The Lore of Spices

by Jan-Öjvind Swahn

Clear, compact and anecdotal book, covers both the history and use of spices from ancient times to present -- in art, embalming, trade, politics, medicine, cosmetics and, of course, cooking. Second section alphabetically highlights 33 spices giving historical summary, characteristics and uses. ****250 color illus. & 25 b&w photos. 8-1/2 x 11-1/4.

Genres: Cooking

208 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1991

Reviews

[Walt · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick and well-written history of spices. There are no recipes, but the text does cover which spices were valued most at different times and for what reasons.

[Cole · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely for the geek, not a "fun" read. Informative.