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Dixie Lee Poche

“When it comes to swining and dining in Louisiana, Dixie Poché has it covered. From snout to tail . . . it’s all here.” —Chef John D. Folse, Louisiana’s “Culinary Ambassador to the World” 

Southwest Louisiana is famous for time-honored gatherings that celebrate its French Acadian heritage. And the culinary star of these gatherings? That’s generally the pig. Whether it’s a boucherie, the Cochon de Lait in Mansura or Chef John Folse’s Fete des Bouchers, where an army of chefs steps back three hundred years to demonstrate how to make blood boudin and smoked sausage, ever-resourceful Cajuns use virtually every part of the pig in various savory delights. Author Dixie Poché traverses Cajun country to dive into the recipes and stories behind regional specialties such as boudin, cracklings, gumbo and hogs head cheese. From the Smoked Meats Festival in Ville Platte to Thibodaux’s Bourgeois Meat Market, where miles of boudin have been produced since 1891, this is a mouthwatering dive into Cajun devotion to the pig.

“Dixie Poche, author of two other looks at the state’s rich culinary traditions, Louisiana Sweets and Classic Eateries of Cajun Country, takes a deep dive into the connection of Louisiana’s unique people and food with the noble hog.” —Houma Today

“The book takes a nostalgic look at visiting old-time ‘mom and pop’ Cajun meat markets and provides a behind-the-scenes look at the many dishes that made them famous. It also serves as a travel guide to many local eateries and festivals in which the culinary star is the pig.” —The Advocate

The History Press

American Palate

Cajun Pig: Boucheries, Cochon de Laits and Boudin

Stella Fong

Explore the big, wild flavors of Montana with this collection of recipes and stories from Big Sky Country’s culinary trailblazers.

With more than eighty recipes and stunning photography, writer and Montana radio host Stella Fong combines cherished local ingredients with world flavors. Sourced from waterways, mountains, plains and local farmers’ markets, Montana's resources shine in a diverse array of savory and sweet applications.

Dishes like Pheasant Stir-Fry with Black Bean Sauce and Elk Kielbasa with Pomegranate bring international flair to familiar game. Rhubarb Raspberry Polenta Cake and Pavlova Roulade with Sour Cherry Sauce and Toasted Almonds give new life to market and garden staples. And stories of local chef, farmers, and others pay tribute to the Treasure State's abundance. Flavors Under the Big Sky offers a fresh take on Big Sky Country’s finest fare.

Flavors under the Big Sky: Recipes and Stories from Yellowstone Public Radio & Beyond

Joy Sheffield Harris

This Florida Book Awards Gold Medal-winner in the Cooking category celebrates the Sunshine State’s culinary heritage—from turtle soup to boiled peanuts.

Though starting in one-story shacks in the piney woods of the Panhandle, Cracker cooking in Florida has evolved with our tastes and times and is now just as home in high-rise apartments along the glistening waterways.

When supplies were limited and the workday arduous, black coffee with leftover cornbread might serve as breakfast. Today’s bounty and life’s relative ease bring mornings with lattes and biscotti, biscuits and sausage gravy. What’s on the plate has changed, but our heritage infuses who we are. As we follow the path laid out by gastronomic pioneers, this culinary quest, guided by sixth-generation Cracker Joy Sheffield Harris, will whet your appetite with recipes and sumptuous reflections. Pull up a chair and dig in.

The Florida Cracker Cookbook: Recipes & Stories from Cabin to Condo

Erin Thursby

A vibrant history of Florida’s horticultural heritage and the colorful personalities who made the state synonymous with citrus.

In the 16th century, Ponce de León planted the first orange groves in St. Augustine, Florida. They were the precursor to what would become an integral part of Florida’s identity. Orange groves slowly spread across the state, inspiring agricultural innovations and manufacturing ingenuity. Now Florida food writer Erin Thursby reveals the surprisingly colorful history of Florida’s most famous crop.

Discover the story behind Deland’s eccentric “citrus wizard” Lue Gim Gong; the rise and fall of smuggler Jesse Fish; and the silver-tongued politician William J. Howey, who made his fortune selling plots of groveland through the 1920s. Celebrate the heyday of orange tourism and the farmers who weathered freezes, floods and citrus greening. From the old roots of orange cultivation in Northeast Florida to the new center of oranges in the Southwest, Thursby offers a unique historical tour of the Sunshine State.

Florida Oranges: A Colorful History

Jim Farfaglia

Devour this delectable, surprising history of one of America’s most beloved confectioners with photos, firsthand accounts, and stories.

In 1898, Switzerland’s Nestlé Company was searching for a location to build its first milk processing plant in the United States. Upstate New York’s bountiful dairy farms sealed the deal for a factory in Fulton. Soon another Swiss company requested space at the factory to produce a confection that had taken Europe by storm: the milk chocolate bar. Over the next century, factory technicians invented classic treats including the Nestlé Crunch Bar, Toll House Morsels, and Nestlé Quik. 

With 1,500 workers churning out a million pounds of candy per day, Fulton became known as the city that smelled like chocolate. In this lively, photo-filled biography, Jim Farfaglia recounts the delectable history of Nestlé in Fulton, New York.

Nestlé in Fulton, New York: How Sweet It Was

Jean Petersen

Barrie Boulds

“A showcase for Montana ingredients. There are hunter favorites such as elk and deer and some more rare delicacies like rattlesnake or beaver. ” —Bozeman Daily Chronicle

From mountain streams in the west to rolling prairies in the east, Montana’s habitats and natural resources offer an abundance of culinary possibilities. The mountains provide the necessities for a delightful elk tenderloin with huckleberry demi-glace, while the prairie contributes to rattlesnake cakes with roasted red pepper remoulade. And gardens and farms statewide produce the makings of Aunt Lois O’Toole’s rhubarb strawberry pie. Chef Barrie Boulds and author Jean Petersen present locally sourced epicurean dishes that exude Montanan charm. Historical context enhances seventy-five easy yet sophisticated recipes celebrating unique flavors and heritage—with forewords from Chef Eric Trager and Western Ag Reporter editor Linda Grosskopf.

“With over seventy recipes melting with Montanan history, The Big Sky Bounty is sure to be a cookbook worth shelf space for every self-respecting western cook. ” —Women Writing the West

“Recipes range from the kind of soul food you might expect—like the Elk Chili and Native American Gaboo Boo Bread—to the finer Roasted Squab with Grapes … Although the book offers a strong nod to gourmet cooking, the recipes are not complicated, and the ingredients are honest and straightforward. ” —Yellowstone Valley Woman

The Big Sky Bounty Cookbook: Local Ingredients and Rustic Recipes

Amy M. Strauss

“[Strauss] traces the history and culture of the Pennsylvania Dutch staple and checks-in on chefs who are creating exciting new ways to eat it.” —Philly Grub

The name may remind you of a certain word-based board game, but scrapple has been an essential food in Mid-Atlantic kitchens for hundreds of years, the often-overlooked king of breakfast meats. Developed by German settlers of Pennsylvania, scrapple was made from the “scraps” of meat cut from the day’s butchering to avoid waste. Pork trimmings were stewed until tender, ground like sausage, and blended with broth, cornmeal, and buckwheat flour. Crispy slabs of scrapple sustained the Pennsylvanians through the frigid winter months and brutal harvest months, providing them with a high-energy and tasty breakfast meal that people enjoy even today.

“Strauss digs deep into what makes the divisive breakfast staple so misunderstood, yet so important to its home state.” —Lehigh Valley Live

Pennsylvania Scrapple: A Delectable History

“Tells the tales of some of Florida’s most famous desserts, from Key lime pie to citrus candy to the famous feud cake at Captain Anderson’s Restaurant.” —Panama City News Herald 

Sweets and the Sunshine State are a match made in heaven. Centuries ago, native Floridians used honey to sweeten dishes, as well as prickly pears and other wild fruits and berries. Spanish explorers introduced citrus to the area, leading to a major industry. Florida pioneers planted sugar cane and sweet potatoes as basic crops. Cane grinding, taffy pulls and homemade ice cream socials were once beloved community events across the state. The state pie of Florida, the Key lime pie, has been an addition to family affairs and restaurant menus since its inception in the late 1800s. From strawberry festivals to Florida flan, author Joy Sheffield Harris uncovers the state’s unique sweets with a taste of sunshine.

Florida Sweets: Key Lime Pie, Kumquat Cake & Citrus Candy

Anne W. Martin

“A destination book filled with tales of intrigue and eccentricity . . . [about] a distinct strain of hot tamales born deep in the Mississippi Delta.” —Eat Y’all

Several theories surround the traditional Delta tamale. Some trace it back to Mexican and Italian immigrants, while others say the Delta version of the hand-held meal is a spin on the old African American food called “cush.” One thing not disputed is the popularity. From hot tamale legends Joe Pope, Shine Thornton and the Scott family to current chefs, the traditions and the secret recipes live on. Writer and historian Anne Martin showcases the stories behind the traditional Delta hot tamale, as well as the countless variations of the delicacy found within the region.

“Author Anne Martin explains in her new book about the Mississippi Delta’s own version of hot tamales and why they have remained a staple of Delta cuisine for generations . . . Even if you’ve never tasted ‘the Delta’s favorite food,’ Martin’s book will have you running for the nearest hot tamale stand.” —Today in Mississippi

“Delta Hot Tamales: History, Stories & Recipes is not a traditional cookbook by any means. The book uses local food as a lens to explore the rich culture and history of an often misunderstood area in an often misunderstood state.” —Eat Y’all

“Serves up a historical record and a thorough look at the current status of this distinctive culinary treat.” —Clarion Ledger

Delta Hot Tamales: History, Stories & Recipes

Katherine J. Livie

This cultural and ecological history explores the rise of Chesapeake’s mighty mollusk from Colonial-era harvesting to contemporary cultivation.

Oysters are an essential part of Chesapeake Bay culture and cuisine, as well as the ecological and historical lifeblood of the region. When colonists first sailed these abundant shores, they described massive shoals of foot-long oysters. In later years, however, the bottomless appetite of the Gilded Age and great fleets of skipjacks took their toll. Disease, environmental pressures, and overconsumption decimated the population by the end of the twentieth century.

To combat the problem, Virginia began leasing its waters to private oyster farmers. Today, these boutique oyster farms are sustainably meeting the culinary demand of a new generation of connoisseurs. But in Maryland, passionate debate continues among scientists and oystermen whether aquaculture or wild harvesting is the better path. With careful research and interviews with experts, author Kate Livie presents this dynamic story and a glimpse of what the future may hold.

Chesapeake Oysters: The Bay's Foundation and Future

Mark DeNote

The founder and editor of Florida Beer News serves up the brewing history and craft brewery scene of the Sunshine State’s west coast destination city. 

More than thirty breweries currently call the Tampa Bay area home. With a history that spans a century, the brewing industry has experienced highs and lows. The end of Prohibition allowed more to join in on the brewers’ art. Anheuser-Busch’s emergence as a powerhouse caused a decades-long lull in craft brewing beginning in the 1960s. From the ceremonial brewing vessels of native peoples to the sleek brewhouses of modern craft brewers, the Bay area is a shining example of the developing trade. Author Mark DeNote recaps the sudsy history of beer makers in the Big Guava.

Tampa Bay Beer: A Heady History

Kelly Culler (Urig)

The author and filmmaker known as the “Chile Chica” serves up the pepper’s “role in New Mexico’s history, heritage, culture, and of course, cuisine” (SantaFe.com).

To some, chile might be considered a condiment, but in New Mexico it takes center stage. Going back four centuries, native tribes, Spanish missionaries, conquistadors and Anglos alike craved capsicum, and chile became infused in the state’s cuisine, culture and heritage. Beloved events like the annual Fiery Foods Show bring together thousands of artisans specializing in chile. The Chile Pepper Institute at New Mexico State University devoutly researches the complexity of chile and releases carefully crafted varieties. Legendary farms like Jimmy Lytle’s in Hatch and Matt Romero’s in Alcalde carry on generations-old practices in the face of dwindling natural resources. Acclaimed restaurants continue to find inspiration in chile, from classic dishes to innovative creations. Join local author and award-winning documentary filmmaker “Chile Chica” Kelly Brinn Urig for the enchanting history of chile.

“A colorful book loaded with photos, most taken by Urig as she traveled the state interviewing people and tasting traditional foods . . . The Chile Chica and her generation are the future of the chile industry if it’s to survive. Pay attention to them.” —Santa Fe Travelers

“For both the film and the book she let chile and the people who grow it and cook it do the talking.” —Albuquerque Journal

New Mexico Chiles: History, Legend and Lore

Farley Elliott

A history and guidebook for locals and visitors who want to explore the flavorful delights of the nation’s street food capital—includes photos!

Los Angeles is the uncontested street food champion of the United States, and it isn’t even a fair fight. Millions of hungry locals and tourists take to the streets to eat tacos, down bacon-wrapped hot dogs, and indulge in the latest offerings from a fleet of gourmet food trucks and vendors. 

Dating back to the late nineteenth century when tamale men first hawked their fare from pushcarts and wagons, street food is now a billion-dollar industry in L.A.—and it isn’t going anywhere! So hit the streets and dig in with local food writer Farley Elliott, who tackles the sometimes-dicey subject of street food and serves up all there is to know about the greasy, cheesy, spicy, and everything in between.

Los Angeles Street Food: A History from Tamaleros to Taco Trucks

Frederick Douglass Opie

Explore the African American foodways of early 20th century Florida through the life, work, and recipes of a celebrated author and Sunshine State native.
 
 Author and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston did for Florida what William Faulkner did for Mississippi, providing insight into a state’s history and culture through various styles of writing. In this book, historian Fred Opie explores food as a recurring theme in Hurston’s life and work. Beginning with her childhood in Eatonville, Florida, and the foodways of her family, Opie goes on to explore Hurston’s ethnographic recording of dishes and recipes as well as natural food remedies.
 
 In other chapters, Opie examines African American foodways across Florida, including the importance of poultry and the social and political aspects of barbecue. Through simple dishes and recipes, foods prepared for everyday meals as well as special occasions, Opie offers a unique view of both Hurston and the food traditions in early twentieth-century Florida.

Zora Neale Hurston on Florida Food: Recipes, Remedies & Simple Pleasures

Tiffany Harelik

Get to know this West Texas region by tasting flavorful recipes, meeting the colorful locals, discovering the rich history, and much more.

Early settlers of the Big Bend honed a culture of self-reliance, resilience and creativity. Today, this is reflected in the diverse art, music and cuisine of the area that draw visitors undeterred by its isolation. Though sparsely populated, Big Bend is home to nationally acclaimed restaurants and chefs, as well as generations’ worth of family recipes. Travel town by town and plate by plate in this culinary and cultural tour through the Big Bend. Indulge in a slice of jalapeno chocolate cake from Lajitas. Taste the way Big Bend Brewery’s beer makes beef stew irresistible. Take a bite of an innovated classic with the rich pistachio fried steak in Marfa. From barbecued cabrito in Marathon and pozole in Fort Davis to adventures foraging in the desert, savor a part of Texas unlike any other. Author Tiffany Harelik guides the journey with interviews, history and, of course, recipes.

The Big Bend Cookbook: Recipes and Stories from the Heart of West Texas

Craig David Meek

The lifelong Memphian and food blogger “examines the history of the city one plate of barbecue at a time” (High Ground).

The city’s blues and soul music have lifted spirits, while barbecue has been a serious business ever since pork first entered the culinary landscape of Memphis with Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, who brought the New World its first herd of pigs. Succulent pulled pork and ribs have become part of the fabric of life in Bluff City, and today they are cooked up in kitchens ranging from the internationally acclaimed, like Corky’s, to the humblest of roadside dives. Told through the history of its barbecue is the story of the city of Memphis, from legendary joints like Leonard’s Barbecue, where Elvis Presley hosted private parties, to lesser-known places like William’s Bar-B-Q in the West Memphis, Arkansas neighborhood where wild, late-night blues juke joints served as a red-light district across the river from Beale Street in the 1950s and ’60s. Sink your teeth into this rich history chock-full of interviews and insights from the city’s finest pitmasters and ’cue gurus who continue the long tradition of creating art with meat and flame.

“There are some amazing moments in Memphis Barbecue—like Jim Neely speaking quite frankly about his TV celebrity nephew Pat Neely and John Willingham’s widow remembering the barbecue legend’s last day.” —Memphis Flyer

Memphis Barbecue: A Succulent History of Smoke, Sauce & Soul

Sally Lerman

A lobster roll aficionado reviews forty lobster rolls from restaurants around New England.

The mighty lobster roll is best enjoyed at a picnic table under a red umbrella accompanied by the sounds and smells of the sea. The perfect roll is all in the execution, and the variations are subtle but nearly endless—from top-sliced to buttered or mayonnaise-based. Blogger extraordinaire Sally Lerman chronicles her quest for the perfect bite in Lobster Rolls of New England. Savor mouthwatering descriptions of forty coastal lobster rolls, their storied venues, luscious photos and recipes for some of the lobster roll’s best complements. Discover the surprising history of the first trademarked lobster roll. Devour the very best New England has to offer, from Downeast Maine’s Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound to Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock in New London, Connecticut.

Lobster Rolls of New England: Seeking Sweet Summer Delight

Dann Woellert

Discover how the Ohio city’s unique dish came to be, how it gave way to legions of chili parlors, and how it become a million-dollar industry.

Cincinnati is certainly judged by its chili. Some claim it’s not even chili, but those are just fighting words to natives who have developed the crave. Cincinnati is a long way from El Paso, and our chili is not Tex-Mex style. It is a unique blend typically served as a three-way: over spaghetti and covered in shredded cheddar cheese. From its 1922 roots with the Slavic-Macedonian immigrant brothers Kiradjieff in a burlesque theater, Cincinnati chili has become a million-dollar industry supporting 250 chili parlors. Many chili parlors have come and gone, but a few familiar names remain: Dixie, Camp Washington, Gold Star, Price Hill and Skyline. This is their amazing chili story.

American Palate - The book series

American Palate - The book series

American Palate books in order

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