Ep 10. Colonial Cuisine & Historic Hospitality

In season 12 episode 10 of A Taste of History, titled "Colonial Cuisine & Historic Hospitality," host Walter Staib explores the culinary traditions of early American colonists and their guests.

Staib begins by highlighting the importance of hospitality in colonial times, as it was a way to establish social connections and show one's status and generosity. To demonstrate this, he visits the home of William Penn, who founded the Pennsylvania Colony, and showcases the elaborate feasts and etiquette of his time.

Next, Staib heads to the historic Powel House, which was built in 1765 and hosted many influential guests such as Benjamin Franklin and George Washington. He learns about the seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients used in colonial cooking and shows us how to make a delicious vegetable dish inspired by the Powel House kitchen.

Staib then travels to the Moravian settlement of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where he visits the 1741 Gemeinhaus and highlights the communal lifestyle and hospitality of the Moravian people. He discovers their unique traditions and ingredients, such as their use of sauerkraut in everyday dishes, and prepares a mouth-watering pork belly dish using these influences.

Finally, Staib visits the historic Conrad Weiser Homestead and delves into the particular cuisine of the German immigrant population in colonial America. He learns about their baking traditions, such as making bread with yeast from beer, and makes a delicious apple tart with a crumb topping.

Throughout the episode, Staib emphasizes the significance of colonial cuisine and hospitality as a reflection of the diverse cultures and perspectives that shaped early America. Viewers will gain insight into the culinary traditions of the past and appreciate the role that food played in building and maintaining social connections.