BOOK REVIEW: Culinary Pleasures - Cookbooks and the Transformation of British Food by Nicola Humble
What does a chef do during her free time? Read more books that revolve around the world of culinary history of course, duhhhh! I came across this gem of a book during my many book hunts in the Big Bad Wolf book fairs. It's NOT a regrettable read, that's for sure.
With many an evocative scene of food and dining, your mouth waters without notice when you read this book. Encompassing the many cookbooks that have popped up which supplied British food its character, this book leads you on a culinary journey through famous cookbooks from yesteryears till the present.
The author serves up a fascinating history of Britain's culinary evolution through the cookery books which have inspired us over the course of a century, beginning with Mrs Beeton and leading to the rise of the celebrity TV chef. You'll also find relevant recipes throughout, including wartime dishes (ever intended to do a thematic party, then these recipes may be just your cup of tea).
Brilliantly woven by Nicola Humble, this intoxicating read, thoroughly researched and referenced, is interspersed with great humor and insight. It also serves as an excellent account of the revival of Britain's native culinary traditions which have, since the war, shrugged off their sense of inferiority to fancy foreign food.
If you are yet to get a foodie a present for New Year, this unique book is highly recommended. Totally readable with a light engaging style, this will give a fascinating look at British food history along the reading journey.
No comments:
Post a Comment