Hole Food

Circular breads, shaped like toruses ("donuts") have been a part of the history of baking all around the world. Why have there always been bakery goods with holes in the middle? They have a couple of advantages that are common wherever they were developed, which is explained in the first couple of minutes of this video. But who came up with bagels and donuts? Bagels are more ancient, and became unique by being boiled before baking. The origin of the bagel itself has many versions, and we don't know how each story (if true) contributed to the bagels we eat today. Donuts are sweeter and fried, which makes them particularly American. (via Laughing Squid)