In an engaging episode of "Tasting History," host Max Miller embarks on an insightful culinary journey to recreate a recipe for cherry jelly penned by the famous 16th-century prophet, Nostradamus. Surprisingly, Nostradamus is not only known for his cryptic predictions about the future but also for his talent in the kitchen. His 1552 treatise, "Traite des fardemens et des confitures," includes an intriguing array of recipes, among which are two variants of cherry jelly.
The Jelly Recipe
Miller introduces the audience to the elaborate jelly recipe, emphasizing that while Nostradamus wrote that his version was “more delicate and expensive,” it adorned the tables of nobility. The recipe is detailed and specific:
Six to eight pounds of cherries (preferably Amarena cherries)
The first step involves pounding the sugar and combining it with the fresh cherries, which should be squeezed to release their juice. This mixture is boiled until it reduces, followed by straining through a fine linen cloth—crafting a delightful jelly that Nostradamus claimed to be unparalleled in its beauty and taste.
Despite the chaos of prophetic fame overshadowing his culinary work, Nostradamus snidely dismisses his critics. He reflects on those who undermine his talents, suggesting that jealousy fuels their disparagement. This sentiment adds a humorous twist to the recipe recreation process, as Miller proactively comments on his resolute confidence in executing the task without hesitation.
Amidst the culinary adventure, Miller makes a nod to the episode's sponsor, Babbel, highlighting the importance of language and its evolution over time—linking it back to the translation hurdles encountered with Nostradamus’s work. He describes how Babbel aids his learning journey with interactive lessons—a reminder of the enriching experience of learning languages and the inevitable pitfalls inherent in translation that can lead to amusing discrepancies.
Transitioning to the practical component, Miller offers step-by-step instructions on creating the jelly. The audience learns about sourcing cherries, dealing with their messiness during preparation, and the method of testing if the jelly reaches the correct consistency. His clear guidance envelops viewers in the tactile experience of jelly-making, combining science and artistry found in the kitchen.
As the recipe unfolds, nostalgia sneaks into the narrative, allowing an intimate glimpse into the life of Nostradamus—the curious juxtaposition of a figure known for prophecies with one who indulges in the culinary arts.
Miller shares intriguing backstory details about Nostradamus, mapping his life from humble beginnings in Provence through his struggles during the plague, which ultimately shaped his medical practice. His unconventional methods distinguished him from his contemporaries, and his fame as a plague doctor was not only born from his medical skills but also derived from his mysterious persona and prophetic writings.
Finally, after meticulously following Nostradamus’s instructions, Miller does not shy away from tasting the finished product. He describes the jelly’s flavor profile: a sophisticated interplay of sour and sweet, far removed from the cloyingly saccharine jellies of today—elevating this cherry jelly into a noble delicacy. Miller's call to action encourages viewers to experiment with their own versions of the recipe, reflecting the essence of creativity in cooking.
In this episode of "Tasting History," Miller manages to bridge history, science, and culinary art with humor and educational insight. Judging by the delicious outcome, Nostradamus’s claim of creating an exquisite cherry jelly rings true. The recipe serves as both a culinary challenge and a historical exploration—offering fans of food and history a relatable yet noble experience. As Miller wraps up the show with a jubilant flourish, viewers are left contemplating the true legacy of Nostradamus as both a prophet and a purveyor of delicious cherry jelly.
Part 1/8:
Nostradamus: Culinary Prophet of Cherry Jelly
In an engaging episode of "Tasting History," host Max Miller embarks on an insightful culinary journey to recreate a recipe for cherry jelly penned by the famous 16th-century prophet, Nostradamus. Surprisingly, Nostradamus is not only known for his cryptic predictions about the future but also for his talent in the kitchen. His 1552 treatise, "Traite des fardemens et des confitures," includes an intriguing array of recipes, among which are two variants of cherry jelly.
The Jelly Recipe
Miller introduces the audience to the elaborate jelly recipe, emphasizing that while Nostradamus wrote that his version was “more delicate and expensive,” it adorned the tables of nobility. The recipe is detailed and specific:
Part 2/8:
Two pounds of high-quality sugar
Six to eight pounds of cherries (preferably Amarena cherries)
The first step involves pounding the sugar and combining it with the fresh cherries, which should be squeezed to release their juice. This mixture is boiled until it reduces, followed by straining through a fine linen cloth—crafting a delightful jelly that Nostradamus claimed to be unparalleled in its beauty and taste.
Nostradamus and His Culinary Prowess
Part 3/8:
Despite the chaos of prophetic fame overshadowing his culinary work, Nostradamus snidely dismisses his critics. He reflects on those who undermine his talents, suggesting that jealousy fuels their disparagement. This sentiment adds a humorous twist to the recipe recreation process, as Miller proactively comments on his resolute confidence in executing the task without hesitation.
The Babbel Sponsorship
Part 4/8:
Amidst the culinary adventure, Miller makes a nod to the episode's sponsor, Babbel, highlighting the importance of language and its evolution over time—linking it back to the translation hurdles encountered with Nostradamus’s work. He describes how Babbel aids his learning journey with interactive lessons—a reminder of the enriching experience of learning languages and the inevitable pitfalls inherent in translation that can lead to amusing discrepancies.
The Process in Detail
Part 5/8:
Transitioning to the practical component, Miller offers step-by-step instructions on creating the jelly. The audience learns about sourcing cherries, dealing with their messiness during preparation, and the method of testing if the jelly reaches the correct consistency. His clear guidance envelops viewers in the tactile experience of jelly-making, combining science and artistry found in the kitchen.
As the recipe unfolds, nostalgia sneaks into the narrative, allowing an intimate glimpse into the life of Nostradamus—the curious juxtaposition of a figure known for prophecies with one who indulges in the culinary arts.
Nostradamus: A Man of Medicine and Mystique
Part 6/8:
Miller shares intriguing backstory details about Nostradamus, mapping his life from humble beginnings in Provence through his struggles during the plague, which ultimately shaped his medical practice. His unconventional methods distinguished him from his contemporaries, and his fame as a plague doctor was not only born from his medical skills but also derived from his mysterious persona and prophetic writings.
A Taste of History
Part 7/8:
Finally, after meticulously following Nostradamus’s instructions, Miller does not shy away from tasting the finished product. He describes the jelly’s flavor profile: a sophisticated interplay of sour and sweet, far removed from the cloyingly saccharine jellies of today—elevating this cherry jelly into a noble delicacy. Miller's call to action encourages viewers to experiment with their own versions of the recipe, reflecting the essence of creativity in cooking.
Conclusion
Part 8/8:
In this episode of "Tasting History," Miller manages to bridge history, science, and culinary art with humor and educational insight. Judging by the delicious outcome, Nostradamus’s claim of creating an exquisite cherry jelly rings true. The recipe serves as both a culinary challenge and a historical exploration—offering fans of food and history a relatable yet noble experience. As Miller wraps up the show with a jubilant flourish, viewers are left contemplating the true legacy of Nostradamus as both a prophet and a purveyor of delicious cherry jelly.