“Cultural Feasts” explores the profound role of food in shaping cultural identity and community bonds across the globe. It delves into how specific dishes at global festivals become more than just meals; they transform into symbols of cultural heritage and historical memory. The book examines the stories behind these culinary traditions and how they have evolved over time, revealing fascinating insights into cultural values and historical experiences.

Did you know that communal meals reinforce social bonds and transmit cultural knowledge, fostering a sense of belonging, or that recipes can be analyzed as historical texts, tracing their evolution and identifying the cultural values they reflect?

The book approaches its subject matter by initially introducing core concepts, such as food as cultural heritage, before diving into case studies organized around major themes, like harvest festivals or religious celebrations. For instance, it examines the significance of matzah during Passover.

“Cultural Feasts” highlights how cultural exchange and globalization have impacted these traditions, leading to both preservation and adaptation and concludes with a discussion of the practical implications of understanding food's cultural significance.

Tessa Kwan

Books