One Foot in the Kitchen: A Socio-Historical Look at the Work of Black Cooks in Brazil by Tais De Sant Anna Machado

A Culinary Journey Through Brazilian History

One Foot in the Kitchen is a captivating exploration of the role of Black cooks in shaping Brazilian cuisine and culture. Tais De Sant Anna Machado takes readers on a culinary journey through time, showcasing the contributions of African slaves, freedmen, and contemporary chefs to Brazil's rich culinary heritage.

The Heart of Brazilian Cuisine

Machado argues that Black cooks have been the driving force behind the development of Brazilian cuisine, blending African, European, and indigenous influences to create a unique and vibrant culinary landscape. She highlights the importance of Black cooks in shaping regional dishes, such as feijoada, acarajé, and moqueca, and demonstrates how their culinary skills have influenced the nation's identity.

A Celebration of Black Culinary Excellence

One Foot in the Kitchen is a celebration of Black culinary excellence and resilience. Machado profiles renowned Black chefs, such as Maria Aparecida Silva, Neide Rigo, and Jorge Washington, who have achieved international acclaim for their innovative and authentic cooking. These chefs are not only culinary masters but also cultural ambassadors, using their platforms to promote Black culture and empower marginalized communities.

A Call for Social Justice

Beyond its culinary insights, One Foot in the Kitchen is a powerful call for social justice. Machado exposes the historical and ongoing discrimination faced by Black cooks and highlights the need for greater recognition and support for their contributions. She argues that valuing and celebrating Black culinary heritage is essential for building a more inclusive and equitable society.

A Must-Read for Food Lovers and Historians

One Foot in the Kitchen is a must-read for food lovers, historians, and anyone interested in the intersection of food, culture, and social justice. Tais De Sant Anna Machado's meticulously researched and passionately written book sheds new light on the vital role of Black cooks in shaping Brazil's culinary identity and offers a compelling narrative that will leave readers hungry for more.

Key Features:

• Explores the socio-historical contributions of Black cooks to Brazilian cuisine
• Highlights regional dishes and their African, European, and indigenous influences
• Profiles renowned Black chefs and their impact on Brazilian gastronomy
• Addresses issues of discrimination and the need for social justice in the culinary industry
• Offers a comprehensive and engaging narrative, supported by extensive research

Praise for One Foot in the Kitchen:

"A groundbreaking work that sheds light on the often-overlooked role of Black cooks in shaping Brazilian cuisine. Machado's book is a must-read for anyone interested in food history, cultural anthropology, and social justice."

• Dr. Carlos Alberto Dória, Professor of History, University of São Paulo

"One Foot in the Kitchen is a delicious and thought-provoking exploration of the Black culinary experience in Brazil. Machado's writing is both informative and inspiring, and her passion for the subject shines through on every page."

• Chef Carla Hall, Co-Host of The Chew and Author of Carla Hall's Soul Food

"A timely and important book that challenges us to rethink our understanding of Brazilian cuisine and the role of Black cooks in shaping it. Machado's work is a valuable contribution to the fields of food studies, history, and sociology."

• Dr. Jessica B. Harris, Professor of American Studies and History, Queens College, City University of New York