Ep 5. Von Steuben's Secret Weapon

In season 1 episode 5 of A Taste of History, titled "Von Steuben's Secret Weapon," the host, Chef Walter Staib, explores the culinary history of the American Revolutionary War and the role that a Prussian military officer named Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben played in shaping the future of the American military.

Throughout the episode, viewers learn about Von Steuben's impressive military background and his strategic ideas for training and organizing the Continental Army. However, Chef Staib also highlights one of Von Steuben's lesser-known but equally important contributions to the war: his knowledge of food.

Von Steuben understood that good nutrition was critical for maintaining soldiers' health and strength on the battlefield. Therefore, he was meticulous about the army's food supply and even wrote a cooking manual for soldiers to ensure that they were receiving the best possible meals.

To demonstrate the importance of food in military history, Chef Staib prepares a variety of dishes from Von Steuben's cookbook, including roast beef with horseradish sauce, baked beans, and apple cider. By cooking with 18th-century methods and ingredients, Chef Staib helps viewers step back in time and understand the challenges and limitations of feeding a large army during wartime.

But the episode doesn't just focus on food. Through interviews with historians and reenactors, viewers gain insight into the fascinating life of Von Steuben and the impact he had on the American Revolution. From his introduction of the Prussian-style march to his contributions to the creation of the basic training model still used by the military today, Von Steuben's legacy is one that extends far beyond the kitchen.

As with all episodes of A Taste of History, "Von Steuben's Secret Weapon" is a rich blend of history, culture, and cuisine. Chef Staib is an engaging host, and viewers will appreciate his enthusiasm for telling the stories behind the dishes he prepares. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone who enjoys a good story, this episode is sure to entertain and inform.