Tofu: A Culinary History | What’s happening in Philadelphia

Tofu: A Culinary History


*The event has already taken place on this date: Wed, 02/18/2026
Spend an engaging evening with the Science History Institute’s Jesse Smith and food historian Russell Thomas, author of "Tofu: A Culinary History."

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The history of tofu is anything but bland!

Spend an engaging evening with the Science History Institute’s Jesse Smith and food historian Russell Thomas, author of "Tofu: A Culinary History." In this lively talk, Thomas 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.

Science History Institute, Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, USA

*Times, dates, and prices of any activity posted to our calendars are subject to change. Please be sure to click through directly to the organization’s website to verify.

Location:

315 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA, 19106
United States

Phone:

215-925-2222
Contact name: 
Science History Institute
The event has already taken place on this date: 
02/18/2026
Time: 
6pm
Price: 
FREE

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