Episode 132: Easter Sweets & Ancient Rites of Spring

Michael Krondl is talking Easter sweets on this week’s episode of A Taste of the Past! Michael joins Linda Pelaccio in the studio to shed some light on some confusing Easter mythology. Why do we give chocolate bunnies at Easter time? Why are rabbits and eggs Easter symbols? Also, listen in to learn the history behind eating sweet bread during the Easter holiday. Hear about other ancient spring celebrations, and find out what foods were eaten to improve fertility. How do desserts differ across Europe, and how do their traditions help distinguish desserts from everyday breads? Celebrate Easter on today’s episode of A Taste of the Past! This program has been sponsored by Hearst Ranch.

“Bread has a very complicated meaning (in fertility holidays). In Christianity, bread represents the body of Christ. The idea of having these breads for Easter ties in with Christianity, but it probably came before Christianity in Europe.” [4:00]

“Sweet things used to be rare and expensive. They used to be associated with the priest class.” [27:20]

— Michael Krondl on A Taste of the Past

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