As the title of this week’s episode suggests, we’re diving into the fish trade and the immigrant story that gave rise to cod-related black markets. We discuss why Portuguese immigrants came to Massachusetts, how they became the backbone of the American cod industry, and how this lucrative market developed fishy practices. Finally, we make fun of Herman Melville.
The Great Molasses Flood
It’s a new year so we’ve got a new episode. This week, we cover one of the great food tragedies of the Gilded Age and its effects on how to make cities safe from industrial accidents. Of course, that means we’re covering one of our favorite topics: the moral failures of capitalism. We also discuss what molasses is, why it was being stored at a distillery and the best places to get cannolis in Boston.
A Lotta Latkes
It’s our wonderful, Holiday special! But we’re not talking about Christmas this year. We’ve got a whole episode on Hanukkah, and more importantly, why people eat latkes at Hanukkah. Join us as we discuss the different kinds of cooking fats, why you have to eat fried foods at Hanukkah, and whether or not latkes are even traditional. Finally, we answer the age-old question: what are cheese pancakes?
Desiccated Grapes
This week, we’re changing it up with a book review! We review The Culinary Crescent: A History of Middle Eastern Cuisine by Peter Heine, which gives readers a lovely overview of the long and storied history of food in the Middle East and among Muslim societies stretching from Turkey to India. We discuss recipes, Faye gives a rundown of her favorite anecdotes, and we discover some interesting overlaps in storytelling.
Special thanks to Clare Roberts of Gingko Press Publishing for sending us the book and to Peter Heine for writing a delightful book. If you would like to purchase the book, you can find it here: https://www.gingko.org.uk/title/the-culinary-crescent/
Liberté, Egalité, Sucre
Get ready with your favorite Victor Hugo novel, because we’ve got Francophone revolutions on our mind this week. But we’re not talking about any revolutions in France. Instead, we dive into the complex history of the Haitian revolution and the ties between the French sugar trade and the first country for black folks in the New World. Also, Faye casts Denzel Washington and Chadwick Boseman in her upcoming Hollywood Oscar-bait film dramatizing the Haitian revolution.
Transformers Take Over Europe: The Chocolate Saga Continues
This week, chocolate does a reverse Columbus by leaving the New World and landing in Europe. From the ships of unbathed merchants to the courts of royalty become the next big thing, and from there, the whirlwind romance between Europe and chocolate began. We discuss how the Industrial Revolution, H.H. Holmes, and condensed milk are all connected through this beloved dessert. Finally, we have an important message for you about democratic responsibility (VOTE)
Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate! AACK!
We’re back in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, but we’re not talking about corn this week. Nope. We’re talking about something even better – cocoa. This week, we discuss one man’s very famous cocoa-on-the-go pot, why Moctezuma drank gallons of chocolate every day, and why cocoa drinks in Mesoamerica were way stronger than any hot cocoa we have today. We also explore the connections between cocoa and religion in Mesoamerica. Finally, we assess our drink-pouring skills (or the lack thereof).
Praise the Corn Gods! Corn, Pt. 2
We’re wrapping up our corn mini-series by going back in time. We start by following the mystery around the domestication of corn in Mesoamerica. Then, we explore the importance of corn in pre-Columbian life, particularly in Mayan and Aztec religions. We discuss the Mayan Maize God and Centeotl, the role of corn in the creation of the universe and mankind, and the real reason why the Aztecs followed the Spanish around with incense. Finally, we discuss the ancient Mayan sport of xbalanque.
They Got Lost Again: Corn in Africa
We’re kicking off a mini-series on corn this week with a return appearance from the world’s worst navigators. That’s right, Vasco Da Gama and crew are back on the podcast as we trace the path of corn from the New World to Africa. We discuss how corn followed European expansion into Africa and helped build European, African, and R&B empires. Finally, Faye has a PSA about Beyonce.
Chop Suey! An American Tale
This week, we’re rushing to California to find gold. We’re discussing how the 1949 Gold Rush created the San Francisco we know and love, and the Chester A. Arthur we know and hate. Plus, we discuss how the uniquely Chinese-American dish Chop Suey came to be, and the role New York Jewish Americans played in making Chinese food famous. Finally, Ria gives some important cooking tips to guarantee you always make good food.