The Fascinating History and Luxurious Delicacy of Caviar

🐟Caviar is the salt-cured roe of the sturgeon species, traditionally sourced from the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea.

💰Caviar was once widely available and considered an appetizer, but overfishing led to its rarity, making it a luxury delicacy again.

📰The 1960s saw the rise of tabloid journalism, which impacted Jackie Kennedy's public image and led to rumors about her secret caviar diet.

🌍Sturgeon farms in France, China, and the United States are emerging as alternative sources of caviar as wild sturgeon populations decline.

🍽️Caviar is often enjoyed with accompaniments such as potatoes, cottage cheese, or as a topping for various dishes.

What is caviar?

—Caviar is the salt-cured roe (eggs) of the sturgeon species, known for its distinctive taste and luxury status.

Where is caviar traditionally sourced from?

—Traditionally, caviar came from the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea, specifically from wild sturgeon.

Why is caviar considered a luxury delicacy?

—Caviar became a luxury delicacy due to its rarity and high demand. Overfishing and the decline of wild sturgeon populations contributed to its exclusivity.

What other fish species are used to make caviar?

—Salmon, trout, and white fish are often used as substitutes for true caviar, but the sturgeon species is considered the authentic source.

How did tabloid journalism impact Jackie Kennedy's image?

—Tabloid journalism in the 1960s spread rumors about Jackie Kennedy's secret caviar diet and exaggerated her personal life and appearance, influencing public perception of her.

00:01Throughout the 20th century, women's body image played a paramount role in popular culture, with beauty standards constantly shifting.

00:11In the 1920s, the flapper movement celebrated a slim figure, while the 1950s and 1960s embraced the full hourglass look.

01:23Caviar, derived from the Greek and Persian words for 'egg' and 'fish', is a salt-cured delicacy made from sturgeon roe.

02:00Caviar's exclusivity rose as overfishing led to a decline in sturgeon populations, making it a luxury food once again.

03:57Jackie Kennedy's rumored daily diet of a baked potato with caviar was influenced by tabloid journalism and had an air of mystery.

06:30Sturgeon farms in various countries have emerged as alternative sources of caviar as the wild sturgeon species decline.

07:16Caviar is often paired with accompaniments such as potatoes or cottage cheese, enhancing its exquisite flavor.

08:46The taste of caviar is intense and unique, with a creamy potato and cottage cheese complementing the briny flavor of the delicacy.