A Bite of Donut History

No one really knows where or when the first donut was made.  After all, donuts are little more than fried dough--and the first domestic recipes of the ancients probably revealed some form of the now-refined Krispy Kreme.  Various forms of ground barley have, in fact, been discovered in the stomachs and intestinal tracts of mummified Neolithics (say 10,000-12,000 years ago) and from this we can assume that someone had opened a donut shop in a cave entrance somewhere.

No doubt as humans began huddling into clans, and the clans huddled into communities, and communities became towns, various economies were born and some of these businesses were centered on cooking.  The ancient Egyptians, we know, were really into baking--and no doubt donuts were served to the masses who were sweating under the heavy loads of the pyramids.  The ancient Greeks and Romans were also into ovens, and they introduced new oils and flours into the mix.

Some may be surprised to learn that there is actually a Biblical mandate to eat donuts.  The Levitical law (Lev. 7:12) reads:  "You shall offer with the sacrifice of thanksgiving unleavened cakes mingled with oil, of fine flour, fried."  Good Lord!  Fried!  Praise be to Yahweh!

It may also surprise some to learn that one of the first treats associated with the Jewish Hanukkah celebration is Sufganiyah, or "jelly donut". 

So there you have some early history of the donut . . . and that's enough for me.

Breakfast looms.  And it's time to eat.  More history tomorrow.

Just remember . . . all things--especially donuts--in moderation.  Happy eating.