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Celebrating Our Favorite Female Cookbook Authors

Lettuce Chefs Share their Must Read Cookbooks by Women

In honor of Women’s History Month, we asked a few Lettuce chefs to share their favorite cookbooks authored by women. Here are their picks:

Andrea Cote

First up, we have Sisters Emily and Melissa Elsen’s “The Four and Twenty Blackbirds Pie Book” which is Executive Pastry Chef Andrea Cote’s (RPM Restaurants) go-to cookbook for baking. With recipes organized by season and featuring unexpected ingredients, this book has something for everyone, not just pie lovers.

Janet Kirker

Chef and Managing Partner Janet Kirker’s (Beatrix Market) favorite cookbook is “Deep Run Roots: Stories & Recipes from My Corner of the South” by Vivian Howard. This cookbook not only features mouth-watering recipes but also tells the story of Vivian’s journey through the South and her connection to its produce and traditions.

Chef Juan Gutierrez

Executive Pastry Chef Juan Gutierrez’s (Miru and Tre Dita) pick  is “Hello, My Name is Ice Cream” by Chef Dana Cree. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in ice cream, as it not only features amazing recipes but also provides in-depth explanations on the science behind them.

CJ Jacobson

Chef Partner CJ Jacobson (Aba and Ema) recommends “The Zuni Cafe Cookbook” by Judy Rogers, which captures the essence of California cuisine with its romantic and flavorful recipes. The book is especially known for its confit nibbles that are sure to make your mouth water.

Justin Diglia

For Chef Partner Justin Diglia (Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab), it doesn’t get more iconic than “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” by Julia Child, Simone Beck, and Louisette Bertholle. Julia Child’s TV show and cookbook inspired a generation of chefs, and her classic French recipes continue to be a staple in kitchens around the world.

Max Robbins

Chef Max Robbins (The Oakville Grill & Cellar) discovered his favorite on a trip to Mexico City. “Rosetta” by Elena Reygadas, named after her renowned restaurant, is an ingredient-driven and thoughtful cookbook honoring tradition while remaining approachable and personal.

These women authors have not only made their mark in the culinary world but have also inspired and influenced some of our very own chefs. We hope you’ll check out these cookbooks and celebrate the amazing women who have contributed to the world of food!

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