Tofu: A Culinary History

Russell Thomas is the author of Tofu: A Culinary History. His book traces tofu’s remarkable journey from its ancient origins in East Asia to its global rise as a staple of modern plant-based cuisine. Blending cultural history, food science, and surprising culinary anecdotes, he reveals how a humble soybean product became a symbol of tradition, innovation, and identity across continents. This global history of bean curd stretches from ancient creation myths and tomb paintings, via Chinese poetry and Japanese Buddhist cuisine, to deportations in Soviet Russia and struggles for power on the African continent.

Whether you’re a food lover, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the stories behind everyday ingredients, this event offers a fresh, fascinating look at one of the world’s most versatile foods.

We will have copies of Thomas's book for sale in our gift shop prior to the event and signed copies available the night of.

As a courtesy to our speaker, our door policy stipulates that all guests must arrive before 7pm.

About the Speakers

Russell Thomas is an author and journalist currently based in Tokyo. His writing has appeared in the Japan Times, the Guardian, and the South China Morning Post, among others.

Jesse Smith is the vice president of interpretation and education and director of the museum at the Science History Institute, where he oversees collecting activities and interpretive projects in the public history of science and technology. He is the curator of Lunchtime: The History of Science on the School Food Tray, which is on view through January 2026. He was also the curator of Downstream, a temporary exhibition on the history of water analysis and protection, which received a 2022 Institutional Achievement Award from PA Museums, a 2022 Award of Excellence from the American Association of State and Local History, and the 2022 Dibner Award for Excellence in Museum Exhibits from the Society for the History of Technology.

Jesse is also the associate editor of the journal History and Technology. His writing has appeared in a variety of publications including the Washington Post and the exhibition catalog Pool: A Social History of Segregation. Jesse received his PhD in the history and sociology of science at the University of Pennsylvania.

About This Event

This presentation is part of our Science and Society speaker series, which explores the history of science embedded in our everyday lives. We invite scientists, historians, policymakers, and educators for engaging, in-depth conversations that expand our perspectives. Program formats include lectures, interviews, roundtables, and book launches. Science and Society events are curated for an adult audience, fostering curiosity, conversation, and interactivity. Each evening concludes with a free reception with the speakers.