The Oxford Companion to Italian Food

A blend of cultural history, facts, practical information, and anecdote, this new companion to food, with a foreward by chef Mario Batali. This shall be the first in a series of food history companions devoted to regional cuisine. Forthcoming titles include French, Southeast Asian, and food of the British Isles.

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The popularity of Italian food all over the world is ever increasing. Unhampered by any sense of superiority, and unburdened by the weight of a great classical tradition, Italians cook and eat in the ways they have known and trusted for generations, absorbing new influences while cultivating and maintaining a distinct and esteemed gastronomic tradition.

Lovers of Italy, the Italian people, and their cuisine, from the general ravioli revering public to those with specialist skills and interests, will welcome this new A-Z reference. The Companion consists of a short introduction followed by entries covering a range of topics such as the universal appeal of Italian gastronomy, influences from outside Italy, dishes, ingredients, delicacies, obscure terms, cooking methods and implements, regional specialties, personalities, books and writers, and history.

This is an inspirational work providing an even blend of history, practical information, quotation, and anecdote.