23 Fun Facts About Cooking That You Don’t Want To Miss

1. The first recorded recipe was for beer, not food.

The first recorded recipe dates back to ancient Sumer and was for a type of beer.

This highlights the significance of beer in early civilizations and its role as a staple beverage, preceding the creation of recipes for food dishes.

2. The world’s oldest cookbook was written in ancient Babylon.

The world’s oldest surviving cookbook, known as “The Babylonia Recipe Collection,” was written in ancient Babylon and dates back to approximately 1700 BC.

This ancient text contains a collection of recipes for preparing food and drinks, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the Babylonian civilization and their understanding of cooking techniques and ingredients.

3. Tea bags were basically an accident.

Tea bags were an accidental invention in 1908 by Thomas Sullivan, a New York tea importer. He intended to find a lighter and cheaper packaging alternative than tin containers for his tea samples. By packaging the samples in small silk bags, customers assumed they were meant to be used like metal infusers, leading to the birth of the tea bag.

However, the true inventors of the modern tea bag, Roberta C. Lawson and Mary McLaren, filed a patent in 1901 for a tea-leaf holder, resembling today’s tea bags, intentionally designed to hold just enough tea for one cup.

4. The term “sous chef” literally means “under chef”.

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The term “sous chef” is a French term that literally means “under chef.” This refers to the second-in-command in a kitchen who assists the head chef with various tasks, such as supervising junior kitchen staff, preparing ingredients, and managing kitchen operations.

The sous chef plays a crucial role in the smooth running of a kitchen and can be thought of as the right-hand person of the head chef.

5. Cooking is a proven stress-relieving practice.

Cooking has been recognized as a proven stress-relieving practice due to several factors. Firstly, the act of cooking can be meditative, allowing individuals to focus on the task at hand and divert their attention from stressful thoughts. Secondly, the process of preparing food can be therapeutic, providing a sense of accomplishment and control.

Additionally, the aromas and flavors produced during cooking can stimulate the senses and evoke positive emotions, further reducing stress levels. Lastly, sharing a meal with others or enjoying the fruits of one’s labor can foster social connections and a sense of community, which are essential for overall well-being.

6. Plates make a difference in food taste.

Plates make a difference in food taste. Environmental cues such as the color, size, and shape of dinnerware can alter how we experience food and drink. For example, research suggests that food served on a red plate tends to reduce the amount diners eat.

Additionally, the weight and color of utensils can influence the perception of sweetness or saltiness in a dish. Therefore, the choice of dinnerware can significantly enhance or detract from the overall dining experience.

7. The inventor of cotton candy was a dentist.

The inventor of cotton candy was a dentist. Cotton candy, as we know it, was first created in 1897 by William Morrison, a dentist, and John C. Wharton, a confectioner. They developed a machine that spun heated sugar through a screen, producing the floss-like texture we recognize today.

Introduced to the public at the 1904 St. Louis World Fair, the treat, initially called “fairy floss,” quickly gained popularity, selling over 68,000 boxes. Since then, cotton candy has evolved and become a beloved part of American culture, enjoyed at fairs and events across the country.

8. Cooking is a form of altruism.

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Cooking is a form of altruism. Altruism involves selflessly helping others, often at a personal cost. When you cook for someone, you’re not only providing nourishment but also showing care and consideration for their well-being.

This act of preparing meals can strengthen bonds, express love, and create a sense of community. Through cooking, you can bring comfort and joy to others, making it a deeply generous and altruistic practice.

9. The word “recipe” comes from the Latin word “recipere.”

The word “recipe” comes from the Latin word “recipere.” “Recipere” means “to take” or “to receive.” In the context of cooking, it originally referred to a medical prescription or formula.

Over time, it evolved to mean a set of instructions for preparing a dish. This linguistic history highlights how recipes are a way of sharing and passing down culinary knowledge. Thus, the term “recipe” encapsulates the tradition of receiving and transmitting food preparation techniques.

10. The fear of cooking is known as “mageirocophobia.”

The fear of cooking is known as “mageirocophobia.” This term is derived from the Greek words “mageiros,” meaning “cook,” and “phobos,” meaning “fear.” People with mageirocophobia may experience anxiety or distress at the thought of preparing meals.

This fear can stem from a variety of sources, such as a lack of confidence in cooking skills or past negative experiences in the kitchen. Understanding mageirocophobia is important in addressing and overcoming this anxiety to enjoy the culinary process.

11. The world’s most expensive spice is saffron.

The world’s most expensive spice is saffron. Saffron is derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, commonly known as the saffron crocus. It is primarily found in regions such as Iran, India (especially Kashmir), and Spain.

The high cost of saffron is due to the labor-intensive process of harvesting its delicate stigma by hand, requiring around 150 flowers to produce just one gram of saffron. Its unique flavor, aroma, and vibrant color make it a coveted ingredient in culinary traditions worldwide.

12. Honey Never Spoils.

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Honey is the food that never spoils. This remarkable longevity is due to its unique chemical composition. Honey’s low water content and high acidity create an inhospitable environment for bacteria and microorganisms, preventing spoilage.

Honey contains natural preservatives such as hydrogen peroxide and enzymes that further inhibit bacterial growth. Archaeologists have even found edible honey in ancient Egyptian tombs, demonstrating its incredible ability to remain fresh indefinitely.

13. The first recorded recipe for ice cream was in China, over 2000 years ago.

The first recorded recipe for ice cream was documented in China over 2000 years ago. Made from a mixture of snow, ice, and flavored syrups, ice cream was initially enjoyed by royalty and the upper class.

Today, it is a popular treat enjoyed by people all over the world in a variety of flavors and styles.

14. The invention of the microwave oven was an accidental discovery.

The microwave oven’s invention was a fortuitous accident. In 1946, while testing a military-grade magnetron, Raytheon engineer Percy Spencer found his peanut cluster bar melted. This surprising event sparked the idea that microwaves could cook food rapidly.

Spencer’s innate curiosity and problem-solving abilities played a crucial role in developing the microwave oven, now a ubiquitous kitchen appliance. Today, over 90 percent of American households own a microwave, underscoring the lasting influence of this serendipitous discovery.

15. The first pressure cooker was invented in 1679 by a French physicist.

The first pressure cooker was created in 1679 by a French physicist named Denis Papin. He designed the appliance to speed up cooking time and improve the taste of food.

The pressure cooker works by trapping steam inside a sealed pot, which increases the pressure and temperature to cook food quickly and evenly.

Today, pressure cookers are a common kitchen appliance used to make meals in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional cooking methods.

16. The first recorded use of the fork as a dining utensil was in the Byzantine Empire, over 1000 years ago.

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The first recorded use of the fork as a dining utensil took place in the Byzantine Empire, over 1000 years ago. Prior to that, people typically ate with their hands or used tools such as knives and spoons to eat.

The fork was initially seen as a luxury item and was only used by the wealthy. Over time, it became a common tool for eating in many cultures around the world.

17. The spiciest chili pepper is the Carolina Reaper.

The Carolina Reaper holds the title for the world’s spiciest chili pepper. Developed by a South Carolina farmer named Ed Currie, this fiery pepper is renowned for its intense heat. With an average Scoville rating of over 1.6 million units, consuming a Carolina Reaper is not for the faint of heart.

Despite its extreme spiciness, chili enthusiasts around the world seek out the Carolina Reaper for its unparalleled heat and distinctive flavor profile.

18. Sushi was first created in Southeast Asia over 2000 years ago as a way to preserve fish.

The history of sushi dates back over 2000 years to Southeast Asia where it was originally created as a method of preserving fish. Rice was used to ferment the fish and keep it fresh for longer periods of time.

Over time, the practice of eating fermented fish and rice evolved into the dish we now know as sushi. Today, sushi is enjoyed as a delicacy and has become a popular cuisine around the world.

19. Some fruits and vegetables can conduct electricity.

Certain fruits and vegetables, such as potatoes and lemons, have the ability to conduct electricity due to their high water content and electrolyte composition. When inserted with electrodes, these items can complete an electrical circuit and generate a small current.

This phenomenon is often demonstrated in science experiments or used to power simple electronic devices in emergency situations.

Other examples of produce with conductive properties include oranges, apples, and tomatoes, making them not only nutritious but also surprisingly electrically conductive.

20. The average American spends 37 minutes a day cooking and cleaning up in the kitchen.

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On an average day, Americans aged 18 and over spent approximately 37 minutes engaging in food preparation and cleanup activities. However, the time devoted to “meal prep,” which encompasses preparing, serving, and cleaning up after meals, varied significantly across different demographic groups. For instance, men spent an average of 22 minutes on meal prep, whereas women spent 51 minutes.

Young adults aged 18 to 24 devoted 21 minutes to meal prep, while working-age adults (25-64) spent an average of 38 minutes, and those aged 65 or older spent 43 minutes. Employed individuals and those in households without children typically spent less time on meal preparation compared to their counterparts.

These insights are derived from data collected through the 2014 Eating & Health Module (EHM), which supplements the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ American Time Use Survey (ATUS).

21. The First Refrigerator Was Invented in 1834.

In 1820, Michael Faraday, a British scientist, made a breakthrough by liquefying ammonia and other gases using high pressures and low temperatures. Following this, in 1834, Jacob Perkins, an American expatriate living in Great Britain, constructed the first functional vapor-compression refrigeration system.

This system laid the foundation for modern refrigeration technology, revolutionizing how we preserve food and keep our environments cool. Perkins’ invention marked a pivotal moment in history, shaping the way we store perishable goods and contributing to advancements in various industries.

22. One spaghetti noodle is called a spaghetto.

The singular form of “spaghetti” is “spaghetto.” This term originates from the Italian word “spago,” meaning “thin string” or “twine.”

While commonly referred to in its plural form due to the typical serving size, knowing the singular form adds a delightful twist to our understanding of this beloved pasta.

23. A cup of chopped red bell pepper contains nearly three times more vitamin C than an orange.

Red bell peppers are indeed a powerhouse of vitamin C, containing nearly three times more of this essential nutrient than an orange. This surprising fact underscores the nutritional value of incorporating diverse fruits and vegetables into our diets.

While oranges are often hailed as a primary source of vitamin C, red bell peppers offer a delicious and nutritious alternative, showcasing the importance of variety in maintaining a balanced diet.

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