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About: Food & drink

Food and drink books are vibrant explorations of culinary culture, history, and the art of gastronomy, offering readers a rich tapestry of flavors, traditions, and innovations. These books delve into the origins of what we eat and drink, revealing how historical events, cultural practices, and technological advancements have shaped our culinary landscape.

The history of food and drink literature can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where early texts documented recipes and agricultural practices. The Roman cookbook Apicius, dating back to the 4th or 5th century AD, is one of the earliest known examples, providing insight into the lavish banquets of the Roman elite. As societies evolved, so did the literature surrounding food, with the Middle Ages seeing the emergence of manuscripts that combined recipes with moral and ethical teachings.
The Renaissance sparked a renewed interest in culinary arts, leading to the publication of influential cookbooks that emphasized the importance of presentation and flavor. Figures like Bartolomeo Scappi and his work The Opera of Bartolomeo Scappi (1570) showcased the sophistication of Italian cuisine and set the stage for modern culinary literature.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, food and drink books began to reflect broader societal changes, including the rise of the middle class and the industrial revolution. Cookbooks became more accessible, with authors like Eliza Acton and Isabella Beeton writing influential texts that combined recipes with household management advice.

The 20th century saw the explosion of food writing as a genre, with authors like Julia Child and M.F.K. Fisher elevating the art of cooking into a cultural phenomenon. Their works not only provided recipes but also celebrated the joy of cooking and the importance of food in human connection.

Today, food and drink books encompass a wide range of genres, including cookbooks, food history, memoirs, and cultural studies. They explore everything from the science of cooking to the politics of food production, inviting readers to engage with the complexities of what they consume. Titles like Salt: A World History by Mark Kurlansky and Consider the Fork by Bee Wilson delve into the historical and cultural significance of ingredients and cooking tools, while contemporary works often address issues like sustainability, health, and the global food system.

In essence, food and drink books are not just about recipes; they are narratives that connect us to our past, inform our present, and inspire our future culinary adventures. They celebrate the diverse tapestry of human experience through the lens of what we eat and drink, making them essential reading for anyone interested in the intersection of culture, history, and gastronomy.

Bestselling cookbooks:

1. Magnolia Table, Volume 3 by Joanna Gaines - A continuation of the popular series featuring comforting recipes that reflect family and community.
2. Sweet Enough by Alison Roman - A baking book that focuses on chic and simple sweets, appealing to both novice and experienced bakers.
3. The Wok: Recipes and Techniques by J. Kenji López-Alt - A comprehensive guide to wok cooking, offering techniques and recipes that celebrate this versatile cooking method.
4. Milk Street Noodles by Christopher Kimball - This cookbook explores noodle dishes from various cultures, focusing on easy-to-follow recipes.
5. Y’all Eat Yet? by Miranda Lambert - A collection of recipes inspired by the country music star’s Southern roots and love for home-cooked meals.
6. The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs by America’s Test Kitchen Kids - Aimed at aspiring young cooks, this book includes over 100 kid-friendly recipes.
7. Baking Yesteryear by B. Dylan Hollis - A nostalgic look at classic baking recipes, inspired by the TikTok star's viral content.
8. One: Simple One-Pan Wonders by Jamie Oliver - A practical cookbook that emphasizes simple, delicious meals made in one pan for easy cleanup.
9. Tasting History by Max Miller - This book combines history and cooking, offering recipes inspired by significant historical events and figures.
10. The Everlasting Meal Cookbook: Leftovers A-Z by Tamar Adler - A guide to making the most of leftovers and creating delicious meals from what you have on hand.

Famous chefs:

• Paul Bocuse
• Christian Henze
• Alexander Herrmann
• Johann Lafer
• Lea Linster
• Tim Mälzer
• Jamie Oliver
• Yotam Ottolenghi
• Cornelia Poletto
• Alfons Schuhbeck
• Sarah Wiener
• Eckart Witzigmann
• Ralf Zacherl