13 Best ‘New’ Mexican Cookbooks For Home Cooks (2025)

13 new cookbooks that are making me fall in love with Mexican cooking all over again. These recently published Mexican cookbooks offer lessons on basic techniques, new flavors, and inspiring ingredients. When it comes to Mexican cuisine, these are the best cookbooks for home cooks of 2025, so far.

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My voracity for devouring new recipes and ideas is never satisfied and I feed these cravings by constantly being on the hunt for Mexican cookbooks. Lucky for me there is a never-ending supply of new releases so I thought I’d share my favorites of 2025 so far with fellow home cooks like you!

So what makes a great Mexican cookbook? In my opinion, originality and authenticity are key. There are a million Mexican cookbooks out there (give or take) and most of them don’t have a single recipe that is new or different. Most have recipes for the same exact things; chilaquiles, salsa verde, carne asada, guacamole, etc.

The cookbooks listed here stand apart because they offer the beautiful, vibrant flavors of Mexico in new and inventive ways. Like Beet Mole from Dora Ramirez’ book, Comida Casera or Smoked Menudo from Brandon Hurtado’s Mexican barbecue bible, Barbacoa.

A good Mexican cookbook explores the boundaries of Mexican cuisine. That’s what I tried to do in my cookbook, Plant Powered Mexican, and that’s what I love about these 13 new books, they are the real deal and a great place to start diving even deeper into Mexican foodways.

13 Best ‘NEW’ Mexican Cookbooks For Home Cooks 2025

1. Comida Casera, by Dora Ramirez

When Dora Ramírez transitioned away from animal products, she initially feared she’d have to leave her beloved Mexican cuisine behind. Instead, she discovered that vegan ingredients could bring new depth and vibrancy to her favorite dishes.

In Comida Casera, Dora invites readers into her kitchen with inventive recipes that celebrate the heart of Mexican home cooking, not just vegan or vegetarian cooking. Each chapter explores a different facet of Mexican food culture, highlighting everything from family favorites to Indigenous recipes crafted in collaboration with cocineras tradicionales, as well as vibrant street food and market fare. There’s so much detailed information here it can easily be used as a reference book for Mexican ingredients and techniques.

Readers will find inspiring everyday recipes like Almond Queso Fresco and Chilorio Burritos. Or if you want to impress at your next dinner party, make the Pumpkin Seed Enchiladas and—a new favorite recipe of mine—Vanilla Flan.

2. Salsa Daddy, by Rick Martínez

This book is a celebration of everything salsa can be: a classic dip for chips, a zesty topping for grilled cheese or burgers, an unexpected hero for roasted veggies, or the very foundation of iconic Mexican dishes.

Rick Martínez’s playful approach demystifies both traditional and inventive salsas, making them accessible for cooks of all levels. Whether you’re looking for simple recipes for pico de gallo with tomatoes, avocados, and chipotles, or want to try blending roasted peanuts and caramelized onions into a rich, spicy sauce, you’ll find endless inspiration in these pages.

Salsa Daddy dives deep into the world of salsas—from chunky, fresh creations like Xnipec to creamy, charred blends like La Tatemada Cremosa and bold, nutty sauces like Pipián Verde. Rick also shares unique specials, such as Salsa Macha and Aioli Rojo, each one bursting with personality. And when it’s time for a meal, the book delivers with approachable recipes for Chilaquiles, Puffy Tacos, Enchiladas Gratinadas, and Pozole Verde con Pollo, all designed to let salsa shine.

3. Barbacoa: The Heart of Tex-Mex Barbecue, by Brandon Hurtado

Unlike the many books devoted to Southern or African-American barbecue, Barbacoa shines a spotlight on the rich, often-overlooked tradition of Hispanic barbecue. Hurtado’s expertise and creativity are on full display with recipes that range from Pulled Pork Carnitas and Lobster Tostadas to show-stopping Brisket Birria Tacos and Barbacoa con Papas. Plus new techniques like Smoked Menudo and Mexican Hot Chicken. The book is a celebration of smoky, inventive cooking.

Barbacoa is the definitive guide for anyone eager to master the deepest, most complex barbecue flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting out, Hurtado’s approachable instructions and innovative recipes will have you serving up unforgettable meals. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite cookbooks.

4. Birrias: 65 Recipes from Traditional to Modern, by Jesse Valenciana

Birrias by Jesse Valenciana is a celebration of one of Mexico’s most cherished culinary traditions, brought to life with both reverence and reliable recipes. Known for his expertise as a food writer, chef, and cookbook author, Jesse opens the door to birria’s deep roots and its modern-day renaissance, inviting home cooks to explore a world of rich, bold flavors far beyond the familiar.

Traditionally reserved for life’s biggest celebrations—think weddings, quinceañeras, and family gatherings—birria is a slow-cooked stew, usually made with beef, pork, or goat, bathed in a fragrant adobo of chiles, garlic, and herbs. In this book, Jesse shares a treasure trove of family recipes passed down from his Mexican and Mexican-American grandparents, honoring the soulful origins of birria while embracing its exciting evolution.

Birrias doesn’t stop at the classics. Jesse dives into nearly fifty inventive new takes, showing how this beloved dish has become a star ingredient in everything from tacos and tamales to sandwiches, salads, and even soups. You’ll find approachable techniques even novice cooks can master for making birria tacos, enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas, and more—plus a special chapter featuring collaborations with celebrated chefs, like the “Appalachian Birria” created with Nashville’s Sean Brock.

5. Borderlands: Recipes and Stories from the Rio Grande to the Pacific, by Hank Shaw

With over 125 recipes and nearly 300 stunning photos, Borderlands is one of those great essential cookbooks celebrating the flavors, ingredients, and traditions that define this unique region.

Hank covers all the classics made with simple ingredients—think Fish Tacos, Chimichangas, and Carne Asada—alongside lesser-known gems like Discada, Mollejas, and Empalmes. There’s plenty here for my veggie lovers too, with standouts like Caldo de Queso, Cactus Salad, Nopales Navegantes, and Mushroom Tacos.

What I love most is how Hank weaves in his personal stories and the wild bounty of the borderlands—mesquite, wild greens, native pine nuts, cholla, even Texas ebony! Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, an adventurous home cook, or just someone who loves to eat, you’ll find inspiration for the dinner table on every page. The book even includes handy icons to help you mix and match wild and domesticated meats, fish, and fowl, so you can truly make these recipes your own.

6. Sunny Days, Taco Nights: A Cookbook, by Enrique Olvera & Alonso Ruvalcaba

You might know Olvera from his world-famous restaurants like Pujol in Mexico City, but here he’s sharing his true passion: the humble, glorious taco. And trust me, he treats tacos not just as food for a Tuesday night, but as a celebration of culture, history, and everyday joy.

This great book is part deep dive into the taco’s roots and part hands-on guide. Olvera walks us through the taco’s history, its endless regional variations, and all the little details that make each one special—from salsas to tortillas to creative toppings. The recipes are split into two fun chapters: “Classics,” where you’ll find street taco favorites like Fish Tacos from the northwest, Chicharrón Tacos from Monterrey, Chorizo and Spinach Tacos, and those iconic steak tacos you’d find at a Mexico City street cart.

Then “Originals” takes you on an adventure with Olvera’s inventive twists—think Brussels Sprouts Tacos with spicy peanut butter (yes, really!), Ceviche Tacos, Pork Belly Tacos with smoky black beans, and Eggs & Green Beans inspired by his childhood breakfasts.

The photography is absolutely gorgeous—vivid, colorful, and totally mouthwatering, just like the tacos themselves. Every page is inspired by the beautiful colors of native Mexican corn, making this book as much a feast for the eyes as it is for your taste buds.

7. Sabor Judío: The Jewish Mexican Cookbook, by Ilan Stavans & Margaret E. Boyle

This great cookbook is pure joy—a celebration of what happens when Jewish and Mexican traditions come together in the kitchen, and honestly, it’s such a beautiful reflection of how food connects us all across generations and borders.

Sabor Judío isn’t just a collection of recipes (though you’ll find 100 deeply personal dishes here, from easy recipes to all the special holiday favorites for Shabbat, Rosh Hashanah, Passover, Hanukkah, and more). It’s also a vibrant, illustrated history lesson, tracing Jewish immigration to Mexico all the way back to 1492 and showing how Ashkenazi, Sephardic, Mizrahi, and Converso women shaped this unique fusion cuisine.

If you’re looking to expand your kitchen repertoire and become a better cook, plus dive into the delicious crossroads of Jewish and Mexican cooking, Sabor Judío is a must-have.

8. Convivir: Modern Mexican Cuisine in California’s Wine Country by Rogelio Garcia & Andréa Lawson Gray

If you’re searching for a perfect cookbook that captures the heart of Mexican tradition and the soul of California’s wine country, let me introduce you to  Convivir by Michelin-starred chef Rogelio Garcia—winner of the 2025 James Beard Award for Best Cookbook! This book is a true celebration of what it means to come together, blending the flavors of Mexico with the vibrant bounty of Napa Valley.

Professional Chef Garcia, born in Mexico and raised in the United States, brings us over 150 stunning recipes that honor both his heritage and the incredible farms, ranches, and fisheries of his home. You’ll find everything from classic tacos, sopes, tostadas, and tamales to inspired, contemporary creations like the best recipe for Sopes with Sonoma Artichokes Three Ways, Wild Mushroom Tacos with Al Pastor Sauce, and Prawn Ceviche with choclo, yams, and pears. And let’s not forget the show-stoppers: Pork Rib Carnitas and Carrot Tamales with Spicy Carrot Salsa, Huevos Motuleños with Smoked Duck, and even a Lavender Custard Pie with a masa crust—hello, dessert dreams!

What I love most about Convivir is how approachable it is, even with its Michelin-star pedigree. Chef Garcia walks you through the basics—think homemade tortillas and tamales—then invites you to play, experiment, and gather your loved ones around the table. There are wine pairing tips, menu ideas for Mexican holidays, and so many ways to make every meal feel like a celebration.

9. My (Half) Latinx Kitchen: An Unforgettable Multicultural Culinary Journey, Spice Up Your Cooking Game by Kiera Wright-Ruiz

This book is such a vibrant, heartfelt journey through the flavors, stories, and traditions of Latin America, told through Kiera’s unique lens as someone who’s half Latinx, half Asian, and 100% passionate about food and family.

What I absolutely love about this cookbook is how it celebrates the entire Latin American diaspora. Kiera’s recipes draw inspiration from so many places—Ecuador, Cuba, Peru, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and beyond—reflecting the real-life patchwork of cultures that make up her family and her story. You’ll find everything from Ecuadorian Seco de Pollo (her dad’s favorite), to Puerto Rican Pernil for Thanksgiving, Peruvian Ceviche, Elote Taquitos, Lomo Saltado, Pandan Coconut Flan, and even Okonomiyaki Quesadillas. Every recipe is a window into a different region, a different tradition, and a different memory.

If you’re craving inspiration from all corners of Latin America this book is a good excuse to explore dishes you might not have tried before, My (Half) Latinx Kitchen is a total gem.

10. Let’s Make It!: A Mexican-American Culinary Adventure by Alfredo Garcia

As a first-generation Mexican American, Freddsters (as Alfredo Garcia is known on social media) brings the best of both worlds to the table. His recipes are a joyful mash-up of his Rio Grande Valley roots, his Chicago upbringing, and that signature Freddsters flair. This book is all about celebrating the blend—think Mexican-inspired takes on American favorites and playful twists on traditional classics.

You’ll find good basic recipes for homemade tortillas and the perfect pot of frijoles to fusion creations like Jalapeño Popper Tacos, Chori-queso Baked Spaghetti, and Poblano Caesar Salad. And if you’re in the mood for dessert, how about a tres leches cake with a matcha spin?

What I love most about  Let’s Make It  is how approachable and fun it all feels—just like Freddsters himself. Every recipe is packed with excellent explanations, love, family stories, and a spirit of celebration.

11. Tequila Wars: José Cuervo and the Bloody Struggle for the Spirit of Mexico, by Ted Genoways

This isn’t a cookbook, but trust me, it’s a great read, packed with the kind of history and drama that’ll make you see every sip of tequila in a whole new light.

Tequila Wars dives deep into the incredible story of José Cuervo—the man behind the world’s most famous tequila brand—and how he transformed a small family distillery into a powerhouse empire right in the heart of the Tequila Valley. Genoways brings the history to life, showing how Cuervo’s vision and ambition shaped not only the tequila industry, but also Mexican culture, politics, and even international trade. The book follows Cuervo through the chaos of the Mexican Revolution, his rise to fame, his dramatic fall, and his lasting influence on both sides of the border.

If you’re a home chef who is passionate about Mexican food and drink, and you love learning the stories that shape our culinary traditions, Tequila Wars is a fascinating, page-turning read.

12. 30 Nights of Tacos: Creative, Colorful Classics, by Victoria Czech

What I love about this book is how approachable it is. The recipes are easy to follow and use ingredients you can actually find, so you can whip up bold, fresh taco ideas any night of the week. And it’s not just about the tacos (though, let’s be honest, tacos are always the star)—you’ll find mouthwatering sides, snacks, salsas, and dips to round out your taco nights and make every meal feel like a true celebration.

30 Nights of Tacos is like taking a delicious journey through all the flavors, textures, and colors that make tacos a timeless favorite in Mexican kitchens and beyond. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just want to add a little bit of spice to your weeknight dinners, this book is packed with inspiration and fun.

13. The Choi of Cooking: Flavor-Packed, Rule-Breaking Recipes for a Delicious Life: A Cookbook, by Roy Choi, Tien Nguyen & Natasha Phan

The Choi of Cooking (A play on the classic, Joy of Cooking), isn’t a strictly Mexican cookbook—instead, it’s a vibrant, multicultural collection of recipes inspired by Roy’s own journey and the melting pot of flavors he’s known for.

Roy Choi, the culinary legend behind the iconic Kogi food truck and Netflix’s The Chef Show, brings us 100 recipes that are all about balance, comfort, and real-life eating. From veggie-forward plates like Calabrian Chile Broccoli Rabe and Tofu Breakfast Burritos, to comfort classics with unique flavor combinations like his famous Kimchi Philly Cheesesteak, every recipe is packed with layers of flavor and Choi’s signature creativity.

What I love about The Choi of Cooking (Roy Choi’s first cookbook)  is how approachable and encouraging it is. Roy meets you where you are, whether you’re craving a nourishing noodle bowl or a crispy, indulgent side, and offers easy “Power Up” swaps if you want to make things a little lighter. Plus, the book is sprinkled with Roy’s stories, wisdom, and philosophy about food and life—it’s about progress, not perfection, and finding joy in the kitchen.

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I’d love to hear any of your current favorite cookbooks (and what you’re making from them) in the comments!