TasteMakers by Mayukh Sen

Who is truly driving America’s craving for global foods? This group biography pays tribute to seven remarkable women who, as migrants, have left an indelible impact on the way Americans eat today. “Taste Makers” covers the period from World War II to the present, offering meticulously-researched portraits of notable figures such as Elena Zelayeta, a blind chef originally from Mexico; Marcella Hazan, the doyenne of Italian cuisine; and Norma Shirley, a passionate advocate for Jamaican dishes.

In vivid and imaginative prose, Mayukh Sen, a queer individual and child of immigrants, masterfully reshapes the narratives of these women with brilliant and empathetic detail. The narrative boldly raises questions about why some of these women were celebrated in their own time but not in ours, and why others continue to shine today. Weaving together histories of food, immigration, and gender, “Taste Makers” challenges conventional perspectives on what appears on our plates and the women whose tireless efforts make those meals possible.

This renowned book presents a captivating history of cooking that feels akin to savoring a delicious meal. It instills a sense of awe, and upon its conclusion, leaves a lingering sense of melancholy. Despite being undervalued throughout their lives, these women have made significant contributions, and the book serves as a joyous celebration of their culinary prowess. Their passion for food has fundamentally transformed the way Americans cook and eat.

These women courageously forged careers in the challenging terrain of the food industry. Each chapter provides insights into the obstacles they faced during their respective eras. The women featured in the book—Chao Yang Buwei, Elena Zelayeta, Madeleine Kamman, Marcella Hazan, Julie Sahni, Najmieh Batmanglij, and Norma Shirley—hail from different countries and have overcome struggles to achieve their goals. They have popularized flavors that challenged the prevailing palate of the nation, according to Mayukh Sen.

Despite their diverse backgrounds, these women exemplify the strength of unity, proving that nothing is impossible when one is focused on their goals. Despite encountering numerous obstacles, they persisted in their journeys, offering inspiring examples and serving as true role models.

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