"Tell me what you eat, and I will tell you what you are." This
oft-quoted maxim from celebrated gastronome Jean Anthelme
Brillat-Savarin, succinctly describes the connection between foodways
and identity.
First published in 1986 and now back in print, The Minnesota Ethnic Food
Book explores the rich landscape of food and cultural heritage by
describing the traditional foods and foodways of many of the state's
ethnic groups. Well-researched and thoughtfully written essays describe
the meals and customs that help families maintain ties to their past and
sustain a rich sense of ethnic heritage in their day-to-day lives.
More than 150 authentic recipes, collected from home cooks across the
state, impart the ethnic flavors of Minnesota. Included are recipes for
everyday tables--such as Swedish meatballs, Creole chicken, and Hmong
stir-fried chicken and vegetables--as well as foods for special
occasions--including Greek artichoke pilaf, German sauerbraten, and
Danish custard cream layer cake. The result is a carefully researched,
warm, and fascinating book that is all about people, foods, and enduring
values.