A Twist in the Tail: How the Humble Anchovy Flavoured Western Cuisine

A Twist in the Tail explores the history of anchovies in European and American gastronomy, revealing their ambiguous position and revealing insights into the relationship between food, class, and status throughout history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 18 July 2024
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

A Twist in the Tail takes readers on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of European and American gastronomic history, tracing the intriguing path of a small but mighty fish: the anchovy. Throughout history, anchovies have played a pivotal role in enhancing the flavors of countless dishes, from the ubiquitous Roman garum to the convenient British condiments, the elaborate French haute cuisine, and even the modern Spanish tapas. However, their status has fluctuated significantly depending on the time, place, and the individuals consuming them. At times, anchovies were revered as a valuable culinary ingredient, while at other times, they were dismissed as insignificant and unworthy of the attention of the masses or the elite. Christopher Beckman delves into the evolving and ambiguous position of anchovies, revealing their surprising insights into the relationship between food, class, and status throughout history. Drawing on a wide range of sources, including cookbooks, literature, and art, Beckman unveils the hidden story of the diminutive anchovy and its outsized role in shaping the Western cuisine.

Weight: 626g
Dimension: 150 x 223 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911723417