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  4. 10 Best Spanish Cookbooks UK 2024 | Rick Stein, José Pizarro and More
  • 10 Best Spanish Cookbooks UK 2024 | Rick Stein, José Pizarro and More 1
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10 Best Spanish Cookbooks UK 2024 | Rick Stein, José Pizarro and More

What’s not to love about Spain? The stunning weather, the vibrant cities, sipping a glass of sangria on a sun-baked beach... We could go on! It’s not surprising that Spain is one of the most visited destinations by UK holidaymakers, and that its delicious cuisine is one of the main attractions. 


To help you recreate that authentic fiesta atmosphere at home in these strange times of restricted travel, we’ve pulled together a list of the best Spanish cookbooks. We’ve included titles from chefs such as Omar Allibhoy and Jose Pizzaro to teach you your jamón from your padrón and your manchego from your gazpacho, and to discover there’s so much more to Spanish food than tapas! 

Last updated 26/03/2024
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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Spanish Cookbook in the UK – Buying Guide

From the region of Spain covered to the complexity of the recipes included, there’s a huge variety in the types of cookbook that you can buy. So let's have a look at things to consider when choosing the right cookbook for your kitchen shelf. 

1

Beginner or Pro: Choose a Book to Match Your Level

If you’re new to the world of Spanish cooking, it’s important that you don’t overstretch yourself so that your first cooking experience is both fun and successful. There are two main areas to consider here, which we have combined to note the levels for each of our recommendations. 

Consider Your Capability as a Cook

Consider Your Capability as a Cook

Whether you struggle to boil an egg or your food is borderline Cordon Bleu, it will benefit you in the long run if you’re aware of your own capabilities and ensure that the cookbook you buy is suitable. 


If you take on too much too soon it could be stressful and leave you feeling like you’ve not achieved what you wanted, and this can put you off cooking new things in the future. Looking through a few sample recipes will help you get a feel for the level, just keep it fun and relaxed – after all, cooking is meant to be a pleasure not a chore! 

Do You Know Your Spanish Flavours or Are You a Total Newbie?

Do You Know Your Spanish Flavours or Are You a Total Newbie?

As well as your general skill level, you should also consider how familiar you are with the flavours and cuisine of Spain. Some cookbooks will include more complex recipes and others low-fuss dishes to pull together in a jiffy, but either of these could still be a challenge for intermediate cooks with little Spanish cooking knowledge. 


If you’re in doubt as to what you want or if you're completely new to Spanish cooking, it may be advantageous to buy a book with a variety of different recipes of varying skill levels to give you an introduction to the cuisine, which you can then build on as you learn.

2

The Different Spanish Regions Offer a Huge Variety in Types of Food

The Different Spanish Regions Offer a Huge Variety in Types of Food

Central Spain, including Castilla and Madrid – this landlocked region is famous for its chorizo, manchego cheese, and pork and lamb roasted in wood-burning ovens. 


Southern Spain, including Andalucía and Murcia – another famous Spanish cuisine comes from this region, as tapas is believed to have originated in Seville. It's also famous for its jamón (air-dried ham), gazpacho, shellfish, and sherries. The influence of North Africa is also felt as spices are central to a lot of dishes. 


While most of the cookbooks on our list have recipes from all the Spanish regions, some books you come across will focus on the cuisine of a particular region, so double check the details of the book beforehand if there's a particular region you're interested in. 

3

What Do You Want to Prepare? Everyday Cooking and Entertaining Call for Different Recipes

What Do You Want to Prepare? Everyday Cooking and Entertaining Call for Different Recipes

If you’re wanting to introduce quick, everyday recipes into your weekly rotation, then recipe books focused more on entertaining or time-heavy dishes won’t be suitable for you. After all, as delicious as recipes that take lots of preparation and lots of ingredients are, you wouldn’t want to cook them every day! 


So, it’s absolutely worth reading the blurb on the book to make sure you’re buying a book with the types of recipes you need, whether that's for your next dinner party or an easy midweek meal.

4

Consider the Availability of Ingredients

Consider the Availability of Ingredients

There’s nothing worse than finding a recipe to recreate something delicious you had on holiday only to find you can’t buy some of the ingredients. Some recipes will call for more specialist ingredients that you may not be able to buy in your regular supermarket, and may take a bit of hunting down. 


To make sure you have everything on hand to create delicious and authentic dishes, it’s worth checking out a few of the book's recipes and doing your research to find out what you can buy in your local area – some may require a trip to a specialist shop or an online order.

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Top 10 Best Spanish Cookbooks in the UK

Armed with your new knowledge on how to choose a suitable Spanish cookbook for your needs, all that's left to do is pick one from our list! From artisan titles by revered chefs to books dedicated to the art of tapas, you'll have no problem finding a favourite or two. ¡Provecho!
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

José Pizarro

Spanish Flavours

José Pizarro Spanish Flavours 1

£16.99

Mid

A Detailed and Visually-Appealing Look at Regional Spanish Fare

2

Claudia Roden

The Food of Spain

Claudia Roden The Food of Spain 1

£20.99

Mid

A Beautiful Book of Recipes and Travelogue Covering the Whole of Spain

3

Monika Linton

Brindisa: The True Food of Spain

Monika Linton Brindisa: The True Food of Spain  1

£11.99

Low Mid

An Education on Authentic Spanish Cookery From a Restaurant Institution

4

Omar Allibhoy

Tapas Revolution

Omar Allibhoy  Tapas Revolution 1

£15.99

Mid

Simple, Delicious Tapas Without Too Many Specialist Ingredients

5

Penelope Casas

1000 Spanish Recipes

Penelope Casas 1000 Spanish Recipes 1

£22.99

High Mid

A Fantastic Collection of Recipes With Simplicity in Mind

6

Sam & Sam Clark

Moro: The Cookbook

Sam & Sam Clark Moro: The Cookbook 1

£18.05

Mid

Learn About Spain's History Through Its Foodie Influences

7

Rick Stein

Spain: 140 New Recipes Inspired by My Journey Off the Beaten Track

Rick Stein Spain: 140 New Recipes Inspired by My Journey Off the Beaten Track 1

£17.99

Mid

A Comprehensive Collection of Recipes From a Well Known Name

8

Colman Andrews

Catalan Cuisine: Europe's Last Great Culinary Secret

Colman Andrews Catalan Cuisine: Europe's Last Great Culinary Secret 1

£11.19

Low Mid

An Exploration of the Cuisine and Culture of One of Spain's Northern Regions

9

Hamlyn All Colour Cookery

200 Tapas & Spanish Dishes

Hamlyn All Colour Cookery 200 Tapas & Spanish Dishes 1

£4.54

Low

A Versatile Collection of Recipes to Get You Started

10

Marion Trutter

Culinaria Spain: A Celebration of Food and Tradition

Marion Trutter Culinaria Spain: A Celebration of Food and Tradition 1

£48.94

High

A Beautiful Spanish Food Compendium

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

José PizarroSpanish Flavours

Spanish Flavours 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£16.99
Mid
Reference price
£16.99
Mid

A Detailed and Visually-Appealing Look at Regional Spanish Fare

In this book, Pizarro takes a look at the regions of Spain and the exceptional local ingredients that make each area so special. The recipes in this book not only showcase Spanish flavours, but are also simple and quick to prepare, with no complicated techniques or ingredients that are difficult to get hold of.


There's even additional information included on how to swap out ingredients to suit your taste or what you have in the cupboard. It also includes lots of information on the different culinary regions of the country and some beautiful photography, making it practical as well as visually appealing. This book has achieved plenty of high praise, and it's easy to see why! 

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No.2

Claudia RodenThe Food of Spain

The Food of Spain 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£20.99
Mid
Reference price
£20.99
Mid

A Beautiful Book of Recipes and Travelogue Covering the Whole of Spain

The author spent over 5 years researching this book and this dedication shows through its coverage of the regions, history, and culture of Spain, as well as the delicious food and recipes that tie it all together. From simple, rustic tapas and delicately-flavoured soups to elaborate celebratory dishes and desserts, this book is a real education on the country.


It's obvious that the author wrote every part of this book with a great deal of passion and care, though if you're looking for a recipe book only, this may not suit you. Nonetheless, those who have read and cooked from it praise Roden's style and offer it plenty of five star reviews. 

No.3

Monika LintonBrindisa: The True Food of Spain

Brindisa: The True Food of Spain  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£11.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£11.99
Low Mid

An Education on Authentic Spanish Cookery From a Restaurant Institution

Brindisa's restaurant and shop are well-established favourites with the foodies of Borough Market, and this cookbook includes classic regional recipes, tapas dishes and information about the very best foods and producers


The content ranges from unusual artisan dishes to Spanish classics, whilst drawing on Brindisa's specialist knowledge of the best Spanish ingredients. As it's fairly heavy with additional recipes alongside background and historical information, it's ideal for more experienced cooks who don't require demonstrative photographs

No.4

Omar Allibhoy Tapas Revolution

Tapas Revolution 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£15.99
Mid
Reference price
£15.99
Mid

Simple, Delicious Tapas Without Too Many Specialist Ingredients

Tapas Revolution focuses on simple Spanish cookery, using everyday store cupboard ingredients and straightforward methods so that anyone can cook this versatile and accessible food. 


Omar, who trained at the world-famous El Bulli restaurant, has made numerous television appearances and is the owner of the popular Tapas Revolution restaurants, so it's no surprise that reviewers praise this book for its easy-to-follow recipes and authenticity. A great starting title or to broaden your culinary horizons. 

No.5

Penelope Casas1000 Spanish Recipes

1000 Spanish Recipes 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£22.99
High Mid
Reference price
£22.99
High Mid

A Fantastic Collection of Recipes With Simplicity in Mind

This collection of simple, precise recipes takes readers on a culinary journey of Spain from Galicia to Madrid to the Canary Islands. Including recipes for tapas, soups, salads, main courses, vegetables, paellas, breads and desserts, you'll definitely be spoiled for choice as to what to cook next


It also has a great selection of easily-identifiable vegetarian dishes, special menus, and features on Spanish ingredients and dishes to inspire cooks everywhere. At 640 pages this book will most definitely have a commanding presence on your shelf, but with such a variety it is likely to be a book you reach for again and again. 

No.6

Sam & Sam ClarkMoro: The Cookbook

Moro: The Cookbook 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£18.05
Mid
Reference price
£18.05
Mid

Learn About Spain's History Through Its Foodie Influences

From their London restaurant, Moro, Sam and Sam Clark share their passion for the food of Spain, North Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean. In this, their first book, they've compiled some of the restaurant's most popular dishes, including heady fusions of warm spices, fiery sauces, and slow-cooked earthy stews.


Bear in mind, however, that some of the recipes take a lot of time and preparation to cook. So while this is a really interesting look at the flavours of the south of the country and other Mediterranean influences, if you want a practical cookbook this particular one may not work as well for you as others. 

No.7

Rick SteinSpain: 140 New Recipes Inspired by My Journey Off the Beaten Track

Spain: 140 New Recipes Inspired by My Journey Off the Beaten Track 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£17.99
Mid
Reference price
£17.99
Mid

A Comprehensive Collection of Recipes From a Well Known Name

Rick Stein needs no introduction to those who enjoy their food. His "off the beaten track" approach is well known and respected, and this book is no exception. It navigates its way through the specialties and hidden treats of each region, taking in the changing landscape from the mountainous northern regions to the Spanish plains and Mediterranean beaches.


This book was written to accompany a BBC TV series and some reviewers have noted that there are a few recipes missing from the show, and that the photography is sometimes lacking which may not be best for those unfamiliar to the cuisine. However, this book is a really popular title for its 'traditional with a twist' approach. 

No.8

Colman AndrewsCatalan Cuisine: Europe's Last Great Culinary Secret

Catalan Cuisine: Europe's Last Great Culinary Secret 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£11.19
Low Mid
Reference price
£11.19
Low Mid

An Exploration of the Cuisine and Culture of One of Spain's Northern Regions

This book looks closely at the wine, history, and culture of Catalonia which is located in the north east of the country. Colman Andrews explores this area, from its French, Roman and Moorish roots to today's modern interpretation, as well as covering the popular city of Barcelona.


Full of hearty, traditional dishes, this remains a really popular Spanish cookery title. However, it was written in 1997 so while the recipes will not have changed, some of the information on the towns and cities may now be outdated. A few specialist ingredients will also need to be sourced. 

No.9

Hamlyn All Colour Cookery200 Tapas & Spanish Dishes

200 Tapas & Spanish Dishes 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£4.54
Low
Reference price
£4.54
Low

A Versatile Collection of Recipes to Get You Started

This is a really useful introductory cookbook if you're just starting out in Spanish cookery. The recipes are categorised by how long they take to make, so you can make informed choices on what you cook and not be unexpectedly tied to the kitchen for hours! 


While this is a great cookbook if you're new to Spanish food, if you're looking for something more in-depth this may fall short of what you want. But as far as good value, basic cookbooks go this is a sound choice

No.10

Marion TrutterCulinaria Spain: A Celebration of Food and Tradition

Culinaria Spain: A Celebration of Food and Tradition 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£48.94
High
Reference price
£48.94
High

A Beautiful Spanish Food Compendium

This book covers the whole of Spain region by region, looking in depth at the flavours and culinary traditions. It's chock-full of not only mouthwatering recipes, but over 1,000 stunning photographs to capture the sights and people of Spain.


While this is a really thorough exploration into Spanish food and culture, this book is a bit of a tome and also quite a bit more expensive than other books in this listing. However, it would make a really attractive coffee table book or gift, so may be a good option if you this works for you.

More Products to Help You Become a Spanish Masterchef

More Products to Help You Become a Spanish Masterchef

So you've chosen the cookbook, and you're all set to turn out some amazing Spanish flavours for your family and friends. But do you have the kitchen equipment you need? Have a look at the articles below to help you prep like a pro! 

Summary

So that was our round up of the top 10 Spanish cookbooks! We hope our tips and advice were helpful, and that you've found the recipe book of the right level, theme, and focus to get you cooking up a storm at your next fiesta. 


Author: Catherine Torrance

Top 5 Spanish Cookbooks

No. 1: José PizarroSpanish Flavours

No. 2: Claudia RodenThe Food of Spain

No. 3: Monika LintonBrindisa: The True Food of Spain

No. 4: Omar Allibhoy Tapas Revolution

No. 5: Penelope Casas1000 Spanish Recipes

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