by Massimo Montanari (Editor), Jean-louisFlandrin (Editor), Albert Sonnenfeld (Translator)
When did we first serve meals at regular hours? Why did we begin using individual plates and utensils to eat? When did cuisine become a concept and how did we come to judge food by its method of preparation, manner of consumption, and gastronomic merit? Food: A Culinary History explores culinary evolution and eating habits from prehistoric times to the present, offering surprising insights into our social and agricultural practices, religious beliefs, and most unreflected habits. The volume dispels myths such as the tale that Marco Polo brought pasta to Europe from China, that the original recipe for chocolate contained chili instead of sugar, and more. As it builds its history, the text also reveals the dietary rules of the ancient Hebrews, the contributions of Arabic cookery to European cuisine, the table etiquette of the Middle Ages, and the evolution of beverage styles in early America. It concludes with a discussion on the McDonaldization of food and growing popularity of foreign foods today.
Format: Illustrated
Pages: 592
Edition: Illustrated
Publisher: Columbia University Press
Published: 01 May 2013
ISBN 10: 023111155X
ISBN 13: 9780231111553
Book Overview: When two of Europe's great food historians collaborate to edit a major collection on food and culture, past and present, there is much to celebrate. From the cuisine of 'les temps prehistoriques'to the food of today ('le hamburger et la pizza'), more than forty scholars explore a huge range of fascinating topics... A fine book that will bring enlightenment and pleasure to all those who can eat and think at the same time. -- Nach Waxman, Kitchen Arts & Letters Bookstore, New York City