Fed, White, and Blue

March 1, 2015

Food Network personality Majumdar (Nicely Spiced) sets out to explore the diversity of American culinary cultures in advance of becoming a U.S. citizen. Starting locally, he insinuates himself into a Los Angeles Filipino restaurant, then branches out in unexpected directions: barbecuing in Nebraska, clam digging on the Jersey shore, surveying Central American foods in the Bronx. His appetite is sometimes terrifyingly prodigious, but the food often sounds delicious. The writing is witty and tart, though Majumdar is ever a gracious and appreciative guest. It's not all feasts--a trip to Texarkana is spent working with those combatting hunger in that community and reflecting on how so many can go unfed in this country. His journey leaves the author sure of his decision to make his home in America and the reader with a rich series of snapshots spotlighting parts of the country and their foods that deserve greater attention. VERDICT Part travelog, part culinary adventure, this breezy tome will satisfy many. Recommended where books on American cuisine and travel are popular.--Peter Hepburn, Coll. of the Canyons Lib., Santa Clarita, CA

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