooks

  • “The Iraqi Family Cookbook” by Kay Karim – Best Overall
  • “The Iraqi Cookbook” – Editor’s Choice
  • “Mama Malika’s Iraqi Cookbook: English” by Malika K Muhammad – Best for Authenticity
  • The Middle Eastern Kitchen Cookbook by Rukmini Iyer – Best for Variety
  • “An Iraqi Cookbook: 1001 Recipes from the Land of 1001 Nights (Volume 1)” by Sabina Hanlon Saib – Best for Traditional Recipes
  • “Delights from the Garden of Eden: A Cookbook and a History of the Iraqi Cuisine” – Best for Historical Context
  • “The Vegan Iraqi Cookbook” – Best Vegan Option
  • “The Iraqi Table” by Raghad Al Safi – Best Modern Take

The Iraqi Family Cookbook by Kay Karim

Kay Karim’s “The Iraqi Family Cookbook” is a gem.

It’s like a journey through Iraq’s rich culinary landscape, capturing the essence of traditional dishes.

The recipes? Authentic.

The flavors? Bold and aromatic.

The techniques? Rooted in age-old traditions.

The book’s strength lies in its ability to transport readers to the bustling streets of Baghdad, with the scents of sumptuous stews and freshly baked bread wafting through the air.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a narrative of Iraq’s vibrant food culture.

And for someone like me, who’s tasted global cuisines, this one stands out.

A deserving winner of the ‘Best Overall’ title.

The Iraqi Cookbook by Lamees Ibrahim

Lamees Ibrahim has woven a colorful and vivid culinary tale.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a table book, a centerpiece of conversation.

While some say it’s an authentic treasure trove of Vegan Iraqi cooking, others feel it’s a gateway to the soul of Iraqi cuisine.

The recipes? Authentic to the core, as vouched for by native Iraqis.

Yet, like any culinary journey, there are moments of discovery and adaptation.

It’s not just about the dishes; it’s about the stories, the traditions, and the love poured into each recipe.

And… if you’re thinking of gifting it, well, it’s bound to make any culinary enthusiast’s day.

Mama Malika’s Iraqi Cookbook by Malika K Muhammad

A delightful journey through Iraq’s culinary landscape.

Every page? A testament to authenticity.

The recipes? They transport you straight to an Iraqi kitchen, where tradition meets taste.

The aroma of spices, the textures, the flavors?

All genuine.

Malika K Muhammad showcases not just recipes but the soul of Iraqi cuisine.

It’s no wonder it’s been awarded “Best for Authenticity”. If you’re seeking the real essence of Iraqi food, this book’s got your back.

The Middle Eastern Kitchen Cookbook by Rukmini Iyer

Bursting with diverse recipes, it’s a testament to the region’s rich gastronomic tapestry.

Each dish is a sensory journey, from the aromatic spices to the intricate presentation.

It’s evident that the creators poured heart and soul into curating a collection that’s both authentic and expansive.

Awarded “Best for Variety”, this cookbook is a must-have for anyone eager to delve into Middle Eastern cuisine.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, there’s something to tantalize every palate.

And… the flavors?

Simply unforgettable.

An Iraqi Cookbook by Sabina Hanlon Saib

This cookbook is a delightful journey.

Over 500 recipes, from the simplest soups to the most intricate desserts.

Sabina showcases how Iraqis have adapted recipes from various corners of the world, including a touch of English influence.

The heart of this book beats with authentic Iraqi flavors.

And the best part? Most recipes are straightforward, using ingredients you’d find in your local store.

A treasure for those who value authenticity and creativity in the kitchen.

And… it’s crowned as the “Best for Traditional Recipes” in my book.

Delights from the Garden of Eden by Nawal Nasrallah

“Delights from the Garden of Eden.” A culinary masterpiece, this cookbook offers more than just recipes.

It’s a journey through time, painting a vivid picture of Iraq’s rich culinary history.

The dishes? Authentic.

The techniques? Time-honored.

And the presentation? Pure artistry.

As an expert food critic, I’ve tasted global flavors, but this book? It’s a treasure trove of sensory delights.

The award of “Best for Historical Context” is well-deserved.

Every page whispers tales of ancient traditions, making it a must-have for those passionate about food history.

And for those curious?

Here’s where you can find it.

The Vegan Iraqi Cookbook by Lamees Ibrahim

Crafted by London-based Lamees Ibrahim, this book is more than just a collection of recipes.

She showcases the vegan facet of Iraqi cuisine, emphasizing unique flavors like pomegranate molasses, dried limes, and za’atar.

The cookbook isn’t just about food.

It’s about identity, heritage, and a longing for home.

Lamees’s mission? To let the world savor the essence of Iraq, beyond the narratives of war and destruction.

Through dishes like bamia and maqloobat bathinjan, she invites readers to experience the soul of Iraq.

The Iraqi Table by Raghad Al Safi

Raghad Al Safi’s “The Iraqi Table” is a culinary gem.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a celebration of Iraq’s vibrant culture and heritage.

Every recipe feels like a journey through the streets of Baghdad, with dishes that remain true to their roots.

What’s delightful is Raghad’s playful touch with the Iraqi dialect, like “zalata” over the standard Arabic “salata”. It’s a nod to the region’s uniqueness.

And if you’ve a penchant for Iranian or Turkish flavors, you’ll find familiar notes.

A must-have for every food lover’s shelf.

Final Say So!

Embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Iraq with these exceptional cookbooks.

From traditional dishes to modern takes, these treasures capture the essence of Iraqi cuisine.

Dive into the rich tapestry of flavors, techniques, and stories that make Iraqi food a global delight.

So, grab a cookbook, and let the adventure begin.

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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