Acclaimed food writer and cultural historian John T. Edge continues his sumptuous feast of a series on iconic American foods-with recipes included.With Fried Chicken and Apple Pie, John T. Edge launched a series of short books that celebrate American culture through the lore of our favorite foods. Now, with Hamburgers & Fries, Edge continues his quest to discover the very essence of America through the dishes we love and cherish.Across the nation, from backyard barbecues to Big Macs, Edge follows the evolution of the burger from frugal repast to deluxe treat, but always with a celebration of American brawn and freedom. He revisits Depression-era days, when most hamburgers were extended with bread crumbs, and goes on to trace the arc of the American experience that leads us to the haute burgers of today, with foie gras at their centers and selling for $50 apiece. Best of all, the acclaimed food writer gives us fifteen recipes for the best burger we've ever sunk our teeth into.