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Gastropod

Raised and Glazed: Don’t Doubt the Doughnut

Oct 10, 2023
This podcast explores the history and cultural significance of doughnuts, including their origins in different cultures and their association with holidays. It also discusses the success of Cambodian American indie donut shops in California and the cultural significance of donuts in America.
48:25

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Donuts have a long history and were made by various cultures around the world, but gained widespread popularity in the US after World War I.
  • Donut shops in America serve as important community hubs, providing economic opportunities and a sense of belonging for immigrant populations.

Deep dives

The Origins of Donuts and their Cultural Significance

Donuts have a long history, with early versions being made by various cultures around the world. Frying dough in oil has been a common practice for centuries. In America, the Dutch settlers introduced a type of fried dough called "olkooks" or "oil cakes," which eventually led to the term "donut." Donuts gained popularity in the US after World War I, when the Salvation Army served them to boost morale among soldiers. Today, donuts have become an iconic American treat, with various flavors and styles available.

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