If you are a professional chef whose curry menu has fallen into a creative rut for lack of time, then a curry cookbook directory resource could be invaluable. Specialty cookbooks allow you to experiment with different recipes, and sometimes add your own twist. The best cookbooks include detailed descriptions, enticing images, and informative references.

With so many resources available online and off, it's easy searching for a curry cookbook provider. However, finding the right cookbooks that meet your individual taste requires some research and often feedback from other professionals and even consumers. So don’t fall back on the old “faithfuls.” Branch out and try something new. Before searching for curry cookbook information and investing in a library of cookbooks, remember the following:

1. The cookbooks that you choose should reflect your skill level, your schedule, and the type of curry you are interested in.

2. You can find curry cookbook ideas from successful cooking shows, but don’t choose best-selling cookbooks simply because they are produced by celebrities or celebrity chefs. Try their TV show recipes first, and then decide whether you like their style and methods of cooking before investing in their cookbook.

3. See if you can get a little extra from your cookbook. Some offer accompanying recipe CDs for online convenience.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a online curry cookbook or other online resource that offers curry recipes

The best curry recipes and cookbook recommendations come from those passionate about the subject. There are people who thrive on finding creative ways to cook curry and are eager to share them online.

I recommend: MyCrimsonSky.com features a 'curry addiction' section offering a diverse selection of curry recipes from around the globe, in addition to secrets behind great curry. Punjabi-Recipes.com provides curry recipes, a discussion board, and useful tips.

Continue to update and enhance your curry cookbook collection with a contemporary approach

You may assume that you have a pretty substantial cookbook collection, but recipes are continuously enhanced and updated. Stay abreast of the newest creations, and don't be afraid to try something different.

I recommend: 660 Curries offers an eclectic mix of classic and contemporary curry recipes, such as salmon with garlic and turmeric, and chicken with lemongrass and kaffir-lime leaves. Curry : Fire and Spice: Over 150 Great Curries from India and Asia offers up plenty of recipes, in addition to the history of curries in India and other regions.

Add a touch of the traditional by including classic curry books

If you are looking to take your guests back in time and remind them of the good old days, you might consider picking old fashioned recipe cookbooks. Some classic cookbooks provide an interesting history behind the selected recipes. These cookbooks may be harder to find and more expensive, but usually worth it.

I recommend: Indian Essence: The Fresh Tastes of India's New Cuisine and 50 Great Curries of India, Tenth Anniversary Edition both feature authentic curry recipes inspired by dishes from various regions in India.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  You don't have to perform a complete overhaul of your menu unless it's absolutely necessary. Create a curry cookbook list and pick a new recipe every week. Just one new recipe a week equals 52 new recipes a year in your arsenal.