CUSTOMS, CULTURE & CUISINE

by Kathleen Tracy

While Northern Africa was well known to Europeans going back to antiquity, sub-Saharan Africa was mostly unknown, except for a few trading posts in certain coastal settlements. What they ultimately discovered about the Dark Continent was a diverse population with vibrant cultures and traditions. Africa’s geography has created distinct regions: the North African region between the Mediterranean and the Sahara, the tropical countries of West Africa, the grasslands of Central Africa, the highlands in East Africa’s horn, and South Africa’s mountains. This book will introduce the reader to each region’s traditional cuisine and unique signature dishes made with locally grown ingredients. The Customs, Culture & Cuisine series explores the world’s most influential societies. Each volume provides a better understanding of their history and culture while showing how those elements impact and inform their cuisine and culinary styles. From key customs to traditional celebrations, food unites them all.

by Peter Douglas

As one of the oldest civilizations on the planet, China has a long and colorful history that has spawned many unique customs and a culture of rich traditions developed over 5,000 years of war and revolution, and achievement and discovery. As the most populated country on the planet, it makes sense that China has a diverse variety of cuisines spanning across its massive expanse. All eight major cuisine types are examined in Chinese, from the mild flavors of Guangdong to the sizzling heat of Hunan and everything in between. The Customs, Culture & Cuisine series explores the world’s most influential societies. Each volume provides a better understanding of their history and culture while showing how those elements impact and inform their cuisine and culinary styles. From key customs to traditional celebrations, food unites them all.

by Kimberly Gasuras

The regions of Greece, including Athens and Attica, the Peloponnese, Northern Greece, and Central and Western Greece, have all contributed to the history of this amazing and interesting country. From the mountains of Macedonia to the farthest island in the Aegean Sea, the Greek culture is as varied as the land. Greek reveals the history of each region of Greece and explores Greek cuisine and the wide range of national dishes, including the ingredients needed to cook each one. Discover the story of each dish, which region it came from, and how it fits into today’s Greek culture. The Customs, Culture & Cuisine series explores the world’s most influential societies. Each volume provides a better understanding of their history and culture while showing how those elements impact and inform their cuisine and culinary styles. From key customs to traditional celebrations, food unites them all.

by Kathleen Tracy

With 1.2 billion people, India is the second-most populous country on Earth and arguably the most diverse. During its history, which spans more than five thousand years, the subcontinent was variously ruled by both home-grown leaders and foreign conquerors. Each era added to the blend of traditions, ethnicities, languages, faiths, festivals, and the arts that make India the country it is today. Perhaps nothing better reflects Indian diversity and its people than the country’s rich, varied cuisine. Indian takes a look at each region's signature dishes and spices and at how cooking in India is an expression of family togetherness, friendship, and community connection. The Customs, Culture & Cuisine series explores the world’s most influential societies. Each volume provides a better understanding of their history and culture while showing how those elements impact and inform their cuisine and culinary styles. From key customs to traditional celebrations, food unites them all.

by Alexa Baczak

Have you ever wondered where pizza comes from? Italian not only answers this question but also dives into the history of pasta, risotto, and several other Italian foods, from popular to obscure. Learn about the rich and colorful culture of Italy and the way it has informed one of the world’s favorite types of food. Italian covers all the regions of Italy to explore how food is made and celebrated throughout the country. From Naples and Milan to Rome and Tuscany, it’s all here. When it comes to Italian cuisine, pizza is just the beginning. The Customs, Culture & Cuisine series explores the world’s most influential societies. Each volume provides a better understanding of their history and culture while showing how those elements impact and inform their cuisine and culinary styles. From key customs to traditional celebrations, food unites them all.

by Danielle Gillespie

Mexican cuisine is found in restaurants all over the world. The authentic dishes people associate with Mexico all have roots in Mesoamerican customs and European trade, with regional highlights creating a tapestry of flavor and culture. From the ranchero plains of El Norte and Baja to the tropical jungle of the Yucatan peninsula and colorful Oaxaca, Mexico offers cuisine richly infused with history, tradition, and nature. Learn about Mexican celebrations and festivals and how food plays a role; the variety of naturally found ingredients and how they affect regional trademark recipes; and the impact of Colonial-era settlers on the country’s food production. The Customs, Culture & Cuisine series explores the world’s most influential societies. Each volume provides a better understanding of their history and culture while showing how those elements impact and inform their cuisine and culinary styles. From key customs to traditional celebrations, food unites them all.

by Eric Benac

Over the last few years, Middle Eastern food has become popular in mainstream American culture. However, the roots of this cuisine stretch back to the dawn of man. It’s a region with a fascinating combination of strict, ancient traditions and new, modern ideas. The Middle East's sweeping geography, history, and religion have allowed for the emergence of unique and engaging cuisine cultures. Every region has a culinary history and tradition of its own, from the shores of Bahrain to the deserts of Iraq. The Customs, Culture & Cuisine series explores the world’s most influential societies. Each volume provides a better understanding of their history and culture while showing how those elements impact and inform their cuisine and culinary styles. From key customs to traditional celebrations, food unites them all.