This is a Big Question. I can imagine a pig falling into fire inspiring steaks, or a forgotten stash of grapes found in a time of extreme drought giving the idea for wine. But how ... moreThis is a Big Question. I can imagine a pig falling into fire inspiring steaks, or a forgotten stash of grapes found in a time of extreme drought giving the idea for wine. But how would anyone see some grain growing and decide they have to reap it, dry it, pulverize it, mix it with water, let it sit, and on and on all the way to a loaf of bread?
Let's grow this plant, pick the berries, take the seeds out, roast and then grind the beans, pour hot water through the grounds, and throw the beans away. Drink the water! How did ... moreLet's grow this plant, pick the berries, take the seeds out, roast and then grind the beans, pour hot water through the grounds, and throw the beans away. Drink the water! How did we get there?
With most aspects of food (e.g., styles of cooking, pans, dishes), you could fill a book with all the ways different cultures have come up with to do the same basic task. Not so wi... moreWith most aspects of food (e.g., styles of cooking, pans, dishes), you could fill a book with all the ways different cultures have come up with to do the same basic task. Not so with cutlery. For all the different worldwide cuisines, your choice is chopsticks or "Western" cutlery - knife, fork, spoon. What other options are there? Are these really the only two types of cutlery that mankind has invented?
