Alexander Lee

The first picnics were a favourite pastime of the aristocracy, and purely indoor affairs. In the 19th century, the emergent middle classes moved lunch outdoors.

While finding its origins in royal Aztec feasts, the history of the enchilada is more a product of colonialism and prejudice than authentic heritage.

Travelling the world with the diaspora, jerk is an artefact of Jamaica’s troubled colonial history and a powerful testament to the island’s centuries-long quest for freedom.

The ancient origin of sushi, the Japanese dish of humble beginnings that conquered the world.

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.