Historian's Cookbook

Though long established as the national dish of Hungary, its origins lie with the rootless, itinerant stockmen who roamed the plains of medieval Mitteleuropa. 

The staple dish of the Middle East is as contested as the region, with different peoples claiming falafel’s origins as their own.

Rich enough to appeal to lords and dukes, the success of panettone through history is down to its festive, egalitarian simplicity.

The long, often troubled relationship between Britain and India has led to some extraordinary cross-cultural innovations in cuisine.

The story of the ‘mythical centre’ of French cuisine reflects the triumphs and tribulations of its people. 

Sweets made of ice or snow have been with us for millennia, evolving slowly into the modern chilly treat.

A staple of Russia and the Slavic world, borscht has inspired films and novels – and has even reached outer space.

The world’s most popular fast food has ancient roots, but it was a royal seal of approval in 1889 that set pizza on the path to global domination.