I’ve been slowly and enjoyably dipping in and out of this new book by historian Dr Jonathan Clements, a specialist on China and Japan. It’s subtitled ‘A History of China in 12 Meals’ and it’s a compelling book that tells the story of China’s history through its food, from the foxtail millet of the ancient world to the ubiquitous KFC. Clements has much to say about China’s gastronomic past - but equally about its post-pandemic future, and the future of Chinatowns around the world. Essential #lunarnewyear reading for anyone keen on Chinese food culture.
The book jacket pictured is from a review copy, but it’s out now, published by Hodder.
