Food: Fact or Fiction? Season 2 Episode 1 Hole In One

In season 2's first episode of Food: Fact or Fiction?, viewers are taken on a journey to uncover the truth behind some popular food myths and legends surrounding the beloved donut. The episode, titled "Hole In One", explores the origin of the donut hole and the evolution of the pastry itself.

Host Michael McKean delves into the history of donuts, beginning with the Dutch settlers who brought their traditional Oliebollen (oil cakes) to America. These early donuts were often filled with nuts or fruit, and lacked the characteristic hole that has become synonymous with the treat. McKean then investigates the story of a New England ship captain who supposedly invented the donut hole to solve a practical problem - the fried cakes would often be undercooked in the center, but overcooked on the outside.

But is the story of the captain and his donut hole all it's cracked up to be? McKean uncovers evidence that suggests the captain may have actually been using what he called "spiders" - long, narrow tongs used to flip and cook the donuts evenly. The true origin of the donut hole remains elusive, but as McKean points out, the mystery only adds to the allure of the pastry.

The episode also tackles some of the more recent developments in the donut world, such as the cronut - a hybrid croissant-donut pastry that took the culinary world by storm in 2013. McKean explores the origins of the cronut and how its popularity sparked a trend of hybrid desserts and innovative flavor combinations.

Throughout the show, experts weigh in on the science behind the donut and its various components - from the chemistry of yeast and dough, to the thermodynamics of frying and glazing. Viewers learn how doughnuts get their signature shape and texture, and discover the secret to making the perfect glaze.

The episode also touches on the cultural significance of donuts, from their role as a staple of American breakfast culture to their place in pop culture and art. A segment on the "Donut Underground" of the 1960s explores how donuts became a symbol of resistance for anti-war protesters, who carried boxes of the pastries during demonstrations to spread goodwill and build camaraderie.

Overall, "Hole In One" serves as a fascinating exploration of the humble donut and its impact on food culture and beyond. Whether you're a die-hard donut fan or just curious about the history of this ubiquitous pastry, this episode is sure to leave you hungry for more.