If you don't know where to start, go with Pollan's Omnivore's Dilemma, but none of these are likely to waste your time.
See also Books about Food. Some binary choices are arbitrary.
This is the book that really introduced phrits to his kitchen. He's much more of a cook than a baker today, but he owes a lot to this one.
See also Cookbooks. Some binary choices are arbitrary.
This is recognized by nearly all food professionals as the definitive book on the science of cooking. Its only noticeable flaw is a weak index.