There are a dozen types of memoirs, but one of my absolute favorites is a memoir about food. They guide you through the writer’s past in the most unique way using cuisine. Nothing is more dynamic, complex or enthralling than food — where it comes from and how it can impact your life. FoodSutra: A Memoir of the Foods of India is an exploration of Indian food culture, regions and dishes through the eyes of Shalabh Prasad. Through 400 Indian dishes, ancient traditions, and countless ingredients and spices, the reader embarks on a journey winding their way through the many regions and states of India.
In the memoir, Prasad discusses the importance of fish to Bengali food; he gives readers an overview of food from Bihari, his native state. From the popular Indian dishes of Punjab to the lesser known cuisines of Karnataka to the food that inspires Bollywood films in Mumbai, Prasad reminisces and reflects on the experiences he has had with specific dishes and regions. As someone who is only familiar with a handful of kinds of Indian cuisine, I thoroughly enjoyed hearing about Prasad’s own experiences growing up with it.
FoodSutra includes beautiful and colorful photographs of regional dishes and ingredients that will make your mouth water. Now, this isn’t a traditional recipe book. Although Prasad does detail how many dishes are prepared, FoodSutra really transports you to India and guides you through Indian culture and history, but in a more personal and reflective way.
Born in the state of Bihar in India, author Shalabh Prasad travelled widely in India during his college and working years. That travel sparked his curiosity and passion for Indian food. He later moved to the UK, but his work takes him back to India frequently. Shalabh has previously authored India: A Beginner’s History. He writes as Shalabh Prasad using his family surname, but is known in his personal life as Shalabh Kumar.
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