Dan Buettner’s Blue Zones American Kitchen is a celebration of America’s plant-forward culinary heritage, highlighting the diverse communities that have embraced wholesome eating for generations. Drawing on insights from over 50 food experts, chefs, and home cooks across the country, Buettner embarks on a captivating journey to uncover some of the nation’s most underappreciated plant-based traditions. The result is a treasure trove of recipes and lifestyle tips designed to make living healthily to 100 both accessible and delicious.

Buettner’s exploration takes readers into the heart of communities where food and longevity go hand in hand. From the vibrant Hmong kitchens of Minnesota to the steadfast traditions of New England Quakers, he reveals how plant-forward diets have shaped some of America’s healthiest food landscapes. Along the way, readers are introduced to culinary innovators like James Beard Award-winning chef James Wayman, the celebrated Gullah chef Bill Green, and Dave Smoke-McCluskey, also known as “the Cod Chef.” These contributors lend their expertise to recipes that reflect both tradition and creativity, proving that nutritious food can be as satisfying as it is nourishing.

The book’s recipes span a diverse range of flavours and inspirations. Indulge in Pennsylvania Dutch apple dumplings, a comforting dessert steeped in history, or enjoy the Southern classic Hoppin’ John, a dish that embodies cultural resilience and resourcefulness. Each recipe is designed not just to delight the palate but also to inspire a commitment to better health.

What makes Blue Zones American Kitchen particularly compelling is its focus on the proven benefits of the Blue Zones lifestyle. In 49 Blue Zones Project Cities, communities have witnessed remarkable health transformations, including reductions in obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Buettner’s work provides tangible evidence that adopting a plant-forward diet can lead to profound improvements in quality of life.

With 100 irresistible recipes and a wealth of insights, Blue Zones American Kitchen is more than a cookbook—it’s a roadmap to a healthier, more fulfilling way of life, grounded in the wisdom of America’s diverse culinary traditions.

Product details

Publisher: National Geographic (2022)

Language: English

Hardback: 304 pages

ISBN-10: 1426222475

ISBN-13: 978-1426222474

Dimensions: 21.03 x 2.77 x 26.09 cm