Best Vegan Cookbooks for Beginners
If you’re new to vegan cooking, the thought of transforming your kitchen habits and learning a new way of preparing meals can feel overwhelming. But fear not—vegan cookbooks designed for beginners can make the transition to a plant-based lifestyle enjoyable, delicious, and approachable. Whether you’re looking for easy recipes, meal prep ideas, or a better understanding of vegan ingredients, the right cookbook can become your go-to resource.
This guide introduces the best vegan cookbooks for beginners, highlighting their unique features, who they’re best suited for, and why they’re worth adding to your collection. Each book is available on Amazon, highly rated, and loved by home cooks worldwide.
1. The Plant-Based Cookbook for Beginners
Author: Gabriel Miller
Best For: Those looking for simple, no-fuss recipes and tips for starting a vegan lifestyle.
This cookbook is perfect for beginners who want to ease into plant-based eating without feeling overwhelmed. It provides 75 easy-to-follow recipes that use everyday ingredients you likely already have at home. The book also includes practical tips for transitioning to a vegan diet, shopping lists, and meal plans.
Standout Recipes:
- Sweet Potato Tacos
- Creamy Mushroom Risotto
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Why You’ll Love It:
- Focuses on whole, unprocessed foods.
- Beginner-friendly with accessible ingredients.
Recommended Product:
The Plant-Based Cookbook for Beginners on Amazon
2. Thug Kitchen: Eat Like You Give a Fck*
Authors: Thug Kitchen
Best For: Beginners who love bold flavors and a little humor in the kitchen.
This New York Times bestseller takes a fun, irreverent approach to vegan cooking. The recipes are creative, straightforward, and packed with flavor. It’s ideal for anyone who might be skeptical about veganism and wants proof that plant-based food can be delicious and satisfying.
Standout Recipes:
- Roasted Beer and Lime Cauliflower Tacos
- Pumpkin Chili
- Peanut Butter and Banana Muffins
Why You’ll Love It:
- A humorous tone that makes cooking fun.
- Perfect for hearty, flavorful meals.
Recommended Product:
Thug Kitchen on Amazon
3. Forks Over Knives: The Cookbook
Authors: Del Sroufe
Best For: Those focused on health and looking for oil-free, whole-food recipes.
Based on the revolutionary documentary Forks Over Knives, this cookbook provides over 300 recipes designed to promote optimal health. It’s a must-have for anyone interested in whole-food, plant-based eating with a focus on heart health and longevity.
Standout Recipes:
- Baked Ziti with Cashew Cheese
- Thai Vegetable Curry
- Blueberry Oat Breakfast Muffins
Why You’ll Love It:
- Comprehensive collection of healthy, oil-free recipes.
- Great for those seeking to prevent or reverse chronic diseases through diet.
Recommended Product:
Forks Over Knives Cookbook on Amazon
4. Vegan for Everybody
Author: America’s Test Kitchen
Best For: Beginners who want foolproof recipes tested to perfection.
This cookbook is brought to you by America’s Test Kitchen, known for their meticulous recipe testing. It features 200 plant-based recipes that work every time, making it perfect for those who value reliability and consistency in the kitchen.
Standout Recipes:
- Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
- Smoky Black Bean Burgers
- Coconut Cream Pie
Why You’ll Love It:
- Detailed instructions and cooking tips.
- Ideal for building confidence in the kitchen.
Recommended Product:
Vegan for Everybody on Amazon
5. The Vegan Instant Pot Cookbook
Author: Nisha Vora
Best For: Beginners who love their Instant Pot and want quick, one-pot meals.
This cookbook is a lifesaver for busy beginners who own an Instant Pot. Nisha Vora provides 90 flavorful vegan recipes tailored to this versatile kitchen appliance, from hearty stews to creamy desserts.
Standout Recipes:
- Cauliflower Tikka Masala
- Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos
- Salted Chocolate Pots de Crème
Why You’ll Love It:
- Perfect for quick, hassle-free cooking.
- Includes a guide to using your Instant Pot for vegan recipes.
Recommended Product:
The Vegan Instant Pot Cookbook on Amazon
6. Isa Does It: Amazingly Easy, Wildly Delicious Vegan Recipes for Every Day of the Week
Author: Isa Chandra Moskowitz
Best For: Beginners who want creative yet easy-to-make meals.
Isa Chandra Moskowitz is a legend in the vegan cooking world, and this book lives up to her reputation. With over 150 recipes, she makes vegan cooking approachable, creative, and downright fun. The dishes are comforting, full of flavor, and ideal for weeknight dinners.
Standout Recipes:
- Nirvana Enchilada Casserole
- Sweet Potato Red Curry Soup
- Chocolate Zucchini Muffins
Why You’ll Love It:
- Recipes are simple but impressive.
- Great for meal prep and batch cooking.
Recommended Product:
Isa Does It on Amazon
7. The Simply Vegan Cookbook
Author: Dustin Harder
Best For: Beginners seeking recipes with minimal ingredients and prep time.
This cookbook is perfect for those who want simple, budget-friendly vegan meals. With 150 recipes requiring fewer than 30 minutes or 10 ingredients, it’s ideal for those with busy schedules.
Standout Recipes:
- Chickpea Noodle Soup
- Barbecue Lentil Sloppy Joes
- No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
Why You’ll Love It:
- Focuses on minimal ingredients and effort.
- Includes meal plans and grocery shopping tips.
Recommended Product:
The Simply Vegan Cookbook on Amazon
8. The Vegan Starter Kit
Author: Neal Barnard, MD
Best For: Beginners interested in the health benefits of veganism.
Dr. Neal Barnard’s book is a mix of science-backed advice and simple recipes. It’s great for those who want to understand the health aspects of veganism while learning how to prepare easy, nutritious meals.
Standout Recipes:
- Vegetable Stir-Fry
- Creamy Potato Soup
- Sweet Potato Burgers
Why You’ll Love It:
- Combines educational content with recipes.
- Focuses on the health benefits of vegan eating.
Recommended Product:
The Vegan Starter Kit on Amazon
9. Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking
Author: Dana Shultz
Best For: Busy beginners who want fast and flavorful recipes.
Known for her popular blog, Dana Shultz’s cookbook is full of quick, easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor. Most recipes require 10 ingredients or less, one bowl, or 30 minutes or less to prepare.
Standout Recipes:
- 30-Minute Portobello Fajitas
- Spaghetti Squash Lasagna
- Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
Why You’ll Love It:
- Ideal for time-strapped cooks.
- Offers a variety of gluten-free options.
Recommended Product:
Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking on Amazon
10. Sweet Potato Soul: 100 Easy Vegan Recipes for the Southern Flavors of Smoke, Sugar, Spice, and Soul
Author: Jenné Claiborne
Best For: Beginners who crave comforting, soulful flavors.
Jenné Claiborne brings Southern charm to plant-based cooking with 100 creative recipes. From breakfasts to desserts, this book is perfect for those who love hearty, flavorful dishes with a twist.
Standout Recipes:
- Sweet Potato and Red Bean Hash
- Coconut Collard Salad
- Pecan Pie Bars
Why You’ll Love It:
- Focuses on comforting, soulful recipes.
- Great for entertaining and family-style meals.
Recommended Product:
Sweet Potato Soul on Amazon
How to Choose the Right Vegan Cookbook for You
When picking a vegan cookbook as a beginner, consider the following:
- Simplicity: Look for books with easy-to-follow recipes and accessible ingredients.
- Focus: Choose a cookbook that aligns with your interests, like health, meal prep, or international flavors.
- Variety: Opt for a book that covers a range of meals, from breakfast to dessert.
Conclusion
The best vegan cookbooks for beginners not only teach you how to prepare plant-based meals but also inspire confidence and creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re drawn to bold flavors, health-focused dishes, or quick and easy recipes, the cookbooks in this guide offer something for everyone.
With these resources and a bit of practice, you’ll soon find that vegan cooking is not only simple but also deeply satisfying. Grab a cookbook, stock your pantry with essentials, and get ready to explore the delicious world of plant-based cuisine!