A Taste of Thyme presents the pivotal role of food culture in the Islamic world. From the plains of Central Asia to the Spice Bazaar of Istanbul and the rocky heights of the Atlas Mountains, food plays a crucial part in every aspect of life in the Islamic world. This absorbing work presents the role of food culture as an emblem throughout the Middle East and will appeal to all those with a passion for food and cooking.The book is written by respected scholars from varied disciplines - history, sociology, geography, anthropology and literature - and covers a wide range of geographical areas from Central Asia to Morocco.