Unearthing Comfort: The Resurgence of Soup from Neolithic Feasts to TikTok Trends
Soup's journey from the cauldron of the Stone Age to the small screens of TikTok has been a fascinating one. Whether they hail from a humble jar, a bubbling pot, or a can, these culinary concoctions have graced the tables, bellies, and hearts of people across the globe since the Neolithic Age. This Tuesday, at 10:55 PM on 3sat, join Constanze Grießler for a scrumptious adventure in "Ausgelöffelt - Das Comeback der Suppe," a documentary celebrating the storied past and present of this primal culinary delight.
With a lighthearted, approachable tone, Grießler invites us to rediscover the simplicity and soul of soup – a dish that can be whipped up in a single vessel. Perhaps inspired by the notion that simplicity tastes best, Grießler aims to inspire a generation of fast-food enthusiasts to give their culinary prowess a whirl at home. After all, soups, reminiscent of childhood memories, pack a nutritious punch and serve as the perfect remedy for that leftover spread gathering dust in your fridge.
During her journey, Grießler stops by notable spaces in Vienna, such as a Buchinger clinic in Geras Abbey (Austria's Waldviertel region), a Viennese Vietnamese restaurant, and even soup buses that provide warmth and sustenance to the city's less fortunate residents. These diverse settings serve as a testament to the versatility of soup – a nourishing meal for health-conscious individuals, and a heartening comfort food for those grappling with societal hardships.
To provide a richer context for these adventures, Grießler enlists the help of molecular biologist Fritz Treiber, head of the taste laboratory at the University of Graz, who drops some fascinating scientific nuggets about the nutritional values of soup. Treiber points out how cooks during the Renaissance, both at the courts of the nobility and among the masses, played a pivotal role in popularizing soup in Europe. Indeed, it was during this period that the clear bouillon with garnish – a beloved staple – first emerged, pleasing the palates of the elite.
Meanwhile, on the other end of the social spectrum, dinner tables of the homeless population in Vienna are graced with a hearty soup of their choice, thanks to Caritas volunteers. Reflecting the toll of the pandemic on culinary customs, the internet has seen an influx of young, Gourmet warriors sharing their artistic concoctions on TikTok and YouTube.
At the helm of Koshēr cuisine is the deeply rooted, “De goldene Joich,” a traditional chicken soup enjoyed by the Jewish community during the Sabbath and on public holidays. Meanwhile, the cult dish "Pho" – a Vietnamese powerhouse of flavors, fresh herbs, and fragrant spices – continues to enthrall its faithful followers.
Celebrated Chef Max Stiegl lavishes his love for this humble, liquid dish as a tangible cultural artifact, while Michelin-starred chefs offer soup creations with a twist, like the Pannonian fish soup with zander. In standing testament to humanity's unwavering devotion to soup, pros and amateurs alike are united in their passion for creativity and sustenance.
Catch "Ausgelöffelt - Das Comeback der Suppe" on December 12, 8:55 PM on 3sat, an unmissable episode that celebrates the transformative power of a simple meal. With psychological meanderings, culinary escapades, and historical insights, this captivating documentary promises to leave you craving for more than just soup.
For movie enthusiasts seeking a delightful distraction, The Auswärtiger Bote recommends some other scintillating titles, like “Leave The World Behind” with Julia Roberts, the gripping "Sky documentary: "23 - The mysterious death of a hacker,” and an intriguing list of upcoming TV annual reviews.
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If you find yourself in Vienna, make sure to try the traditional "De goldene Joich" kosher chicken soup that has delighted countless generations. This visual journey through soup's history teaches us that the simple act of sharing a bowl of nourishment can provide solace in a world that, sometimes, leaves us feeling disconnected and cold.
