Jeremy Salamon, "Second Generation: 100 Hungarian and Jewish Classics Reimagined for the Modern Table" (Harvest Publications, 2024)

New Books in Eastern European Studies

From Jeremy Salamon the chef and owner of Agi’s Counter in Brooklyn comes 100 classic Hungarian and Jewish recipes reinvented for a new generation – Second Generation: Hungarian and Jewish Classics Reimagined for the Modern Table (Harvest Publications, 2024).

Salamon speaks to New Books Network, talking about the inspiration that came from growing up a second-generation Hungarian Jew, spending a lot of time with family, gathered around a good meal. Jeremy honored both his grandmothers, Agi and Arlene, in 2021 by opening up his restaurant Agi’s Counter in Brooklyn where he carries on the culture, flavors, and recipes from his heritage. He’s reimagined those traditions with an eye towards seasonality, market-driven ingredients, and a touch of American influence, plus the technical expertise of a career spent in some of New York’s best kitchens.

His cookbook features dishes that include a Hungarian take on pimento cheese, Chicken Paprikash, Palacsinta, and even the classic Tuna Melt sandwich – and all are part of the conversation.

Throughout the interview, Jeremy shares stories about family, food, travel, and the challenges and joys of sharing his modern spin on age-old traditions with diners at his restaurant and now with readers through his cookbook.

Interview by Laura Goldberg, longtime food blogger at Vittlesvamp.com.

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