• GastroArt Publishing House brings to the fore one of the most extensive works dedicated to Romanian gastronomy: "Hand-kiss for the table! Cooking book", signed by Adriana Sohodoleanu and Cosmin Dragomir.
This monumental work, structured in two volumes totaling over 800 pages, represents a true encyclopedia of Romanian culinary heritage, exploring the regional and ethnic diversity of our cuisine. The project, supported by Carrefour Romania, is the result of in-depth research, which combined fieldwork with the study of archives and libraries.
The book is not just a collection of recipes, but a fascinating foray into the history, traditions and customs that define Romanian gastronomy. From the culinary rituals linked to religious holidays and important community moments, to the multicultural influences that have shaped tastes over the centuries, "Kiss the hand for the table!” reveals the richness of regional and ethnic micro-identities. Each region of Romania – from Moldova, with its famous coliva and cozonaci, to Transylvania, with its paprika and smoked meats, or Dobrogea, with its elaborate preparations – is represented through a careful selection of tested recipes and stories that reflect the spirit of the place.
A special chapter is dedicated to Moldova across the Prut, highlighting the cultural and culinary ties between the two banks of the river. At the same time, the volume sheds light on the mutual influences between ethnic communities in Romania, from Saxons and Hungarians to Serbs, Roma and Tatars, highlighting how cultural diversity has enriched local gastronomy.
A rediscovered culinary treasure
The work draws attention to the loss of many culinary traditions during the communist period, when the standardization of recipes led to the forgetting of some regional dishes and practices. Through their research, the authors bring back forgotten recipes and customs, offering a complex picture of what authentic Romanian cuisine means. The book includes dozens of tested recipes, some accompanied by detailed explanations and illustrations, making it accessible to both gastronomy enthusiasts and professionals in the culinary industry or researchers in ethnography and anthropology.
About the authors
Adriana Sohodoleanu, a gastronomy theorist and PhD in sociology, is a well-known voice in the field of food studies. With over a decade of experience exploring the connections between food and society, she regularly contributes to Radio România Cultural and has published works such as “What's new in the New Romanian Cuisine" (2023)
Cosmin Dragomir, a journalist and gastronomic editor, is a fervent promoter of Romanian culinary heritage, being co-initiator of the Law on the National Day of Gastronomy and Wine in Romania. Together, the two have also collaborated on ""Sweet Romania" (2022), a history of Romanian desserts.
An invitation to rediscover taste
"Kiss the hand for the table"! is more than a cookbook – enthusiastically received by gastronomic specialists, it is a monumental document that celebrates the diversity and multiculturalism of Romanian gastronomy. Whether you are passionate about cooking, interested in history or simply curious to discover the stories behind traditional dishes, this work invites you on a savory journey through the tastes and traditions of Romania. The book can be pre-ordered on Cărturești website, being an essential addition to any library dedicated to Romanian culture.
Photo source: Cărtureşti
Article written by Gabriela Dan, Editor-in-Chief Arta Albă
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