Thomas Jefferson's Creme Brulee: How a Founding Father and His Slave James Hemings Introduced French Cuisine to America

Thomas J. Craughwell

Mar 2013 · Tantor Media Inc · Narrated by Alan Sklar

About this audiobook

In 1784, Thomas Jefferson struck a deal with one of his slaves, nineteen-year-old James Hemings. The founding father was traveling to Paris and wanted to bring James along for a particular purpose-to master the art of French cooking. In exchange for James's cooperation, Jefferson would grant his freedom.Thus began one of the strangest partnerships in United States history. As Hemings apprenticed under master French chefs, Jefferson studied the cultivation of French crops (especially grapes for winemaking) so that they might be replicated in American agriculture. The two men returned home with such marvels as pasta, French fries, Champagne, macaroni and cheese, creme brulee, and a host of other treats. This narrative history tells the story of their remarkable adventure.

About the author

Thomas J. Craughwell is the author of several nonfiction books, including This Saint Will Change Your Life, The Greatest Brigade, and Stealing Lincoln's Body, which was adapted into a documentary by the History Channel.

Audie Award finalist Alan Sklar has narrated nearly two hundred audiobooks and has won several AudioFile Earphones Awards.