A clever and whimsical illustrated history of the most iconic all-American foods from Ambrosia to Zucchini Bread

American food is not quite a cuisine, but rather a ragtag inventory of dishes with native, national, and international influences. This captivating and surprising tour of America's culinary canon celebrates the variety, lore, and charm of the food we love to eat. Every entry, from A to Z, delves into the history of a national classic or regional treat, accompanied by practical tips and recipes for you to prepare. These distinctly American dishes, from Blueberry Pancakes and Fortune Cookies to Pepperoni Pizza and Shrimp and Grits, have rich and complex back stories that reach well beyond the borders of the United States. American Food: A Not-So- Serious History is both topical and entertaining in its exploration of US food culture, eating local and well, and bringing a sense of whimsy and not too much fuss to the table.