Emmanuel Laroche
A Taste of Madagascar: Culinary Riches of the Red Island
Food and beverage industry executive, creator and host of the podcast “Flavors Unknown,” and author of Conversations Behind The Kitchen Door and A Taste of Madagascar
Berkeley Heights, NJ/New York City
BOOK COVER
BOOK DETAILS
Pub Date: February 17, 2026
Genre: Food/Travel
Publisher: Post Hill Press
Page Count: 272
Format, ISBN, Price:
Hardcover, 9798895650141, $38
Ebook, 9798895650158, $15.99
Let Emmanuel introduce you to the taste of Madagascar! (video)
ABOUT THE BOOK
From caviar to pink peppercorn, zebu cattle to ingeniously used rice, A Taste of Madagascar is a study of the ingredients and traditions that define a place, revealing how they have also shaped the global culinary landscape.
Madagascar’s vibrant culinary heritage and delicate ecosystem faces imminent threats from deforestation and climate change, so you’ll learn about the environmental challenges affecting these ingredients. Traverse lush forests of fragrant vanilla, endless fields of exotic spices, and idyllic farms of sturgeon and honey, guided by passionate Malagasy farmers, food artisans, and culinary experts. Emmanuel’s love letter to Madagascar will deepen appreciation of its unique scenic beauty and culinary culture.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Born and raised in France, Emmanuel lives in New Jersey and travels around the country conducting tastings and giving lectures and presentations on food, flavors, ingredients, and consumer trends. Host of the podcast Flavors Unknown, he is the author of two books—Conversations Behind The Kitchen Door and A Taste of Madagascar—and is currently working on his first novel.
TALKING POINTS
- The culinary culture of Madagascar, an often misunderstood land
- Ingredients and flavors we should know about, and how to use them in your own kitchen
- Madagascar’s global role in vanilla bean production and why vanilla is a superstar
- The threat of deforestation to the island’s distinctive biodiversity and what we need to know
- The farmers, food artisans, and small enterprises that sustain the global palate
- Learning about the world through its flavors and the people behind them
- Emmanuel as a Flavor Explorer and Culinary Storyteller
TIMELY TIE-INS
May
- National Travel and Tourism Week – 3-9
- National Tourist Appreciation Day – 6
- World Fair Trade Day – 10
- World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development – 21
June
- Great Outdoors Month
- World Environment Day – 5
- World Oceans Day – 8
July
- Culinary Arts Appreciation Month
- World Nature Conservation Day – 28
PRAISE
“Emmanuel Laroche paints a delicious portrait of Madagascar’s culinary landscape, diverse cultural roots, and agricultural heritage in this inviting exploration of the island’s vibrant culinary treasures…. A food enthusiast’s dream, this book will delight culinary historians, anthropologists, agronomists, and food scientists as well as inspire lovers of travel and unique food experiences.”
—BlueInk Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
“A real travel adventure to a place most of us know so little about…. Laroche paints a compelling picture of the beauty of this magnificent landscape and the dire need for protecting it and the food culture that lives within.”
—Jason Evans, Dean, College of Food Innovation & Technology, Johnson & Wales University
“From bustling markets to remote villages, Emmanuel Laroche captures the essence of Madagascar—a place where food tells stories of resilience, community, and an unforgettable dance of flavor.”
—Daniel Stone, bestselling author of The Food Explorer and American Poison
“A remarkable journey through the cultural and culinary richness of Madagascar, capturing the nuances of the island’s diverse landscapes, traditions, and flavors…. More than a celebration of cuisine, this book is a profound exploration of an island’s identity, narrated through its flavors, customs, and environmental challenges…. An essential read.”
—Abby Ross, PhD, Primatologist & Founder of The Dr. Abigail Ross Foundation for Applied Conservation
“Emmanuel’s book… captures the soul of this unforgettable island.”
—Chef and Author Elizabeth Falkner, ChEF Production
“His genuine fascination and connection with our food culture and local people…truly enriches his narrative…. Destined to inspire the palates of chefs and food lovers globally.”
—Nirina Ramanandraibe, Assistant direction Chocolaterie Robert and Chairman at Mikea Lodge
“A heartfelt tribute to the artisans, chefs, and farmers who shape our identity. From the richness of our seafood, chocolate, and caviar, to the warmth of our culture, Madagascar’s gastronomy is an experience like no other.”
—Viviane Dewa, Minister of Tourism, Republic of Madagascar
BOOK DETAILS
Pub Date: May 17, 2022
Genre: Memoir / Christian Inspirational
Publisher: She Writes Press
Page Count: 304
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 978-1647429003
Price: $15.99