Curry: A Tale of Cooks and Conquerors

[xcanuck]

One would think that, as a foodie of Indian heritage, I would know more about the food that I ate almost exclusively for the first 18 years of my life. I mean, I thought I did.

Apparently not. I'm just about finished Lizzie Collingham's book "Curry: A Tale of Cooks and Conquerors", which traces the origin of modern Indian cuisine, along with the historical factors that influenced it. It's a fascinating read, well written, easy to read (in spite of heavy historical detail, which usually makes my eyes glaze over), and is even well peppered with recipes. Above all, it's an eye opener.

Here's a more eloquently written review of the book than I could hope to write.

Anyone else read this?

[qwertyy]

Thanks for the recommendation. That looks really good--think I'll order it!

Have you had the chance to try out any of the recipes? How are they?

[xcanuck]

Thanks for the recommendation. That looks really good--think I'll order it!

Have you had the chance to try out any of the recipes? How are they?

I tried the recipe for kebabs and it turned out quite nicely. I wouldn't say there was anything really surprising about the recipe. Some of the others (like the vindaloo) seem a little different from the norm and I'm eager to give them a shot. But overall, just a fascinating book. I really do learn something new with the turn of every page.

[Tweaked]

Over heard at an Indian restaurant in Albany, NY circa 1991...white guy to his Indian dinner companion.

"So what is curry, a fruit? a vegetable?"