A Taste of Molecules

A delicious exploration of what creates the flavors we love—and why our taste buds respond to them—in a fascinating, "very pleasant and easy read" ( Flanders Today).   In this unique scientific study of food, drink, and how the human taste buds sense taste, food journalist Diane Fresquez brings readers along on a journey of gastronomic discovery.   She begins by following a Belgian beekeeper who uses science to give the ancient drink of mead (or "honey wine") a modern taste-makeover. Fresquez then travels to Holland to learn how food memories are tested at a research center called the Restaurant of the Future. And elsewhere, she discovers how much skill it takes to make banana flavor in the lab, and experiments on a group of scientists during a surprise meal eaten in the dark.   Stuffed with fascinating food facts, anecdotes from the author's own culinary life, and a selection of irresistible recipes (including a cocktail with dancing molecules), A Taste of Molecules is an exploration of the senses that will delight foodies and science enthusiasts alike.