Ep 8. William Penn

A Taste of History is a documentary cooking TV show that explores the history behind some of the most iconic dishes in the US. In season 4 episode 8 titled William Penn, the host Walter Staib takes the viewers on a journey to discover the culinary traditions of William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania.

The episode starts with Walter Staib visiting the historical landmarks of Philadelphia, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. He then explores the Pennsylvania countryside, where he meets with local farmers and discovers the ingredients that were central to Penn's culinary legacy.

Throughout the episode, Walter Staib highlights the influence of various cultures on Penn's approach to cooking. He explores the Native American cuisine that Penn would have encountered during his travels, as well as the English and French culinary traditions that he grew up with.

One of the most interesting segments of the episode is when Walter Staib recreates an authentic dish from William Penn's time. He prepares a dish called "Oyster Loaf," which was a favorite delicacy of Penn and is still enjoyed by the locals to this day. The dish is made by scooping out the bread from a loaf and filling it with oysters, cream, and seasoning before baking it to perfection.

Another segment of the episode sees Walter Staib visit a historic bakery in Philadelphia that specializes in the traditional German pretzels that would have been popular in Penn's time. He learns about the history of the pretzel and how it became a symbol of Pennsylvania's culinary culture.

Throughout the episode, Walter Staib also highlights the importance of sustainability in Penn's approach to farming and cooking. He showcases the use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and the value of reducing waste and conserving resources.

In the final segment of the episode, Walter Staib prepares a traditional "Cobbler" dessert using Pennsylvania peaches and berries. He shares the recipe with the viewers and encourages them to embrace the culinary traditions of Pennsylvania.

Overall, A Taste of History season 4 episode 8 titled William Penn is a fascinating look into the culinary history of Pennsylvania. The combination of history, culture, and cuisine makes for an engaging and educational viewing experience.