Hannah Glasse

Hannah Glasse (March 1708 – 1 September 1770) was an English cookery writer of the 18th century. Her first cookery book, The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy, published in 1747, became the best-selling recipe book that century. It was reprinted within its first year of publication, appeared in 20 editions in the 18th century, and continued to be published until well into the 19th century.

Early Life

Glasse was born in London in 1708 to a Northumberland family. Her father was a coachman, John Allgood, and her mother, Hannah Reynolds, was a domestic servant. She was the eldest of 10 children.

Career

Glasse's career began in 1747 with the publication of The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy. The book was designed as an instructional manual for servants - it was the first cookbook to actually refer to "you the reader". The book did not contain any illustrations and was written in a conversational style.

Legacy

Glasse's work had a profound influence on the art of cooking in the 18th and 19th centuries. Her recipes were practical and aimed at ordinary people rather than professional cooks, which made them very popular. Her book was the first to record the recipe for Yorkshire pudding and the first to suggest serving roast beef with Yorkshire pudding and horseradish sauce.

Death

Glasse died on 1 September 1770 in Newcastle upon Tyne. Her death was widely mourned, and her recipes continue to be used and referenced today.

See Also

• English cuisine
• 18th century in literature
• List of food writers

External Links

• Official website