Sophie D. Coe was an anthropologist and food historian whose work centered on the fascinating history of chocolate. Through her research into native New World cuisines and her deep dive into chocolate's past, she significantly enriched the field of culinary history. Her writings are known for their depth, meticulousness, and ability to bring the past to the table.
After long weeks of boring, perhaps spoiled sea rations, one of the first things Spaniards sought in the New World was undoubtedly fresh food. Drawing on original accounts by Europeans and native Americans, this work offers a description of the cuisines of the Aztecs, the Maya, and the Inca.
"Begins with the origins of the cacao tree and follows the story up to today's mass-produced chocolate candy and its expensive boutique counterparts...A pleasure not just for chocoholics but for anyone who enjoys lively, thorough historical sleuthing via the printed page." [Gourmet] (Cover)