The Cuisines of Mexico by Diana Kennedy Value Guide

Published in 1972, this seminal work by Diana Kennedy revolutionized the English-speaking world's understanding of authentic regional Mexican gastronomy. It remains a highly sought-after collectible because it moved beyond Tex-Mex tropes to document meticulous, field-researched traditional recipes.

What Is The Cuisines of Mexico by Diana Kennedy Worth?

The typical price range for The Cuisines of Mexico by Diana Kennedy is $40 - $50 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Presence and condition of the original dust jacket, which significantly impacts the $40-$50 market value.
• Overall physical state of the binding and the absence of kitchen-related stains or foxing on the pages.
• The presence of a signature or inscription by Diana Kennedy can increase the item's desirability to culinary historians.
• First printing status versus later 1970s reprints which are less valuable to serious book collectors.

How to Identify The Cuisines of Mexico by Diana Kennedy?

• Verify the 1972 publication date on the copyright page to ensure it is the true first edition.
• Check for the presence of the original foreword written by renowned food critic Craig Claiborne.
• Confirm the inclusion of the specific vibrant color photographs that characterized the initial printing.
• Look for the Harper & Row publisher imprint on the spine and title page.

History of The Cuisines of Mexico by Diana Kennedy

Diana Kennedy, an English food writer, dedicated her life to preserving and documenting traditional Mexican cooking. Her meticulous research involved traveling extensively throughout Mexico, learning from local cooks in their homes and markets. This particular book, 'The Cuisines of Mexico,' was a groundbreaking work, introducing a broader audience to the complexity and diversity of Mexican gastronomy beyond common Tex-Mex interpretations. It has become a cornerstone for serious cooks and culinary enthusiasts interested in authentic Mexican flavors. The first edition, published in 1972, holds a special place for collectors due to its historical significance in culinary literature.