20 best books on relationship with food – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you looking for a new book that will change your relationship with food? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about the complex and fascinating connection between humans and the food we eat. From memoirs to cookbooks, these books offer unique perspectives on the way we nourish ourselves and the emotions tied to our eating habits. Whether you’re a foodie, a health enthusiast, or simply curious about the psychology behind our food choices, these relationship with food books are sure to captivate and inspire you.


Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat

by Samin Nosrat

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat is a captivating book on the intricate dance between our taste buds and the ingredients we use in our cooking. It’s not just a book about the relationship with food; it’s a culinary adventure that takes us on a journey through the four essential elements that make every dish truly remarkable.

The Omnivore’s Dilemma

by Michael Pollan

The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan is a captivating exploration of our intricate and complex connection with sustenance. This thought-provoking book delves deep into the intricate dance between humans and their nourishment, offering a fresh perspective on our relationship with food.

In Defense of Food

by Michael Pollan

In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan is a captivating book that delves into the intricate and often overlooked relationship with food. This thought-provoking masterpiece is not just another run-of-the-mill book on relationship with food, but rather a profound exploration of our connection to what we eat.

The Art of Eating

by M.F.K. Fisher

The Art of Eating by M.F.K. Fisher is a captivating book that delves deep into the intricate dance we have with food. It is not just another book about our relationship with food, but rather a profound exploration of the love affair we have with the sustenance that nourishes our bodies and souls.

The Food Lab

by J. Kenji López-Alt

The Food Lab by J. Kenji López-Alt is not just another cookbook; it’s a delightful journey into the realm of culinary exploration and understanding. Dubbed as the ultimate ‘food relationship’ book, it goes beyond mere recipes and dives deep into the science and art of cooking.

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle

by Barbara Kingsolver

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle is a captivating journey through the world of food and our connection to it. Barbara Kingsolver takes us on a whirlwind adventure as she documents her family’s year-long experiment of only eating locally grown food.

This tantalizing book explores our relationship with food in a way that will leave you inspired and awestruck. Kingsolver delves into the intricacies of sustainable agriculture, the beauty of growing your own food, and the joys of eating seasonally.

Through her eloquent prose, Kingsolver paints a vivid picture of the delicious flavors and aromas that can be found in locally sourced produce. She encourages us to reconnect with the land and the bountiful gifts it has to offer.

This captivating book is not just about the pleasures of eating, but also about the importance of supporting local farmers and nurturing our environment. Kingsolver reminds us that every bite we take has a story behind it, and by choosing to eat locally, we become part of that story.

If you’re looking for a thought-provoking and eye-opening book about our relationship with food, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle is a must-read. Kingsolver’s passion for sustainable agriculture and her rich storytelling will leave you with a new appreciation for the food on your plate.

Cooked: A Natural History of Transformation

by Michael Pollan

Cooked: A Natural History of Transformation by Michael Pollan is a captivating exploration of our intimate connection with food. This thought-provoking book delves into the fascinating and often overlooked relationship between humans and the act of preparing and consuming food.

The Third Plate

by Dan Barber

The Third Plate by Dan Barber is not your average book on the relationship with food. It goes beyond the usual discussions about sustainable farming and organic produce. Instead, Barber takes readers on a thought-provoking journey through the interconnectedness of our food system and how it impacts our health, the environment, and society as a whole.

The Flavor Bible

by Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg

The Flavor Bible by Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg is an absolute feast for the senses. This culinary masterpiece is not just a book about food, but a love letter to the art of flavor. It is a guide to creating harmonious and unforgettable dishes that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

More than just a cookbook, The Flavor Bible is a deep exploration into the intricate and complex relationship between ingredients. It is a book on the dance of flavors, the interplay of textures, and the symphony of aromas that make a meal truly memorable.

Imagine having a trusted companion by your side, whispering in your ear the perfect pairings for any ingredient you can think of. The Flavor Bible is that companion. With its extensive list of ingredients and suggested flavor combinations, this book is a treasure trove for both amateur and seasoned chefs.

Whether you’re a culinary adventurer looking to push the boundaries of your palate or a home cook seeking inspiration for your next family dinner, The Flavor Bible has something for everyone. It is a relationship with food book that will ignite your creativity and transform the way you think about cooking.

So, embark on a culinary journey and let The Flavor Bible be your guide. Discover new flavor profiles, experiment with unexpected pairings, and unlock the true potential of your dishes. This book on the relationship with food will take your cooking to new heights and leave you craving for more.

The Kitchen Counter Cooking School

by Kathleen Flinn

The Kitchen Counter Cooking School by Kathleen Flinn is a captivating book that delves into the fascinating world of our connection with food. It is not just another cookbook, but rather a transformative journey that explores our intimate relationship with the nourishment we consume.

The Botany of Desire

by Michael Pollan

The Botany of Desire by Michael Pollan is a captivating book that delves into our profound connection with the world of plants. Rather than simply being a book about our relationship with food, it is a fascinating exploration of how plants have shaped human desires and influenced our evolution. From the apple to the tulip, the potato to marijuana, Pollan weaves together history, science, and personal anecdotes to reveal the hidden desires and intricate relationships between humans and these botanical wonders. This thought-provoking and informative book invites readers to reexamine their own relationship with food and gain a deeper understanding of the powerful forces that shape our desires.

The Physiology of Taste

by Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin

The Physiology of Taste by Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin is a remarkable and delectable exploration of our fascinating connection with the art of eating. This renowned work, often referred to as the ultimate ‘book on our relationship with food,’ delves deep into the intricate and marvelous world of gastronomy.

The Raw and the Cooked

by Jim Harrison

The Raw and the Cooked by Jim Harrison is an exquisite culinary journey that explores the intricate dance between human beings and the nourishment they consume. This delectable masterpiece not only serves as a book on our deep connection with food, but also delves into the profound relationship we have with the sustenance that fuels our bodies and souls.

The Gastronomical Me

by M.F.K. Fisher

The Gastronomical Me is an extraordinary memoir that serves up a delectable exploration of one woman’s lifelong passion for food. In this captivating book on the intricate dance between our taste buds and emotions, M.F.K. Fisher invites readers to indulge in her sumptuous experiences and reflect on their own gastronomic relationships.

The Tummy Trilogy

by Calvin Trillin

The Tummy Trilogy by Calvin Trillin is a delectable feast for food enthusiasts and a must-read for anyone who adores the art of eating. This mouthwatering collection of essays takes readers on a culinary journey, exploring the author’s deep and passionate connection with all things edible.

Trillin’s writing is so vivid and evocative that it will leave your taste buds tingling and your stomach growling. Through his witty anecdotes and charming storytelling, he captures the essence of the human experience through the lens of food. This is not just a book about the pleasures of eating; it is a book that reveals the profound relationship between people and the sustenance that nourishes them.

Trillin’s prose is as rich and flavorful as the dishes he describes. From his hilarious quest for the perfect barbecue in American Fried, to his humorous musings on the various regional delicacies in Alice, Let’s Eat, to his soulful exploration of his own Jewish heritage in Third Helpings, this trilogy offers a diverse and satisfying literary feast.

Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted meal, The Tummy Trilogy will leave you craving more. Trillin’s unique blend of humor, insight, and culinary expertise makes this collection a true masterpiece. So grab a fork, sit back, and prepare to embark on a delicious journey through the pages of this relationship-with-food book.

The Man Who Ate Everything

by Jeffrey Steingarten

The Man Who Ate Everything by Jeffrey Steingarten is an extraordinary journey into the world of gastronomy. This fascinating book about our relationship with food explores Steingarten’s relentless pursuit of culinary knowledge, as he fearlessly tastes and critiques a wide range of dishes and ingredients.

Steingarten, a renowned food critic and Vogue magazine’s food editor, takes readers on a delightful adventure as he dives headfirst into the most controversial and unusual culinary experiences. From traveling to remote corners of the world to unravel the secrets of exotic cuisines, to conducting rigorous scientific experiments in his own kitchen, Steingarten’s insatiable curiosity knows no bounds.

Through his witty and insightful writing, Steingarten unveils the hidden depths of flavor, texture, and aroma that lie within every dish. He explores the science behind cooking techniques, dissects the origins of ingredients, and even delves into the psychology of taste. Whether he’s exploring the perfect roast chicken or unraveling the mysteries of truffles, Steingarten’s passion for food shines through on every page.

But this book is not just about the pleasures of eating. It delves into the complex relationship with food that we all have, exploring the cultural, historical, and personal significance of what we consume. Steingarten’s humorous anecdotes and personal reflections give readers a deeper understanding of how food connects us to our past, our present, and our sense of identity.

The Man Who Ate Everything is a delightful blend of culinary exploration, scientific inquiry, and personal storytelling. Whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or simply curious about the mysteries of the kitchen, this book will take you on a mouthwatering journey that will leave you hungry for more.

The Sweet Life in Paris

by David Lebovitz

The Sweet Life in Paris – Book Overview

The Sweet Life in Paris – Book Overview

Indulge in a delightful journey through the streets of Paris with David Lebovitz’s captivating memoir, The Sweet Life in Paris. This enchanting book offers a unique perspective on the remarkable dance between a person and their passion for food.

Lebovitz, a renowned pastry chef and cookbook author, takes us on an extraordinary adventure, sharing his experiences of adjusting to life in the City of Love and navigating the intricacies of French cuisine. But this isn’t just any ordinary cookbook or travel memoir; it is a heartfelt exploration of a romance that goes beyond traditional love stories.

Through his witty anecdotes and mouthwatering descriptions, Lebovitz invites us to join him on his quest for culinary perfection in the vibrant streets of Paris. As he ventures into bustling markets, charming patisseries, and cozy bistros, he skillfully weaves together a story that highlights the intricate affair he develops with French food.

Expect to be captivated by Lebovitz’s honest and humorous observations as he navigates the quirky customs, language barriers, and culinary traditions that make Paris so unique. From the art of perfectly buttered baguettes to the indulgent pleasures of French cheeses and wines, every page of this memoir is brimming with tantalizing details that will make your taste buds come alive.

Whether you’re a passionate foodie or simply someone who appreciates a well-told tale, The Sweet Life in Paris is an absolute treat. Lebovitz’s connection with food is palpable, and his ability to convey the joy, frustration, and love that comes with it makes this book an irresistible read.

Allow yourself to be transported to the charming streets of Paris, where every bite is a celebration and every meal is an opportunity to savor life’s simple pleasures. With The Sweet Life in Paris, David Lebovitz offers not just a book about a relationship with food, but an invitation to embrace

The United States of Arugula

by David Kamp

The United States of Arugula by David Kamp is a captivating exploration into the fascinating world of gastronomy. This book delves deep into the intricate and ever-evolving relationship between Americans and their beloved sustenance. But make no mistake, this is not just any ordinary book about our relationship with food – it is a thought-provoking journey that will leave you hungry for more.

The Language of Food

by Dan Jurafsky

The Language of Food by Dan Jurafsky is a fascinating exploration of the complex and often overlooked relationship between humans and the nourishment that sustains us. This captivating book delves into the diverse ways in which language shapes our understanding and experience of food, making it much more than just another mundane necessity.

Through extensive research and engaging anecdotes, Jurafsky uncovers the hidden stories behind our everyday meals, revealing the deep cultural, historical, and emotional connections we have with what we eat. His linguistic analysis unravels the intricate web of meanings embedded in culinary terms, shedding light on the social dynamics and power structures that underlie our food choices.

This thought-provoking book is not merely a dictionary of food-related words, but rather a rich tapestry of narratives that spans various cuisines, traditions, and time periods. Jurafsky skillfully weaves together the threads of language, history, and culture to offer a fresh perspective on the way we think about and relate to food. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a linguistics aficionado, or simply curious about the intricate ties between language and our culinary experiences, this book is sure to leave you hungry for more.

The Art of Simple Food

by Alice Waters

The Art of Simple Food by Alice Waters is a captivating book about nurturing a profound connection with the culinary world. It is more than just a cookbook; it is a guide to developing a deep and meaningful relationship with food. By emphasizing the significance of fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, Waters encourages readers to embrace simplicity in their cooking and appreciate the bounty of nature. This delightful read is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering tips, techniques, and recipes that will inspire anyone to embark on a journey to cultivate a harmonious and mindful relationship with food.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about relationship with food offer a diverse range of perspectives and insights into our complex connection with what we eat. Whether you’re seeking practical advice on healthy eating, personal memoirs that explore the emotional aspects of food, or thought-provoking analysis of our food systems, there’s a book on this list for you. So, grab a copy of one of these books, sit back, and embark on a journey that will deepen your understanding of the intricate relationship between food and ourselves.