Episodes
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Season 2 finale is here and it's time to pop the lid on the world of Caviar! This luxurious delicacy has graced the tables of tsars, aristocrats, and celebrity chefs alikeâbut how did it go from a humble fish roe to a symbol of opulence and indulgence?
In this episode, we explore the fascinating journey of caviar, from its ancient Persian roots to its place at the pinnacle of haute cuisine. Weâll unravel the mysteries of how it's harvested, the varieties that reign supreme, and how it once transitioned from peasant fare to elite indulgence. Along the way, weâll dip into the cultural significance of this tiny, briny bite and its surprising appearances in pop culture and history.
Weâll also highlight some modern twists, including the rise of sustainable farming and the chefs pushing the boundaries of what caviar can be in todayâs culinary landscape. Whether youâre a connoisseur of beluga or just curious about this iconic luxury food, this episode will leave you craving more. Prepare to savor the rich and intriguing story of caviar!
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Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
Time to crack open the mystery of the Scotch Egg! This iconic British snack has seen it allâfrom posh London department stores to wartime rations, and even a gourmet revival in the trendiest gastropubs. But where did it really come from, and how did it go from being a travel snack for the upper crust to a staple of the British picnic?
In this episode, we dig into the murky origins of the Scotch Egg, exploring claims of invention from Fortnum & Mason and others whoâve tried to stake their claim. Weâll walk you through its journey through history, from its humble beginnings to its modern-day renaissance. Weâll also spill the beans on the wild creations born out of the annual Scotch Egg Challenge, where chefs from across the UK compete to take this classic to new heights.
So whether youâre a fan of the traditional pork sausage variety or prefer something a bit more adventurous, this episode is for you. Get ready for a delicious dive into the curious history of the Scotch Egg!
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
Episodes manquant?
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Itâs time to stir things up with the saucy saga of Chop Suey! In this episode, weâre diving into the deliciously complicated history of the iconic dish thatâs as much a part of American takeaways as it is Chinese cuisine.
We kick things off by exploring the legendary origins of Chop Suey, from the streets of San Franciscoâs Chinatown to the imperial kitchens of Qing Dynasty China. Was it the result of late-night improvisation for drunken miners, or does it have roots deep in Chinese culinary tradition? Spoiler: itâs a bit of both, and the truth is as tangled as the noodles on your plate.
But itâs not just about the legends â we also dig into historical records that show how a dish of leftovers and offal transformed into a Western favourite. Weâll take you through the cultural mash-up that made Chop Suey a staple across the globe, from the bustling kitchens of Guangdong to the American diners that gave it new life.
So, grab your chopsticks and get ready to learn how this humble stir-fry became a symbol of cultural fusion and culinary creativity.
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Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
It's time to unwrap the foiled sugary saga of Pop-Tarts! The iconic breakfast pastries that have toasted their way into the hearts of millions. From their crispy, frosted beginnings in the 1960s to their status as a pop culture phenomenon, we're exploring how Pop-Tarts became a toasted favourite.
We head back in time to the post-war drive for convenience that led to their invention, touching on the fierce rivalry between Kelloggâs and Post that sparked the Pop-Tart revolution. We also talk about the ridiculous amount of ridiculous sounding ridiculous flavours.
But itâs not all sprinkles and frostingâthis episode also covers the dark side of Pop-Tarts, from their questionable nutritional value to lawsuits involving flaming toasters and misleading labels. It's a treat you wonât want to miss!
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
In this episode, we're uncorking the story of the Austrian Wine Scandal of 1985âa vintage tale of deceit, drama, and diethylene glycol. Imagine the picturesque vineyards of Austria, where a few unscrupulous winemakers decided to give their wines an illicit boost with a sweet but toxic twist.
Join us as we swirl through the details of this scandal that rocked the wine world. We'll explore how a handful of producers tainted their wines with antifreeze to enhance sweetness, sparking international outrage and a massive recall. This wasnât just a small spill; it was a flood that threatened to drown Austriaâs wine reputation.
We'll delve into the aftermath, including how the scandal led to stricter regulations and ultimately a renaissance in Austrian winemaking. This episode is a blend of scandal and redemption, showing how an industry can rise from the dregs to produce some of the worldâs finest wines.
Ready to raise a glass to one of the most shocking chapters in wine history? Tune in and sip on the juicy details!
If you enjoyed this episode, donât forget to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share it with your mates.
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
Weâre unwrapping the story of a beloved culinary stapleâthe sandwich! This versatile delight has traveled through time, evolving from ancient creations to a global favorite. Weâll dive into its rich history, starting with Hillel the Elderâs Passover creation, then moving to medieval Europeâs trencher plates, and finally, the 18th-century gaming tables of the Earl of Sandwich. Discover how the Industrial Revolution cemented the sandwich as the ultimate convenience food for workers, and how it landed in America, sparking a multitude of regional variations from the classic PB&J to the mighty Reuben. Weâll also explore some of historyâs oddest sandwichesâpopcorn and sardines, anyone?
Join us as we celebrate this humble yet ingenious invention that continues to delight and surprise. Ready to take a bite out of history? Tune in and savor the journey!
If you enjoyed this episode, donât forget to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share it with your mates.
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
In this episode weâre stirring up the rich, aromatic history of Plov, Uzbekistan's national dish! Plov isnât just food; itâs a celebration, a symbol of community and hospitality that has been feeding hearts and souls for centuries. For Miles, he thinks it's all fake and this is one big April fools joke...
We travel back in time to uncover Plovâs Persian origins, explore its evolution along the Silk Road, and celebrate its role in the lavish feasts of Tamerlaneâs empire. Join us, as we ladle out stories of it's cultural significance, and the timeless traditions that make Plov an enduring favorite. Letâs dig into the delicious world of Plov together!If you enjoyed this episode, donât forget to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share it with your mates.
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
In this episode, we're diving knife-first into the polarizing pot of Marmite, the yeasty spread that splits opinions as sharply as Brexit, blue steak or having a poo at work. Love it or hate it, Marmiteâs rich history and distinctive flavor make it a British icon worth exploring.
From its inception in the breweries of Burton-upon-Trent to becoming a staple in wartime rations, Marmite's journey is as sticky as its texture. Weâll try our best to uncover how a German scientistâs discovery led to this nutrient-packed spread, and how Marmite became a crucial morale booster in the trenches of World War I.
We also explore Marmite's clever marketing which embraces its divisive nature with the legendary "Love it or hate it" campaign, turning this quirky spread into a cultural phenomenon. Grab your toast, because we're spreading the love (or hate) for Marmite!
If you enjoyed this episode, donât forget to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share it with your mates.
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
Welcome back! In this episode we're diving into the deliciously intriguing salad bowl of history, and talking Caesar Salad. Was it really invented by a Roman emperor, or is there a more tangy and surprising story behind it? Join us as we try and piece it all together. Prepare for the usual concoction of fun facts, history and three idiots. Bon appétit!
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Want to show us some love? Support us at https://linktr.ee/WhatTheFoodPodcast or treat us to a cuppa at www.buymeacoffee.com/whatthefood.
Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
Join us and sink your teeth into the sweet, pillowy goodness of doughnuts! From ancient fried doughballs to modern-day gourmet wonders, we look at how a wartime comfort has evolved into a symbol of culinary creativity worldwide. This episodes takes some strange turns as we discuss the trenches of the First World War, the inventive hands of Captain Hanson Gregory, and a secret doughnut society shrouded in mystery... Oh wait! That's not creepy fog, it's just powdered sugar! Grab a coffee and let's dunk into history. Just whatever you do, don't get your fingers wet!
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
Join us this week at a bubbling smokey cauldron because we're stewing over the rich and hearty history of Goulash, Hungary's beloved dish that's more than just a stewâit's a story of resilience, culture, and culinary evolution. Originating from the rugged plains of Hungary, where cowherds concocted a simple yet satisfying meal, Goulash has transformed into a national treasure and a global comfort food. Infused with the warmth of paprika, this dish has journeyed from humble beginnings to aristocratic tables all around the world. It's a flavorful, beefy episode that we reckon will give you a newfound appreciation for drying red peppers and making a powder from it. Pull up a chair, grab a spoon, and let's all warm our souls together.
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Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
We're unwrapping the delightful world of Dim Sum, the heart-touching tradition that's as much about togetherness as it is about taste. Journey with us from its beginnings along the ancient Silk Road, all the way to the bustling teahouses of modern-day Guangzhou and Hong Kong. In this episode we steam through the rich tapestry of Dim Sum, exploring how these little bites pack big flavors and stories! Whether you're a seasoned Dim Sum diner or just a curious foodie, join us as we dip into the history, heritage, and sheer joy of this exquisite Cantonese tradition. Get ready to have your heart touched, one dumpling at a time.
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
In this episode, we're heading into the compressed, greasy world of SPAM - the iconic canned meat that's polarized dining tables since 1937. From its humble beginnings as a wartime staple to its status as a global culinary phenomenon, SPAM's journey is nothing short of astonishing. We'll slice into its curious rise to fame, exploring how it went from the battlefields of WWII, to household kitchens all around the world. Join us as we try and figure out the origin of this curious, salty treat!
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
In this episode we embark on a sweet journey to the heart of the Ottoman Empire to uncover the sticky secrets behind Turkish Delight! We delve into the sugary saga of this iconic confectionery, from its royal origins to its role in the famous Chronicles of Narnia, where Edmund couldn't resist its enchanting allure. Join us as we explore how this simple mixture of sugar, water, and starch has captivated tastes and hearts across the globe, transforming from a sultan's indulgence to a worldwide phenomenon. We'll also share fascinating insights into its cultural significance and how it's made, ensuring you'll never look at Turkish Delight the same way again. Tune in, and let's betray our entire families together for a sweet cube of the good stuff!
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Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
In this episode, we're venturing into the mystique-laden world of absinthe, the storied spirit known as the Green Fairy. Tracing its roots back to the 18th century, absinthe has bewitched artists and intellectuals with its complex character and rumoured hallucinogenic properties. From its birth in Switzerland to the banquets of Parisian cafĂ©s and its controversial ban, we'll explore how this potent brew has made a remarkable comeback, enchanting a new generation. Pour yourself a glass, prepare your absinthe spoon, and join us as we unravel the tales of rebellion, creativity, and revival surrounding this legendary libation. Remember to drink responsibly as we dive deep into the lore of absinthe. Cheers to an episode filled with intrigue and the spirit of the Belle Ăpoque!
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Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
In this episode, we're squeezing out the thick and rich history of ketchup! From its unexpected beginnings as a fermented fish sauce in ancient China, to its transformation into the tomato-based staple on dinner tables around the world, ketchup has a surprisingly tangy past. Join us as we spread the story of how this beloved condiment became a symbol of American cuisine, influenced food culture globally, and continues to evolve. We'll dip into the science behind what makes ketchup so uniquely delicious and why it's a must-have for fried food lovers everywhere. It's a saucy episode that promises to be as intriguing as it is appetising!
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Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
In this syrup-soaked episode we're diving into the fluffy world of pancakes. From their humble beginnings as a Stone Age staple to becoming a breakfast favourite across the globe, pancakes have a surprisingly rich history. Join us as we flip through time to uncover how this simple mix of flour, eggs, and milk has evolved into the many varieties we love today. Whether you're a fan of the thin, crepe-like versions or the thick, American-style stacks, we've got your cravings covered. So, grab your favourite toppings, and let's get ready to batter up for a pancake journey like no other!
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Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
And just like that, the What the Food? boys are back! To make this a momentous occasion, we're about to unravel the layers (pun absolutely intended) of a British staple. The Cornish Pasty. From its medieval origins to the latest pasty-related shenanigans, hold onto your hats - and your appetites, as we kick things back off with a meat-filled bang!
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
In episode 25 of What the Food?, Andy & Miles navigate the contentious but fascinating story of every vegans favourite wrap filling - Falafel. When taking upon ourselves the noble task of uncovering foods origins, we sometimes stumble on stories that still to this day, have significant and polarising implications. It turns out that Falafel is one of them!
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) -
This week on What the Food? we head to the mythical Highlands of Scotland to find out why boiling loads of offal in a meat sack is considered a normal thing to do. Where did this seemingly barbaric dish come from? This episode has it all! Ancient Rome, French gastronomic influence, and even the vikings! Join us as we try to figure out everything there is to know about Scotland's national dish, Haggis.
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Thanks for listening, and weâll catch you on the next one!
Theme music: âCelebrationâ by Alexander Nakarada. Available for use under the CC BY 4.0 license (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) - Montre plus