Quick Take

Planet Taco asks the question, "what is authentic Mexican food?" The burritos and taco shells that many people think of as Mexican were actually created in the United States, and Americanized foods have recently been carried around the world in tin cans and tourist restaurants. But the contemporary struggle between globalization and national sovereignty to determine the meaning of Mexican food is far from new. In fact, Mexican food was the product of globalization from the very beginning -- the Spanish conquest -- when European and Native American influences blended to forge the mestizo or mixed culture of Mexico. The historic struggle between globalization and the nation continued in the nineteenth century, as Mexicans searching for a national cuisine were torn between nostalgic "Creole" Hispanic dishes of the past and French haute cuisine, the global food of the day. Indigenous foods, by contrast, were considered strictly d class . Yet another version of Mexican food was created in the U.S. Southwest by Mexican American cooks, including the "Chili Queens" of San Antonio and tamale vendors of Los Angeles. When Mexican American dishes were appropriated by the fast food industry and carried around the world, Mexican elites rediscovered the indigenous roots of their national cuisine among the ancient Aztecs and the Maya. Even this Nueva Cocina Mexicana was a transnational phenomenon, called "New Southwestern" by chefs in the United States. Rivalries within this present-day gourmet movement recalled the nineteenth-century struggles between Creole, Native, and French foods. Planet Taco also seeks to recover the history of people who have been ignored in the struggles to define authentic Mexican, especially those who are marginal to both nations: Indians and Mexican Americans.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Planet Taco: A Global History of Mexican Food

Introduction

Planet Taco: A Global History of Mexican Food by Jeffrey M. Pilcher is a scholarly exploration of Mexican food that delves into its rich history and the various influences that have shaped it. From the origins of corn and the impact of colonialism to the globalization of Mexican cuisine, this book offers a comprehensive and engaging look at the complex relationship between food, culture, and identity.

About Jeffrey M. Pilcher

Jeffrey M. Pilcher, the author of Planet Taco, is a professor of history at the University of California, Davis. With a background in Mexican history and food studies, Pilcher brings a unique perspective to the subject matter, offering readers a deep understanding of the historical context behind Mexican food.

Analysis of Views

Historical Depth: Readers appreciate the depth of research and historical context provided by Pilcher in Planet Taco. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of corn and the impact of colonialism to the globalization of Mexican cuisine. This comprehensive exploration of Mexican food history is a major draw for readers interested in understanding the subject in its entirety.
Engaging Writing Style: Many readers find Pilcher's writing style engaging and accessible. Despite the book's academic nature, Pilcher manages to present complex ideas in a way that is easy to understand and enjoyable to read. This makes Planet Taco a great choice for both academic researchers and general readers interested in food history.
Interdisciplinary Approach: The book takes an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating elements of history, sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies. This broad scope allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the various factors that have influenced Mexican food, including politics, economics, geography, and social and racial consequences.
Relevance to Modern Issues: Many readers appreciate how Pilcher connects the history of Mexican food to current political and economic issues. By examining the impact of NAFTA, immigration, and globalization on Mexican cuisine, Pilcher provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between food, culture, and politics in contemporary times.
Visual Aids: The inclusion of photographs, maps, and recipes in Planet Taco enhances the reading experience for many readers. These visual aids help to illustrate the concepts discussed in the book and provide a tangible connection to the subject matter.

Reasons for Recommendation

Comprehensive Exploration: Planet Taco offers a comprehensive exploration of Mexican food history that covers a wide range of topics, from the origins of corn to the globalization of Mexican cuisine. This breadth makes it a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between food, culture, and identity in Mexico.
Engaging Writing Style: Pilcher's engaging writing style makes the book accessible to readers with varying levels of expertise. Whether you're a food enthusiast or an academic researcher, you'll find Pilcher's writing style both informative and enjoyable to read.
Interdisciplinary Approach: The interdisciplinary approach taken by Pilcher allows readers to gain insights into various factors that have influenced Mexican food, including politics, economics, geography, and social and racial consequences. This holistic perspective enriches the understanding of the subject matter.
Relevance to Modern Issues: By connecting historical events to current political and economic issues, Pilcher provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between food, culture, and politics in contemporary times. This relevance makes Planet Taco a timely and relevant read for those interested in understanding the broader implications of globalization on cultural identity.
Visual Aids: The inclusion of photographs, maps, and recipes adds depth to the book and helps readers visualize the concepts discussed. These visual aids enhance the overall reading experience and provide a tangible connection to the subject matter.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Density of Information: Some readers find Planet Taco dense with information, which may make it challenging to read through at times. While this depth is appreciated by those interested in a comprehensive exploration of Mexican food history, it may be overwhelming for those seeking a more accessible read.
Limited Focus on Culinary Experience: While Planet Taco provides valuable insights into the historical context behind Mexican cuisine, some readers feel that it lacks a focus on the culinary experience itself. They would have appreciated more detailed descriptions of flavors, textures, and cooking techniques associated with various dishes mentioned in the book.

Conclusion

Planet Taco: A Global History of Mexican Food by Jeffrey M. Pilcher is a comprehensive exploration of Mexican food history that delves into its origins, influences, and global impact. With its engaging writing style, interdisciplinary approach, relevance to modern issues, and visual aids, this book offers readers a deep understanding of the complex relationship between food, culture, and identity in Mexico. While some readers find it dense with information or lacking in a focus on culinary experience, overall, Planet Taco is highly recommended for those interested in food history, cultural studies, and the broader implications of globalization on cultural identity.