The Primal Cheeseburger: A Generous Helping of Food History Served Up on a Bun

by Elisabeth Rozin

Here is a witty look at the powerful appeal of that ubiquitous American classic and universal food phenomenon, the cheeseburger platter. Elisabeth Rozin traces the historical, cultural, and culinary roots of each element - burger, cheese, bun, ketchup, lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, fries, and, of course, Coca Cola - in search of the significance of its tantalizing allure. After all, this unique combination of red meat, fat, sugar, and salt violates all that is nutritionally and politically correct in the 90s, yet we can't resist it. The Primal Cheeseburger is an entertaining exploration of why this particular mix of textures, tastes, and smells evokes our carnivorous cravings and touches such a deep chord in our collective food consciousness.

Genres: Food, History, Nonfiction, Cooking

240 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1994

Reviews

[Emily]

I really enjoyed this short history of the iconic American meal - a cheeseburger with fries and a Coke. Rozin goes ingredient by ingredient, tracing its historical roots and how the discovery of the New World revolutionized it. It was a quick, entertaining, informative, witty and funny read that I really enjoyed!

[Ron]

An enjoyable look at the history and the interaction of the elements of a cheeseburger meal. You learn and get hungry. Enjoyable retreading as well.

[Diane in Australia]

3 Stars = Okay. I liked the book. It was worth reading.