There were plenty of great additions to the cookbook category published in 2008.  Here are ten of our top favorites:

(1) " The Science of Good Food" (www.amazon.com) by David Joachim and Andrew Schloss: billed as the "ultimate reference on how cooking works" and a must-read for any serious home chef.

(2) "The Tight Budget Cookbook" (www.EandEGroup.com/publishing) edited by Heidi Smalheiser: proves food on a budget doesn't have to be boring.

(3) "The Old Farmer's Almanac Everyday Cookbook" (www.almanac.com): filled with over 400 recipes for those who love both nostalgia and comfort foods.

(4)  "The Culinary Institute of America Cookbook" (www.lfbooks.com): for that budding chef on your gift list.

(5)  "Frozen Desserts" (www.wiley.com) by Francisco J. Migoya: a 400-page winter wonderland of frozen creations that will have dessert lovers drooling.

(6)  "Eat, Shrink & Be Merry" (www.eatshrinkandbemerry.com) by Janet & Greta Podleski: these Canadian sisters showcase receips from their popular Canadian Food Network Show.

(7)  "Rachel Ray's Big Orange Book" (www.clarksonpotter.com) by Rachel Ray: the Food Network's star's latest release featuring the ultimate collection of 30-minute meals, vegetarian, kosher, holiday and menus for one.

(8)  "Ralph Brennan's New Orleans Seafood Cookbook" (www.vissideartebooks.com): stunningly illustrated, this is one to bequeth to future generations.

(9)  "The Diabetic Chef's Year-Round Cookbook" (www.diabetes.org) by Chef Chris Smith: nutrition and a healthy lifestyle made easy for anyone using Smith's recipes that incorporate plenty of fresh seasonal ingredients.

(10) " The 99 Cents Only Cookbook" (www.adamsmedia.com) by Christiana Jory: very creative ways to use ingredients found at the 99 Cents Only chain.

Until our next food find...may all your food finds be fabulous!