Ep 2. Winning the War With Bread
- TV-NR
- June 15, 2015
- 22 min
A Taste of History season 6 episode 2, entitled Winning the War With Bread, focuses on the importance of bread during the Revolutionary War and how it played a crucial role in helping George Washington and his troops win the war.
Chef Walter Staib, the host of the show, takes viewers on a journey through historical locations in the northeastern United States, including Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Valley Forge, and New Jersey. He visits bakeries and mills to learn about the different types of bread that were popular during the time, such as johnnycakes and hardtack, and how they were made.
Through interviews with historians and reenactors, Chef Walter learns about the challenges faced by soldiers during the war, including food shortages and lack of proper nutrition. He also discovers how the Continental Army was able to overcome these challenges by making use of available resources and innovating new methods of food preparation.
In addition to exploring the history of bread during the Revolutionary War, Chef Walter also demonstrates how to make some of these historical breads in his own kitchen. He shares recipes for johnnycakes, hardtack, and a colonial-style sourdough bread, giving viewers a glimpse into what it might have been like to eat during the war.
Throughout the episode, Chef Walter emphasizes the importance of food in shaping history and how it can connect us with the past. By showcasing the role that bread played in the Revolutionary War, he provides a unique perspective on how seemingly small details can have a significant impact on the outcome of historical events.
Overall, A Taste of History season 6 episode 2 offers a fascinating look at the history of bread during the Revolutionary War and how it helped Washington and his troops secure their victory. Through Chef Walter's engaging storytelling and delicious recipes, viewers are sure to come away with a newfound appreciation for this staple food and its historical significance.