

29: Beer
16 snips Aug 31, 2025
Discover the fascinating world of beer, from why you shouldn't tilt your glass when pouring to the ancient Egyptians drinking through straws. Learn about the historical ties between women and brewing, and laugh at the bizarre London Beer Flood of 1814. Explore the art of beer pouring to achieve that perfect head, and delve into beer's surprising culinary creativity. You'll also uncover the delicious story behind Welsh rarebit and its rich cultural significance.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Beer Came Before Wine
- Beer predates wine and was likely easier to produce in early agriculture because grain fermentation needs fewer tools than baking.
- Early beers were often thick, nutritious "liquid bread," closer to gruel than modern beer.
Beer And Bread Share Origins
- Beer and bread share origins; some ancient grains were better for brewing than baking.
- Beer-making could be easier historically because it required no ovens and used natural fermentation.
Chew-To-Ferment Chicha
- Chicha is a South American beer made by chewing maize to kickstart fermentation.
- Hosts mention this to explain ancient saliva-based brewing methods.