These People Believe Their People Invented The Donut

This is a short clip from the documentary I made on a small Maine town. Here is the whole film - https://youtu.be/qI7Q6B05_2s

The word "doughnut" comes from the combination of two words: "dough" and "nut. It refers to the dough used to make the pastry. The term "nut" in this context is not related to the nuts we commonly eat. In older English, "nut" could refer to a small, round, nut-like object, which fits the early shape of the doughnut, which often resembled small, round balls of dough.

The first known recorded use of the term "doughnut" was in Washington Irving's 1809 book "A History of New York," in which he describes "balls of sweetened dough, fried in hog's fat, and called doughnuts, or olykoeks."

The simplified spelling "donut" became popular in the United States in the mid-20th century, especially after the rise of Dunkin' Donuts which helped popularize this spelling through its branding.

The exact origin of the doughnut in the United States is somewhat disputed, and multiple regions claim to be the birthplace. The claim from Maine has a notable story associated with it, involving a sea captain named Hanson Gregory. According to the legend, in 1847, Captain Gregory, who was from Rockport, Maine, invented the doughnut by punching a hole in the center of the dough to ensure it cooked evenly.

While this story is widely recounted, fried dough confections have been made in various forms across different cultures for centuries. The Dutch settlers in early America made "olykoeks" (oil cakes), which are similar to modern donuts.

Placing a hole at the center of a doughnut serves several practical purposes in cooking. The primary reason for the hole is to ensure even cooking. Without the hole, the center of the doughnut tends to remain undercooked or doughy while the exterior becomes crisp and possibly overcooked. The hole allows the hot oil to cook the doughnut evenly throughout.

Doughnuts with a hole cook more quickly than solid pieces of dough, making the frying process more efficient.The hole helps maintain a consistent texture, ensuring that the doughnut is light and fluffy rather than dense and heavy in the middle.

Doughnuts have a unique combination of a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The sweetness and richness of the dough, often enhanced by glazes, icings, or fillings, create a satisfying treat.

Many people have fond memories associated with doughnuts, such as childhood treats, family traditions, or special occasions. This nostalgia adds to their appeal.

Doughnuts have become an iconic part of various cultures. In the United States, for instance, they are closely associated with police officers and are a staple at police breakfast meetings and social gatherings.

Who make the best donuts? several doughnut shops across the country have gained acclaim and popularity.

Voodoo Doughnut (Portland, OR): Known for its creative and quirky doughnut flavors, Voodoo Doughnut has become an iconic spot. Their unique creations, such as the Bacon Maple Bar and the Voodoo Doll doughnut, draw in crowds from near and far.

Doughnut Plant (New York, NY): This New York City staple is celebrated for its high-quality ingredients and innovative flavors. Doughnut Plant offers a variety of doughnuts, including their popular Crème Brûlée and Peanut Butter & Banana Cream doughnuts.

Federal Donuts (Philadelphia, PA): Federal Donuts combines two favorites: fried chicken and doughnuts. Their doughnuts are made fresh daily, with standout flavors like Strawberry Lavender and Cookies & Cream.

The Doughnut Vault (Chicago, IL): A small shop with a big reputation, The Doughnut Vault is known for its classic, old-fashioned doughnuts. Their Vanilla Glazed and Buttermilk Old-Fashioned doughnuts are particularly beloved.

Blue Star Donuts (Portland, OR): Blue Star Donuts focuses on high-quality, gourmet ingredients to create unique flavors like Blueberry Bourbon Basil and Raspberry Rosemary Buttermilk.

Donut Bar (San Diego, CA): Donut Bar is famous for its oversized, decadent doughnuts. Popular options include the Big Poppa Tart (a doughnut stuffed with a Pop-Tart) and the Nutella Overload.

The Salty Donut (Miami, FL): This artisanal doughnut shop offers a rotating menu of innovative flavors, such as Maple Bacon and Guava + Cheese, often using locally sourced ingredients.

Sidecar Doughnuts (Costa Mesa, CA): Favorites include the Huckleberry and Butter & Salt doughnuts.

Union Square Donuts (Boston, MA): Known for their light, airy texture and creative flavors, Union Square Donuts offers treats like Brown Butter Hazelnut Crunch and Vietnamese Coffee.

Top Pot Doughnuts (Seattle, WA): Their Old-Fashioned Glazed and Apple Fritters are particularly popular.

Celebrate watching this video by having a doughnut and think of my video. If so inclined, please click the Thanks button below the video screen.
David Hoffman filmmaker

Видео These People Believe Their People Invented The Donut канала David Hoffman