The American Lighthouse Cookbook: The Best Recipes and Stories from America's Shorelines

Food writer and editor Epstein and chef Jackson set out to document the flavors found along Americas coastlines but they ended up with much more: a state-of-the-nation snapshot, displaying all of the U.S.'s culinary peculiarities. Profiling 47 different lighthouses ringing the coast, many more than a hundred years old, the duo offer menus from all eras, showcasing local produce and regional favorites. Many are expected: Clam Chowder, Baked Beans and Crab Cakes from the Atlantic coast, Pulled Pork from the Carolinas, Conch Fritters from the Virgin Islands, traditional beanless Texas Chili, and Vegetarian Spring Rolls from California are included among nearly 300 recipes. Surprises include everything from Alligator Gumbo to Poached Peaches with Puff Pastry Biscuits and Lavender Cream. Menu diversions include a hunt club dinner menu from the 1930s (including oyster stew, roasted venison loin and shrimp paste with toast points) and a menu that salutes the Portugese fishermen of New England (Johnny Cakes, Kale and Chorizo soup, Grilled Bluefish topped with salsa). Those with a connection to the lighthouses profiled will get the most out of the book, but even landlubbers will find new favorites among this surprisingly rich haul of Americana cooking.