Has anybody heard of a cookbook that tracks local food culture in the absence of Elitism? There's a lot of wisdom in food cultures, but so much of what we see as other cultures' foods has come out of the Elite of that culture. These manifestations of food culture have come about out of the desire for the Elite to present an ostentatious display of flavor and riches, not out food's natural nutritious qualities. What I would like to see is how, in post-scarcity or semi-scarcity conditions, a food culture evolves for the sake of food (rather than for a showy display). NBWhen we start asking questions like these (and what benefits were contained within that local food culture), we begin to realize how much the human race has lost in its pursuit of glory and power. Anyway, any cookbook that fits this description would be great.
I think you'll find this info more in an essay format. (Curry: of cooks and conquerors, Salt) I'd look to anarchist presses, MEN/Rodale, lefty bookstore. also sociology departments. there's a worthy project in your question!
I'm not sure this is exactly what you're wanting, but I have a childrens' cookbook here that seems to fit your description. It's called The Kids' Multicultural Cookbook, by Deanna F Cook. The recipes are all based on locally available foods - not imported goodies, which would seem to me to be the "native" diet. There are 41 countries represented, and most of the recipes are inexpensive & simple - but definitely give you the feeling of "trying something different." Being an educational cookbook, there are short paragraphs preceding each recipe describing what makes it a "native recipe," and while it's geared towards children it is QUITE informative! love, mom
