The Making of Mamaliga: Transimperial Recipes for a Romanian National Dish

Mămăligă, a maize porridge or polenta, is a famous national symbol of Romania, but its unusual history has rarely been told. Alex Drace-Francis surveys the arrival and spread of maize cultivation in Romanian lands from Ottoman times to the First World War, and how it has been shaped by global economic forces and overlapping imperial systems of war and trade.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 226 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Central European University Press

Mămăligă, a beloved dish in Romania, holds a special place in the hearts of its people and serves as a vibrant national symbol. However, its intriguing history has often remained untold. In his comprehensive work, Alex Drace-Francis delves into the arrival and expansion of maize cultivation in Romanian lands, spanning from the Ottoman era to the eve of the First World War. Moreover, he explores the captivating portrayal of mămăligă in art and popular culture, shedding light on how global economic forces and interconnected imperial systems of war and trade have shaped its creation.

This captivating narrative offers a unique perspective on Romanian and broader regional history, making it accessible to a wide audience. By examining the history of production, consumption, and representation, the book establishes a profound connection between these realms. Through detailed analyses of recipes, literary and popular depictions, and key vocabulary, Drace-Francis completes this work, providing a comprehensive and enriching exploration of the world of maize and mămăligă.

This book is a valuable addition to the field of history, offering insights into the complex interplay of cultural, economic, and political factors that have shaped the history of Romania and its neighboring regions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the past to shape the future, and encourages readers to explore the rich tapestry of history that surrounds us.

Weight: 310g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789633866245