Eliza Smith

Eliza Smith (c. 1678 – c. 1732) was an English cook and author of the 18th century, best known for her cookbook, The Compleat Housewife.

Early Life

Little is known about Eliza Smith's early life. She was born around 1678, but the exact date and place of her birth are unknown. She is believed to have been a domestic servant, working in several households of the English gentry.

Career

Eliza Smith's career as a cook and author began in the early 18th century. Her most famous work, The Compleat Housewife, was first published in 1727. The book was a comprehensive guide to running a household in the 18th century, covering everything from cooking and cleaning to managing servants. It was one of the first cookbooks to be published in England and was a bestseller, with 18 editions published in its first 75 years.

Legacy

Eliza Smith's The Compleat Housewife had a significant impact on English cooking and household management. It introduced many new recipes and cooking techniques, and was a major influence on later cookbooks. Despite her significant contributions, Smith remains a somewhat obscure figure in culinary history.

See Also

• English cuisine
• 18th century in literature
• History of cookbooks