

How a Cookbook Gets Made
Apr 9, 2025
Sarah Ahn, co-author of the heartfelt cookbook 'Umma', shares her journey of blending Korean tradition with family recipes. Adam Kowit, the editorial director at America's Test Kitchen, discusses the intricate process behind cookbook creation. They explore the emotional storytelling that enhances culinary traditions and the evolution of cookbooks in the digital age. With anecdotes about recipe development and the art of food presentation, they highlight how unique dishes can connect with readers on a deeper level. A delightful conversation for food lovers!
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Family Korean Cooking Anecdote
- Sarah Ahn's mom prepares complex, flavorful Korean pickles and dishes that impressed America's Test Kitchen.
- These family recipes embody tradition and innovation, showcasing everyday yet special Korean cooking.
Cookbooks as Narrative and Resource
- Cookbooks now often blend storytelling with recipes to create both a narrative and a practical resource.
- Visuals and candid shots enrich the personal connection readers have with the cookbook's subjects.
Cookbook Creation Complexity
- Creating a cookbook requires intense planning, testing, and storyboarding from the outset.
- Every book must have a unique identity, making each cookbook project feel like starting from scratch.