The Food Lab: Better Home Cooking Through Science

by J. Kenji López-Alt
The Food Lab: Better Home Cooking Through Science cover
Good Books rating 4.33
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Waterstones
Hardback • £39.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 3522
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Barnes & Noble · 2025-10-18
practical 4.50

The book is highly recommended for beginners, as it explains the 'why' behind cooking techniques. It is praised for its clarity and practical advice.

This reviewer recommends The Food Lab, especially for beginning cooks, because it explains the science behind cooking techniques in a clear and understandable manner. They appreciate the book's ability to provide practical advice and insights that are often missing in other cookbooks. The reviewer finds the explanations to be both informative and helpful, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their cooking skills.

Quick quotes

    This is a great cookbook particularly for people like me, beginning cooks.

    So often recipes tell you to do something but never explain why. Mr. Alt uses his expertise to fill in those gaps.

    The book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand the science behind cooking techniques and improve their skills.

Smart Bitches, Trashy Books · 2016-06-23
captivating 4.00

The book is fascinating to read, even if it might not be used for practical cooking. It is commended for its engaging and detailed content.

This reviewer finds The Food Lab to be a captivating read, even if they don't plan to use it as a practical cookbook. They highlight the book's ability to mesmerize with its detailed explanations and engaging writing style. The reviewer appreciates the depth of information provided, making it a great read for anyone interested in the science of cooking, regardless of their culinary skills.

Quick quotes

    Even though I doubt I would ever actually use this cookbook for cooking, as an armchair read it is absolutely mesmerizing.

    To my eternal joy, the book delves into the science behind cooking techniques in a way that is both informative and entertaining.

    The detailed explanations and engaging writing style make it a great read for anyone interested in the science of cooking.

The New York Times · 2015-09-29
informative 4.50

The Food Lab translates well from its online format to a book, offering practical and insightful cooking advice. It is praised for its depth and scientific approach to home cooking.

This reviewer highlights how The Food Lab effectively transitions from an online column to a comprehensive book. They appreciate the detailed explanations and scientific approach to cooking, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced cooks. The book is seen as a go-to guide for anyone looking to understand the science behind cooking techniques, providing practical advice that can be easily applied in the kitchen.

Quick quotes

    The Food Lab column works brilliantly online, where users expect to find good answers to any question, nearly instantaneously.

    It also allows for a deeper dive into the science behind the techniques, making it a valuable resource for home cooks.

    The book is a testament to López-Alt's thorough research and his ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible.

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