Thin crust, Chicago deep-dish or Sicilian; there are countless ways to create the dish called pizza, and the debate over the best way to cook it never ends. Carol Helstosky documents the fascinating history and cultural life of this chameleon-like food in "Pizza". Originally a food for the poor in eighteenth-century Naples, pizza is a source of national and regional pride in Italy as well as of cultural identity. In the twentieth century, pizza followed Italian immigrants to America, where it became the nation's most popular dish and fuelled the rise of successful fast-food corporations such as Pizza Hut and Domino's. Pizza has been adapted to local cuisines and has become a metaphor for cultural exchanges. From the world's largest pizza, which was 37.4 metres (122 ft 8 in) in diameter, to the most expensive sprinkled with edible 24-carat gold shavings pizza is one of the world's best-loved and most adaptable dishes. "Pizza" also features several tasty recipes and a wealth of illustrations. Whether you love sausage and onions on your pizza or just unadorned cheese, "Pizza" will satisfy even the pickiest of readers.

About the Author
Carol Helstosky is Associate Professor of History at the University of Denver, USA. She is the author of Garlic and Oil: Politics of Food in Italy (2004) and Food Culture in the Mediterranean (forthcoming, 2009).

Reviews
'Pizza may be considered quite a simple dish, but its history is a different story and Pizza: A Global History is the perfect book to uncover all the twists and turns in the delicacy's past. From how the first example was created, to the law for the protection of the Neapolitan pizza in 2004, you will discover it all. Plus don't miss the lovely recipes at the end.' - Taste Italia Pizza offers a succinct overview of food history, with impressive analytical heft for a book of its size.' - Gastronomica 'Fascinating and well researched. Carol Helstosky is a food writer deserving of a space on your bookshelf and I look forward to reading more from her.' - MostlyFood.co.uk



Book Information
ISBN 9781861893918
Author Carol Helstosky
Format Hardback
Page Count 144
Imprint Reaktion Books
Publisher Reaktion Books