From the author of the beloved New York Times bestseller Born to
Kvetch comes an entertaining and informative look at the social history
of Jewish food. Bagels, kosher hot dogs, pickles, deli sandwiches, and
rye bread are just a few of the Jewish dishes that have become staples
in American homes. Born to Nosh examines where these foods came from,
how they have changed over time, the role certain dishes played in
Jewish culture in Europe, and the role they play in Jewish and American
food culture today.
Novelist, professor, and comedy performer Michael Wex has an intimate
knowledge of the Yiddish language and Jewish culture. Raised in a
strictly kosher household, he spent many subsequent years eating
everything but kosher food, and then started to crave the dishes he
remembered from childhood. In Born to Nosh, he takes us on a
fascinating and humorous journey across oceans and time, and examines
how many of today's popular foods made their way from Europe to America.
From chicken soup to cheesecake, Wex explores how and why Jewish food is
sold, packaged, and perceived today. Born to Nosh is a delicious blend
of sociology, history, religion, folklore, and humor that will satisfy
food lovers everywhere.
