Ep 7. Philadelphia Falls

In the season 3 episode 7 of A Taste of History, titled Philadelphia Falls, host Chef Walter Staib takes viewers on a culinary journey through the city of Philadelphia during the Revolutionary War. The episode begins with a visit to the battlefield in Brandywine, where Chef Walter explores the history of the battle and how it impacted the local food supply.

Back in Philadelphia, Chef Walter prepares several dishes that were popular during the Revolutionary War period, such as cornmeal mush, succotash, and Johnnycakes. He explains how these dishes were not only tasty, but also vital for the soldiers and civilians who struggled to feed themselves during the war.

Chef Walter also visits several historic sites in Philadelphia, including the Betsy Ross House and Independence Hall. At each location, he delves into the history of the building and how it played a role in the American Revolution. He also prepares dishes that were popular during the time period, such as a hearty beef stew and a savory apple tart.

Throughout the episode, Chef Walter emphasizes the importance of food during the Revolutionary War. He explains how food shortages affected soldiers and civilians alike, and how creative cooking techniques were necessary to make the most of limited ingredients. He also highlights the role of women in the war effort, particularly in the kitchen, and the contributions they made to the food supply.

In addition to exploring the history of Philadelphia during the Revolutionary War, Chef Walter also introduces viewers to several local chefs and food producers who are carrying on the city's culinary heritage. He visits a local bakery that specializes in German-style pretzels, and tries his hand at making a batch from scratch. He also meets with a chef who runs a farm-to-table restaurant, and learns about the importance of using locally sourced ingredients.

Overall, A Taste of History season 3 episode 7 provides a fascinating look at the culinary and cultural history of Philadelphia during the Revolutionary War. Chef Walter's passion for cooking and history is infectious, and viewers are sure to be inspired to try some of the dishes themselves. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or both, this episode is not to be missed.