Eugene Walter | Author
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. Discuss your favorite herb or spice described in Hints & Pinches. Why do you like it and what do you use it in?
2. In the preface, Walter says, "The great Southern cooks...would never specify precisely such a measurement," in regard to the terms "pinch" and "dash." Do you believe it is ipmortant to follow recipes exactly? How does the answer compare to other aspects of your life?
3. What important herbs and spices did Columbus discover in his journeys? Can you think of the origin or discovery of other widely used foods and ingredients?
4. Walter says chocolate was used as a beverage and was considered a "snobby luxury beverage" in European history. Are there any foods in today's society that carry a snobbish or luxurious reputation? What are they and why have they developed such a reputation?
5. Walter recites the last words of the great chef Louis Diaf by stating, "There are five elements: earth, air, fire, water...and garlic." If you could pick a spice, herb, or food as the last element, what would it be and why?
6. Do you have a garden? Discuss your plants and their personal importance to you.
7. In his foreword, John T. Edge states that Hints and Pinches is a work of folklore, as well as a culinary work. "Medieval magicians put celery seeds in their shoes," writes Walter, "believing this could make them fly." Discuss other examples of Walter's use of folklore.
8. At one point in the book, Walter asks, "What, exactly, is a chutney?" What exactly is a chutney? Do you like or dislike?
9. What is the difference between cognac and brandy? Do you cook with either one? Do you cook with any wine or liquor?
10. What would be your favorite advice to a cook (if you did not risk insulting him or her by giving it)?