NPR Cookbook Picks 2011

T. Susan Chang, a cookbook reviewer, compiled a list for NPR's best cookbooks for 2011.  Chang says that "...some of this year's best cookbooks came from very different kinds of nerds — culinary scholars, veteran authors, even serious home kitchens. With their rich sense of place, precise grasp of smart cooking practices and cultural depth, these books come to life freely — and flavorfully — into our home kitchens in a way even the sexiest handheld evaporator would be hard pressed to match." Any of these titles would make great gifts this holiday season. These are her picks.

1. Cook This Now by Melissa Clark

2. The Food of Spain by Claudia Roden

3. All About Roasting by Molly Stevens

4. The Food 52 Cookbook by Amanda Hesser and Merrill Stubbs

5. What Chefs Feed Their Kids by Fanae Aaron

6. The Country Cooking of Italy by Coleman Andrews

7. Lidia's Italy in America by Lidia Matticchio Bastianich and Tanya Bastianich Manuali

8. The Food of Morocco by Paula Wolfert

9. Ruhlman's Twenty by Michael Ruhlman

10. American Flavor by Andrew Carmellini

11. The Rosie's Bakery All-Butter, Cream-Filled, Sugar-Packed Baking Book by Judy Rosenberg