Episode 2
The Higher the Stank, the Closer to God: Camembert Explained
In the second episode Emily and Caroline talk French history, industrialization, and crimes against cheese. Stream Fishwives of Paris wherever you listen to your podcasts, and don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe!
SHOWNOTES
Camembert Explained: French History, Industrialization & Crimes Against Cheese
Camembert isn’t just any French cheese; it’s a national icon, a cultural symbol, and yes, one of the stinkiest cheeses in the world. Nicknamed “God’s Feet” for its unmistakable aroma, Camembert carries a history that’s as dramatic as it is delicious. From legends of runaway priests to modern cheese politics, this humble wheel tells the story of France itself.
In Episode 2 of Fishwives of Paris, hosts Emily Monaco (culinary journalist) and Caroline Fazeli (sommelier) unpack the myths, the scandals, and the flavors that make Camembert unforgettable. Tune in to hear more about:
Camembert vs Brie: Spotting the Difference
Most Americans lump Brie and Camembert together, but true French food lovers know better. In this episode, we explain what sets them apart in taste, texture, and tradition (hint: it’s more than just size).
The Smelly Truth
Camembert’s funk doesn’t come from nowhere. Its bloomy rind is the result of nature’s fungal magic, a delicate ecosystem that transforms milk into creamy, earthy, downright funky cheese. Learn why the smell is part of the story, not something to fear.
A Priest, a Maiden, and a Legend
Like all great foods, Camembert comes with an origin myth. Picture it: the French Revolution, a runaway priest, and a Norman farm girl named Marie. Did they really invent Camembert together? Or is it just a story that stuck? We dig into the legend versus the reality.
From Fields to Factories
The industrial era changed Camembert forever. With train travel and the invention of the wooden cheese box, Camembert went from a local delicacy to a global export. But with popularity came problems, including pasteurization and mass production.
AOP/AOC Politics and Cheese Wars
French food doesn’t exist without politics. Camembert de Normandy has fought to keep its AOP/AOC protections, while cheap supermarket impostors flood the shelves. We break down the legal battles, the cultural stakes, and why American cheese boards often miss out on the real deal.
Crimes Against Cheese
Yes, you can eat Camembert wrong. Scooping out the gooey middle and leaving the rind behind? Cutting a wheel the wrong way? These are the unforgivable sins of the cheese plate. Caroline has thoughts, and you’ll want to hear them before your next dinner party.
Taste Test: Cheap vs Authentic
To settle things once and for all, Emily and Caroline taste-test a bargain-bin supermarket Camembert against an authentic AOP Camembert de Normandy. Spoiler: not all cheeses are created equal.
Listen and Watch the Episode
🎧 This post only scratches the surface. For the full story, listen to Episode 2 of Fishwives of Paris on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music.
👉 Fishwives of Paris is where French food myths go to die. New episodes drop every two weeks.