Starting November 9th, we'll be hosting the second annual Tournament of Cookbooks on food52: 16 of the best cookbooks of 2010 will face off in an NCAA-style bracketed tournament to determine who will win the coveted Piglet trophy (pictured here). 17 talented and opinionated judges will decide which book moves on after each round, and the final decision will be announced at the Piglet Party on Tuesday, November 30th at the 92nd Street Y Tribeca in New York City. (More info to come on the party and how to get tickets!)
The complete list of contenders is below; in order to have your voice heard, just leave a comment in this post as to which of these you'd choose as the best cookbook of 2010. We'll tally the votes and return the two books with the most support to a Wildcard Round for a second chance.
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Voting is now closed! Stay tuned to find out which books make it into the wildcard round...
Plenty by Yotam Ottolenghi and Jonathan Lovekin
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Harvest to Heat by Darryl Estrine and Kelly Kochendorfer
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The Vegetarian Option by Simon Hopkinson
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The Art of Eating In by Cathy Erway
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A Cook's Journey to Japan by Sarah Marx Feldner
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Thai Street Food by David Thompson
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Around My French Table by Dorie Greenspan
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Forgotten Skills of Cooking by Darina Allen
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The Frankies Spuntino Kitchen Companion & Cooking Manual by Frank Falcinelli, Frank Castronovo and Peter Meehan
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Urban Pantry by Amy Pennington
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Cook Italy by Katie Caldesi
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Heart of the Artichoke and Other Kitchen Journeys by David Tanis
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The Perfect Finish by Bill Yosses and Melissa Clark
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Cakewalk: A Memoir by Kate Moses
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My Sweet Mexico by Fany Gerson
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Good to the Grain by Kim Boyce with Amy Scattergood
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The Piglet—inspired by The Morning News' Tournament of Books—is where the 16 most notable cookbooks of the year face off in a NCAA-style bracketed tournament. Watch the action and weigh in on the results!
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163 Comments
scottw
September 30, 2010
it's got to be................urban pantry. i've even started washing my baggies!
SueG
September 29, 2010
This method of voting has clearly become contaminated by a campaign to vote for at least one certain book. I will be completely unenthusiastic about the whole Piglet contest if that stands.
Food52
September 29, 2010
For this wildcard vote, anyone can vote and anyone was welcome to campaign for support -- this is a democracy, after all! But not to worry, the rest of the judging in the Tournament of Cookbooks is done by judges who we've selected in advance.
Gale
September 30, 2010
While I have to somewhat agree with you regarding the voting for two certain books, one of them is really excellent with many usable recipes and the other was a surprise since I found it relatively uninspired and basic. My real vote would have been for Simon Hopkinson if I had had myself in gear. Do love the Piglet., though - and hope Nora is judge again.
janerac
September 29, 2010
The Frankies Sputino Kitchen Companion! One of the Franks signed mine at the Brooklyn Book festival a couple weeks ago. I love the illustrations and the writing.
chefschenk
September 29, 2010
Frankie's Spuntino Kitchen Companion is a great cookbook, the illustrations in the book are outstanding! The food at Frankie's is a testament to the quailty and dedication to create really good Italian food.Frankie's and the Frank's have my vote......
Ronnybell
September 29, 2010
Urban Pantry Rocks. I use the shrimp marinade all the time and it's awesome.
Comics I.
September 29, 2010
Frankies Spuntino, hands down. Love the illustrations and it teaches you how to grow an avocado tree.
[email protected]
September 29, 2010
Frankie's Spuntino Cookbook is a fabulous cookbook! Great, simple recipes for terrific food that you can eat every night or serve at a fancy party. And the look and style set it apart from any other cookbook published this year.
WendyM
September 29, 2010
Frankies is the best - I have never read a cookbook like I do a novel laying in bed but that's what I do with this one! So interesting and the best recipes!
zachrodgers
September 29, 2010
Many of these I don't own, but I do own The Frankies Spuntino Kitchen Companion & Cooking Manual and love it. Have been sampling recipes from it for two months with excellent results.
MerMade
September 29, 2010
Frankies for sure! I initially bought it as a gift for a friend and couldn't part with it so went out and bought another...
raspberryeggplant
September 29, 2010
The Perfect Finish - Bill Yosses is wonderful.
And Frankies for finally letting the cat out of the bag as to how much olive oil they use in their amazing tomato sauce.
And Frankies for finally letting the cat out of the bag as to how much olive oil they use in their amazing tomato sauce.
Melina
September 29, 2010
Being in the restaurant industry for many years I have read more than my share of cookbooks - My vote goes to The Frankies Spuntino Kitchen Companion & Cooking Manual. Best teaching guide at all levels. Amazing recipes!
Terry C.
September 29, 2010
The Franks have the magic touch -- everything is amazing, from the stupendous meatballs to the heavenly sweet potato ravioli, to the outrageous stewed plums with marscarpone. The food at the restaurant is always terrific and now it can be recreated at home. Thanks, guys! Also, thanks for bringing that beautiful olive oil stateside. It spares us trips up and down Sicilian mountainsides to enjoy it!
SophieM
September 29, 2010
Thai Street Food may be the most beautiful cookbook I have ever come across.
mariaraynal
September 29, 2010
I'm going with Around My French Table. Great selection and am excited to get to know the books I'm not familiar with yet.
ScottMcG
September 29, 2010
URBAN PANTRY! So well done. Quality and fun to use and read. Puts a unique and refreshing spin on cooking/preserving. Love it! fyi don't tell but everyone is getting this for X-mas.
ritzy
September 29, 2010
Urban Pantry, rah, rah, rah! The recipes in this book are creative and delicious, plus I heard the author is a total BABE! It's Urban Pantry all the way for me.
ntcopeland
September 29, 2010
Urban Pantry is the standout book. Creative and practical solutions to the age old question, "What am I going to do with all of these !**@ from the garden? From the Pantry?" Simple directions and humorous antecdotes from this charming author.
Milk &.
September 29, 2010
I think Urban Pantry is really great. I'm getting 30# of tomatoes in the morning and read up in her book how to do it. Super cool.
Jedidion
September 28, 2010
Been burning through Urban Pantry and loving it. The trophy should go to Amy!
tnole
September 28, 2010
As a New York and a Seattlite I have to say HANDS DOWN Amy Pennington's Urban Pantry is the VERY BEST on this list!
a_thrun
September 28, 2010
A Cook's Journey to Japan!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you haven't checked it out yet, do so. :)
Rgbotta
September 27, 2010
A Cook's Journey to Japan !! Best ever. Delicious easy to make, authentic recipes. And a great read. Love it. Got me cooking again. My friends are so happy.
sarah_buckley
September 27, 2010
A cooks Journey to Japan has taught me so much I choose that one!!!!
adina_ch
September 27, 2010
My Sweet Mexico!!!!! It goes beyond a spectacular cookbook (ease and deliciousness of recipies, photos...) to become a treasured testament of a different culture. It´s amazing what you can learn about another country through its desserts
Leslie K.
September 27, 2010
Got to meet the Frankies and very much enjoy the book, but Amy Pennington's Urban Pantry is my favorite this year. It's such a fun read with great recipes.
kim_burlingham
September 27, 2010
My sweet Mexico! I grew up in Mexico, my sweet tooth was spawned there. This book brings me home. Go zapote!
talia_strauss-diner
September 26, 2010
MY SWEET MEXICO all the way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The book is gorgeous, the recipes are excellent, the variety astounding. LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT!
The book is gorgeous, the recipes are excellent, the variety astounding. LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT!
dymnyno
September 26, 2010
Does the Wildcard have to be from this list? I just perused "The Blue Chair Jam Cookbook" by Rachel Saunders....gorgeous, creative , great recipes to use by the season. A stunning cookbook!
alaparc
September 26, 2010
Frankies Spuntino's. Straightforward - recipes do not break the bank - delicious and representative of the Italian home cooks of my childhood - funny as hell!
choicemorsel
September 26, 2010
Urban Pantry. Wandering through the life and times of Amy Pennington is a trip! Delicious too...
ErinH
September 24, 2010
Aaagh! I have to change my vote--just got my copy of Dorie Greenspan's book and I want to make and eat EVERYTHING. It's just a beautiful book.
rharrison
September 24, 2010
The Frankies Spuntino Kitchen Companion & Cooking Manual -- for wit, charm, good sense, and perfectly unfussy results.
fyp
September 24, 2010
Definitely My Sweet Mexico! It's more than just a cookbook...it's a collection of personal and Mexican history. It's essential for experienced and amateur cooks.
fyp
September 24, 2010
My Sweet Mexico for sure! The personal anecdotes and unique recipes make this not only a cookbook but a true vessel for Mexico's cultural heritage. It should be lauded as one of this year's greatest books.
Helena B.
September 23, 2010
No question about it, My sweet Mexico, the best also with the best chef Fany!!
Just buy it!!!
Just buy it!!!
klomri
September 23, 2010
My Sweet Mexico by Fany Gerson is my choice! it brings me back great memories from my time in Mexico!
Lizthechef
September 23, 2010
"Urban Pantry" and "Around My French Table" - cannot choose between them...
fiveandspice
September 23, 2010
My goodness. Apparently I need to pick up copies of Urban Pantry and My Sweet Mexico, but since I haven't seen them, my vote goes to "Plenty"!
Sagegreen
September 23, 2010
I have always appreciated Darina Allen, but Thai Street Food also interests me.
MrsWheelbarrow
September 23, 2010
I really must vote for Urban Pantry. It's such a smart book. But it was a tough decision - as I adore so many of these and, thanks to A&M, have put some others on my Must Buy list.
clauschidlow
September 23, 2010
My Sweet Mexico! this one seems to be the most original, and making any of these recipes you're sure to wow anyone!
foodiefantasy
September 23, 2010
Three words: MY SWEET MEXICO. This book is beautiful in every way, and the recipes don't only look amazing but they ARE amazing. Easy to follow and work every time!!! Seems like a tough competition but there really is one winner for me!!!
rob_fitzhenry
September 23, 2010
MY SWEET MEXICO! - amazing recipes, a peek inside a country that has rich yet obscure traditions unless you have travelled there - sometimes you know less of what is closest to you and Fany has presented us with an opportunity to share in her culture and its amazing desserts!
daltschuler
September 23, 2010
Fanny's My Sweet Mexico is not only a wonderful book for foodies, but also an amazing timeline if Mexico's vast and rich culinary history. A visionary ahead of her time, Fanny is the first to document the broad variety of Sweets that mexicans have enjoyed for generations.
rreed
September 23, 2010
My Sweet Mexico ALL THE WAY! That Tres Leches cake? Eat that and just TRY to vote for anyone else!!
KatieO
September 18, 2010
Two words: URBAN. PANTRY. My manfriend and I spent a Sunday reading through the book together. We were utterly inspired by Pennington's recipes and general chutzpah for smart and innovative ways to both stock your own larder with basics and then transforming those staples into creative and sumptuous meals. Really inspiring was her mantra to utilize your ingredients to the fullest, and not wasting anything. I heart this book. I heart this book hard.
HelenCherullo
September 17, 2010
"Urban Pantry: Tips and Recipes for a Thrifty, Sustainable and Seasonal Kitchen" is gorgeous, inspiring, and creative as well as practical and accessible.
MargaretS
September 17, 2010
Urban Pantry is fabulous. I love the way Amy gives simple tips and inspirational techniques to make food easy and creative. Best cookbook of the year by far. Try the ice cream infusions and the bread pudding variations.
Myra C.
September 17, 2010
Like so many, my life is chock full with work and family. It has been hard to get enthusiastic about cooking for the past few year, but I am re-inspired with Urban Pantry. The recipes are delicious, easy to prepare and a delight for family and guests.
Heena
September 16, 2010
What a unique trophy! :) My vote's for Around My French Table by Dorie Greenspan.
paigeclark
September 16, 2010
Urban Pantry is the best by far!! Fabulous book for the urban food lover.
fritanga
September 16, 2010
Plenty by Ottolenghi. This guy is a genius with vegetarian food. I've been following him for months on guardian.co.uk. He's amazing.
mary_metz
September 16, 2010
Urban Pantry though there are so many books I can see I'm going to have to check out here. My birthday cake this year was Amy's chocolate buttermilk cake recipe and it not only tasted fabulous but made the rental house smell richly of chocolate--quite lovely after a bracing walk along the Oregon coast. It was a hit with everyone from age 13 to 50.
Waverly
September 16, 2010
This is a great list of choices, and I've had fun browsing through them. My vote is for Dorie Greenspan's book, Around My French Table which I JUST ordered 3 days ago. On her blog, Dorie has formed a cooking club called "French Fridays with Dorie". The group will cook a recipe from her book every Friday. I joined up there too....cannot wait!!
PS. The book is fabulous - filled with lovely and delicious recipes for regular people.
The Piglet is so fun. Thanks for having it again. I look forward to reading more.
PS. The book is fabulous - filled with lovely and delicious recipes for regular people.
The Piglet is so fun. Thanks for having it again. I look forward to reading more.
mcs3000
September 16, 2010
Outstanding list, but my vote goes to: Good to the Grain by Kim Boyce. Every recipe I've made from her book has been a knock out. Take the sacred chocolate chip cookie: Kim has made it better than any other I've ever eaten - but they're made with whole wheat. She has inspired me to think differently in the kitchen.
rstaffel
September 16, 2010
Fabulous choices all around! I find that I'm going back again and again to Urban Pantry by Amy Pennington and Forgotten Skills by Darina Allen. They both embody that "it's just food" ethos that makes you feel comfortable and easy in the kitchen.
mklug
September 16, 2010
I flipping LOVE The Urban Pantry! The tone is so wonderful, and it really was just the book I was looking for--so many great ideas for becoming that ideal woman that I am in my mind. I'm sure that for you more advanced people it's not that earth-shaking, but for those of us who just want to be more like you advanced people it's the best, best, best!
aargersi
September 16, 2010
How long do we have to vote? I haven't seen any of these but am willing to spend a few bucks and give a couple of them a spin!!
phyllis
September 16, 2010
So happy this is back. I haven't seen/read all of the new cookbooks on the list, but my two favorites, so far, are Dorie Greenspan's and Frankies Spuntino Kitchen. If I MUST select one, then it's Dorie's.
TasteFood
September 16, 2010
I rarely seek out vegetarian books, and with Ottolenghi I often forget it is a veg book. The recipes are gorgeous and the photography is art. Looking forward to the next Tournament!
luvcookbooks
September 16, 2010
Have only looked at Forgotten Skills of Cooking by Darina Allen but looked substantive and interesting.
Liked Erway's book. More about an approach to cooking and living than a recipe book per se, so an interesting addition to the list.
Otherwise not familiar but looking forward to learning more about the books on the list! Just in time to generate a Christmas list!!
Liked Erway's book. More about an approach to cooking and living than a recipe book per se, so an interesting addition to the list.
Otherwise not familiar but looking forward to learning more about the books on the list! Just in time to generate a Christmas list!!
Bevi
September 15, 2010
I love the way Yotam mixes up classics, and creates new combinations of ingredients. I have to go with Plenty, but Frankie's runs a very close second.
healthierkitchen
September 15, 2010
I was hoping there'd be another piglet contest! I haven't yet seen many of these, but love Kim Boyce's Good to the Grain.
jlaw44
September 15, 2010
Pretty excited about Frankies Spuntino book (JUST picked it up this weekend!), but thought My Sweet Mexico was GORGEOUS too. Also have a soft spot for Plenty and Cook's Journey to Japan. It's going to be a hard decision!! :)
Kelsey B.
September 15, 2010
Woo-hoo! LOVE the Piglet.. I'd have to go with Dorie's cookbook and The Perfect Finish for Wildcards. Can't wait to see more!
MrsWheelbarrow
September 15, 2010
Oh fun! I'm so glad to see this Tournament back. Last time, I filled so much of my bookshelf, I had to build a new one. Fortunately, the new one has plenty of space to accommodate some new additions. Thanks for curating!
mrslarkin
September 15, 2010
So many great books to choose from! But my favorite of the bunch is The Frankies Spuntino Kitchen Companion & Cooking Manual. I love it. It looks cool, the illustrations are awesome, the recipes rock, not to mention they've got a picture of my future first tattoo on page v.
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