James Beard Nominee 2024
Recipes and stories from the front lines of hope
The World Central Kitchen Cookbook is more than a collection of recipes—it’s a powerful tribute to resilience, community, and the belief that food can change the world. Founded by chef José Andrés, World Central Kitchen (WCK) has served millions of meals to people affected by natural disasters and humanitarian crises across the globe.
In their first cookbook, WCK shares 60+ recipes inspired by the places they've cooked—from Lahmajoun Flatbread served in Beirut to Ukrainian Borsch made during the ongoing war. Alongside these recipes are personal stories from chefs, volunteers, and community members, all beautifully captured through photography from the front lines. Contributions from WCK supporters like Michelle Obama, Meghan Markle, Marcus Samuelsson, and Ayesha Curry bring even more heart to the table.
Chapters are organized by WCK’s guiding values—Urgency, Hope, Adaptation, Community, and Resilience—making this book not just a celebration of global cooking, but a call to action for a more generous and connected world.
Who’s it for?
Perfect for cooks who believe in food as a force for good, fans of global flavors, and anyone who wants to support disaster relief with every recipe they make.
Spices to pair with this cookbook:
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Shichimi Togarashi: A zesty Japanese blend that adds heat and brightness to soups and noodles
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Ras el Hanout: A bold North African blend to complement dishes like flatbreads, tagines, and rice
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Sazón Seasoning: Adds vibrant, savory depth to Latin American-style stews, beans, and meats
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MSG: A smart pantry addition that boosts umami in dishes like chili, fried rice, or borsch
- Chili Lime Salt: A zippy finishing salt for tacos, roasted veggies, or a squeeze of citrus
