Fermentation as Metaphor: Follow Up to the Bestselling "The Art of Fermentation"

The Art of Fermentation by Sandor Katz was published in 2012 and quickly became a bible for foodies, a runaway bestseller, and a James Beard Book Award winner. In Fermentation as Metaphor, Katz meditates on his art and work, drawing connections between microbial communities and aspects of human culture. He showcases fifty mesmerizing, original images of otherworldly beings from an unseen universe, exalting microbial life from the level of "germs" to that of high art. The book broadens and redefines our relationship with food and fermentation and is the perfect gift for serious foodies, fans of fermentation, and non-fiction readers alike.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2020
Publisher: Chelsea Green Publishing Co

The Los Angeles Times has compiled a list of the Best Cookbooks of 2020, featuring a diverse range of culinary masterpieces. Saveur Magazine has selected the Favorite Cookbook to Gift, while Esquire Magazine has named the Best Cookbooks of 2020. The book, written by bestselling author Sandor Katz, an "unlikely rock star of the American food scene" (New York Times), delves into the profound meanings of fermentation, offering something for everyone, regardless of their culinary expertise.

In 2012, Katz published "The Art of Fermentation," which quickly became a bible for foodies worldwide. The book was a runaway bestseller and a James Beard Book Award winner. Since then, Katz's work has inspired countless professionals and home cooks, bringing fermentation into the mainstream.

In "Fermentation as Metaphor," Katz explores his art and work, drawing connections between microbial communities and various aspects of human culture, including politics, religion, social and cultural movements, art, music, sexuality, identity, and even individual thoughts and feelings. He employs his extensive knowledge of the fermentation process to support his arguments, describing it as a slow, gentle, steady, yet unstoppable force for change.

Throughout the book, Katz showcases fifty mesmerizing, original images of otherworldly beings from an unseen universe—images of fermented foods and beverages that he has photographed using both a stereoscope and electron microscope. These images elevate microbial life from the level of "germs" to that of high art, challenging our perceptions and forcing us to reconceptualize the world around us.

Katz believes that by studying fermentation, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit. He encourages readers to embrace the beauty and complexity of microbial structures, which he believes can take us "far from absolute boundaries and rigid categories." He believes that fermentation can inspire us to be more creative, innovative, and open-minded in our approach to food and cooking.

In conclusion, "Fermentation as Metaphor" is a captivating and thought-provoking book that offers a unique perspective on fermentation and its profound implications for human culture. Written by a bestselling author with a vast knowledge of the fermentation process, the book showcases fifty mesmerizing images of otherworldly beings and encourages readers to reconceptualize the world around them. Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the world of fermentation and its potential to transform our culinary experiences.

Weight: 496g
Dimension: 211 x 208 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781645020219