Title: The American Plate: A History of the United States in 100 Bites
Author: Libby H. O'Connell, Ph. D
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Publication Date: November 1, 2014
ISBN: 9781492603023
Number of Pages: 320
How I Got It: NetGalley
Format: BlueFire
NetGalley Description:
A mouthwatering history of the evolution of American food from the lead historian at the History Channel. For generations, people have proudly defined themselves and their values through their national cuisine. But American food, like its history, is a world of its own. This enticingly fresh book introduces modern readers to lost American food traditions and leads them on a tantalizing culinary journey through the evolution of our vibrant cuisine and culture. Covering a hundred different foods from the Native American-era through today and featuring over a dozen recipes and photos, this fascinating history of American food will delight history buffs and food lovers alike.
My Review:
I was in nerd heaven when I read this book! The author is the lead historian at the History Channel and the information presentation is comparable to an Alton Brown cooking program. Think of your high school history book (I know *groan*) and think what were people eating during various decades? I never really thought of it before. The book opens with maize and foods we probably already knew the Native Americans were eating before colonization, then progresses through the various "high impact" periods of American history. The book is formatted in "bites," with a detailed table of contents, allowing the reader to skip around or read a small section during a downtime while preparing a meal (what I did.) While there are recipes included, this is more reference book than cookbook. However, I would recommend keeping your copy in your kitchen to grab a glance at while you are waiting for your next pot to boil.
** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review **
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