While its exact origins are unclear, it's believed to have emerged in the 18th century as a refinement of the traditional broth, possibly influenced by the development of richer, more complex sauces in French cuisine during that period.
Here's a breakdown:
* Medieval Origins: The concept of a clear broth can be traced back to medieval times when they were used as a base for soups and stews.
* 18th Century Development: During the 18th century, French chefs began to experiment with creating a clear broth, free from the cloudy particles that were present in traditional broths. This led to the development of consommé, which was initially a luxury item.
* 19th Century Popularity: Consommé became more popular in the 19th century, particularly with the rise of the nouvelle cuisine movement, which emphasized lighter and more refined dishes.
Therefore, while its roots might be found in older cooking traditions, the French culinary scene in the 18th and 19th centuries is where consommé truly took shape and became a beloved staple of French cuisine.