The English Table

Our Food through the Ages

Jill Norman

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Hardback

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English

Reaktion Books
01 February 2025

History; History: specific events & topics; Cookery, food & drink

The English Table is a delectable journey through the culinary history of England, from ancient times to the present day. The book sheds light on the evolution of English cuisine, which essentially was the food of the rich

the poor had to manage as best they could until the 20th century.

Unveiling the secrets hidden in period cookery books, from the earliest known scroll of recipes

the 14th-century Forme of Cury

to modern classics such as Jane Grigson's English Food, each chapter is a culinary time capsule. Enriched with historical context, the book features carefully curated recipes from each era, offering a mouth-watering glimpse into the flavours that have shaped English culinary heritage.

'The English Table is an account of the continuity and change in the English diet over centuries that includes a brilliant assembly of carefully chosen recipes. Norman navigates both the history of food and the practical and sensory qualities of recipes with equal flair and authority.' - Bee Wilson, author of The Secret of Cooking: Recipes for an Easier Life in the Kitchen

'This story that spans centuries and is yet intimate is a delightful and fascinating way of learning about this country and understanding our eclectic tastes today.' - Claudia Roden, cookbook writer and cultural anthropologist

By: Jill Norman
Imprint: Reaktion Books
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 216mm, Width: 138mm,
Weight: 454g
ISBN: 9781789149333
ISBN 10: 1789149339
Pages: 240
Publication Date: 01 February 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active

Jill Norman is an award-winning editor, publisher, and food writer based in London. Her books include The New Penguin Cookery Book.

Reviews for The English Table: Our Food through the Ages

Winner: Best Book Published in English * The Roca Awards 2025 * Shortlisted: Food Book of the Year * Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Awards 2025 * The English Table is an account of the continuity and change in the English diet over centuries that includes a brilliant assembly of carefully chosen recipes. Jill Norman navigates both the history of food and the practical and sensory qualities of recipes with equal flair and authority. * Bee Wilson, author of The Secret of Cooking: Recipes for an Easier Life in the Kitchen * This story that spans centuries and is yet intimate is a delightful and fascinating way of learning about this country and understanding our eclectic tastes today. * Claudia Roden, cookbook writer and cultural anthropologist * A beautifully brisk and no-nonsense trot through the entirety of British food history – ambitious and highly readable. * Annie Gray, author of At Christmas We Feast: Festive Food through the Ages * Packed with delicious details and expertly sourced examples, The English Table takes the reader on a rich culinary journey to tell the story of Britain through the lens of food. * Polly Russell, food historian and curator at the British Library *