Thomas Jefferson's Creme Brulee

How a Founding Father and His Slave James Hemings Introduced French Cuisine to America

By: Thomas J. Craughwell

Narrated by: Alan Sklar

In 1784, Thomas Jefferson struck a deal with one of his slaves, 19-year-old James Hemings. The founding father was traveling to Paris and wanted to bring James along for a particular purpose - to master the art of French cooking. In exchange for James's cooperation, Jefferson would grant his freedom. Thus began one of the strangest partnerships in United States history. As Hemings apprenticed under master French chefs, Jefferson studied the cultivation of French crops (especially grapes for winemaking) so that they might be replicated in American agriculture. The two men returned home with such marvels as pasta, French fries, Champagne, macaroni and cheese, crème brûlée, and a host of other treats. This narrative history tells the story of their remarkable adventure.

©2012 Thomas J. Craughwell (P)2013 Tantor

Critic reviews

"[A] tasty addition to the long list of Jefferson's accomplishments." ( Kirkus)

LOVED sooooo much!!!!

I know a good bit about Jefferson but learned so much new info. We go to Paris and learn about his lifestyle and household in such an intimate way. Great read for Jefferson and history lovers!!!

Can’t find this in searches on app!

I had a recommendation for this book, and searched the Audible app store for it. Nothing! (I tried variations of the title, the full title, the author, and the narrator).

When I looked it up on Amazon, I see that there is in fact an audible book option. So I added it from there. But it was very frustrating that it’s missing from the app catalog. I hope this can be fixed! Now this has me wondering how many titles I am missing because they are not included in the app catalog.

I love the premise of this book, and got a little sample on Amazon. I will write a formal review once I’ve gotten a chance to listen to the book.

Learning new stuff

I really liked the book. Learned lots especially about tomatoes being part of the night shade family.

Interesting, but thin on food history

If you're interested in Colonial America, the Founding Fathers, etc., you may learn something from this book about Jefferson's tastes in food and where he sourced his farms. Unfortunately, the author spends more time giving historical context, much of which can be found in any other book about Jefferson, and less about food, much less crème brulee, and not enough information about James Hemings. Still, it is a fun read with an excellent narrator.

Unique tale of cuisine and history

Good narrator good story. Learned a lot from this and the content will inspire you to expand your horizons like one of our greatest forefathers and his journey through France.