The Founding Foodies: How Washington, Jefferson, and Franklin Revolutionized American Cuisine

Dave DeWitt

Nov 2010 · Sourcebooks, Inc.

About this ebook

Ever wonder how certain foods came to be such huge staples of American culinary history? In this fascinating mashup between history book and cook book, one of America's Founding Fathers could be at the source!

Food writer Dave DeWitt entertainingly describes how some of America's most famous colonial leaders—like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin—not only established America's political destiny, but also revolutionized the very foods we eat.

Beyond their legacy as revolutionaries and politicians, the Founding Fathers of America were first and foremost a group of farmers. Like many of today's foodies, they ardently supported sustainable farming and ranching, exotic imported foods, brewing, distilling, and wine appreciation. Explore their passion for the land and the bounty it produced through an intriguing narrative, sprinkled with recipes that showcase their love of food and the art of eating that would ultimately become America's diverse food culture.

Features over thirty authentic colonial recipes, including:

• Thomas Jefferson's ice cream
• A recipe for beer by George Washington
• Martha Washington's fruitcake
• Medford rum punch
• Terrapin soup

Ratings and reviews

Great read to get a basic understanding of the role food played in our nation's history. Provides basis to help imagine the founding fathers on a more personal level. Enjoyed the book, and will likely re-read in the future.

AAA BOSS NETWORK

About the author

Dave DeWitt is a leading food expert. He has authored several books and has appeared everywhere from the Today show to Mythbusters. He has also been featured in the New Yorker, the New York Times, USA Today, and approximately 200 newspapers across the country.