The First-Time Cookbook by Janet Rizvi and Sayeed Rizvi is a practical Indian cookbook designed especially for beginners and first-time cooks. It explains basic kitchen setup, shopping for essential ingredients, food preparation, and straightforward cooking techniques.

The book contains around 250 easy, no-fuss recipes from across India, ranging from everyday dal, rice and vegetables to dishes such as Baingan ke Bharte ka Raita, Shorshe Maachh and Murgh Khus-khus. It also includes selected European and West Asian recipes, along with suggestions for one-dish meals and packed lunches.