Shahnaz Ahsan

The Jackfruit Chronicles is a heartfelt memoir that delves into the stunning flavours and captivating history of Bengali food while giving a voice to those individuals who introduced this cuisine to the United Kingdom.

Beginning with the arrival of Shahnaz’s grandfather, Habib, in Manchester in the 1950s, this memoir not only focuses on the author's family story but also the broader narrative of the Bangladeshi diaspora, their struggles and their quest for a better life in Britain.

Among the cultural divides and misunderstandings that affected the generations before her, Shahnaz beautifully weaves together her family's recipes and cherished memories, including dishes like sour tomato broth, jackfruit kofta curry, lentil fritters, fish with clementine peels, and much more.

Interspersed with stories and exciting recipes, The Jackfruit Chronicles is a heartfelt love letter to family, food and Bangladesh.