A Taste of Madagascar

Culinary Riches of the Red Island

by Emmanuel Laroche

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Pub Date Jan 27 2026 | Archive Date Feb 02 2026

Post Hill Press

Cooking, Food & Wine | Nonfiction (Adult) | Travel

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Description

When people think of Madagascar, what may come to mind is a Pixar film, a lemur paradise, or the source of 80% of the world’s vanilla beans. In A Taste of Madagascar: Culinary Riches of the Red Island, Emmanuel Laroche—a Flavor Explorer and Culinary Storyteller—takes a captivating journey beyond that postcard image, into the kitchens, farms, and forests that shape one of the planet’s most biodiverse islands in the western Indian Ocean. Through the lens of food—vanilla, cacao, spices, honey, zebu, and caviar—he reveals how flavor becomes a force for preservation and pride. Part foodie travelogue, part cultural portrait, it’s a journey through taste, tradition, and transformation.

Emmanuel first visited Madagascar on a business trip to learn more about their esteemed vanilla extract. But he found an unexpected connection to the people and the place, a bond so strong that just seven months later, he returned for a vacation and did research for this book, which he felt compelled to write.

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.

Advance Praise

“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

“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

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Available Editions

EDITION	Ebook
ISBN	9798895650158
PRICE	$16.99 (USD)
PAGES	272

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Featured Reviews

Cindi A, Reviewer

My husband and I are unable to travel for at least the next 14 months so we’ve decided to cook our way around the world. This was an excellent resource for us and I learned a lot about Madagascar beyond vanilla.

I love the stories and history that were included as well as the recipes. I can’t wait to go and experience this beautiful country in person in the next few years. But until then, we’ve got a few more recipes. We want to try out from this book. I think we’re gonna get a copy of this for our nephew and his wife who also love to explore and try new global cuisines. I think they’re going to enjoy it as much as we do.