The Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Awards are back, celebrating the best in food writing and broadcasting. This year’s shortlist highlights a rich diversity, from Chinese breakfasts to Balkan culinary traditions, showcasing the passion for food and culture.
Pam Brunton’s book, Between Two Waters: Heritage, Landscape and the Modern Cook, stands out in the Food Book of the Year category. She shares the stories behind our meals, blending heritage with modern cooking techniques. Brunton is up against Jill Norman and her book, The English Table: Our Food through the Ages, which explores the culinary journey of England. Also on the list are David Lane and Marina Tweed’s The Gourmand’s Lemon: A Collection of Stories and Recipes, which tells delightful tales tied to food.
In the Debut Food Book category, newcomers like Ben Gazur with A Feast of Folklore: The Bizarre Stories Behind British Food and Sally Abé with A Woman’s Place Is in the Kitchen are making waves. This shows a growing interest in the narratives that shape food culture today.
The Cookery Book category features impressive titles like Shu Han Lee’s Agak Agak, which brings Malaysian flavors home, and Zao Fan: Breakfast of China by Michael Zee, showcasing the importance of breakfast in Chinese cuisine.
The chosen books have been evaluated by experts based on originality, engagement, and visual appeal. The winners will be revealed on May 1 at Fortnum & Mason, announced by chef Andi Oliver and Angela Hartnett OBE.
This event reflects a wider trend in society, where food storytelling is more important than ever. Social media has changed how we interact with food, from Instagrammable dishes to TikTok recipes that go viral. People today want to connect with the stories and traditions behind what they eat, making these awards even more significant.
Additionally, as food waste becomes an urgent issue, books like Eleanor Bartlett’s Leftovers: A History of Food Waste and Preservation highlight the need for awareness and change in our consumption habits.
These awards not only honor literature; they encourage conversations about food culture, sustainability, and history. Stay tuned to see which authors take home the coveted awards.
For more on trends in food and drink literature, check out the latest insights from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on sustainability and consumption patterns in today’s world.