What books or resources should I read to learn more about cooking?

There are numerous excellent books and resources that can help you enhance your cooking skills, whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook. Here are some highly recommended books covering various aspects of cooking:

1. "The Joy of Cooking" by Irma S. Rombauer, Marion Rombauer Becker, and Ethan Becker:

   • A classic and comprehensive cookbook that covers a wide range of recipes and techniques.

2. "Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat" by Samin Nosrat:

   • Focuses on the fundamental elements of good cooking, explaining the importance of salt, fat, acid, and heat in creating balanced and delicious dishes.

3. "The Food Lab: Better Home Cooking Through Science" by J. Kenji López-Alt:

   • An in-depth exploration of the science behind cooking, providing both recipes and explanations for various techniques.

4. "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" by Julia Child, Louisette Bertholle, and Simone Beck:

   • A classic by the legendary Julia Child, offering detailed instructions for mastering French culinary techniques.

5. "On Food and Cooking: The Science and Lore of the Kitchen" by Harold McGee:

   • Explores the science of cooking, helping you understand the "whys" behind various cooking methods and ingredients.

6. "The Flavor Bible" by Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg:

   • A valuable resource for understanding flavor combinations and creating your own culinary masterpieces.

7. "Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking" by Marcella Hazan:

   • A must-read for those interested in mastering traditional Italian cooking, with detailed and authentic recipes.

8. "How to Cook Everything" by Mark Bittman:

   • A comprehensive cookbook that covers a wide variety of recipes, making it a great resource for both beginners and experienced cooks.

9. "The Professional Chef" by The Culinary Institute of America (CIA):

   • A comprehensive textbook covering the essential techniques and principles taught at the renowned Culinary Institute of America.

10. "Cooking for Geeks" by Jeff Potter:

    • Explores the science of cooking in a fun and accessible way, providing insights for both beginners and curious minds.

Remember, beyond books, online platforms like cooking blogs, YouTube channels (such as Food Wishes, Bon Appétit, or Tasty), and cooking classes can also be valuable resources for learning new techniques and recipes. Don't hesitate to experiment in the kitchen and find what works best for your taste and style.