Asian Americana

A vibrant exploration of Asian diaspora foodways through 100 recipes that both honor and break tradition, from the award-winning author of First Generation.

Asians landed in the Americas as early as the 1580s, and they formed communities along the coasts of modern-day Mexico, founded fishing villages on lakes surrounding New Orleans, and played an essential role in the agricultural growth of California's Central Valley. This rich and complicated history has resulted in a landscape of exciting but rarely explored foodways.

Asian Americana is a celebration of this food through 100 nostalgic and adventurous recipes inspired by multi-generational Asian families and immigrants across the US, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Like a Cajun-flavored stir-fried noodle dish inspired by St. Malo, the first Asian American settlement in the bayous of southeastern Louisiana, or a jerk chicken seasoned with garam masala to honor the half million South Asians who made their way to British West Indies sugar plantations for the promise of more opportunity.

Award-winning blogger and food writer Frankie Gaw leans into the joy of creating these unique culinary combinations—whether through opposing cultures, flavors, textures, seasonings, or techniques—and finds commonality in the differences through recipes such as:

• Chinese Mexican Mole Poblano
• Roti Quesadilla
• Lemongrass Clam Chowder
• Japanese Curry Bolognese

• Miso Apple Cider Tart

• Bananas Foster Upside-Down Bibingka

A culinary treasure trove of cultures, flavors, and ingredients, Asian Americana is a visually stunning and innovative statement of what Asian food can be.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

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Here's a brief overview of the main types:

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The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs