Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street Radio

10 Biggest Food Lies

Jan 31, 2025
Tamar Haspel, a food columnist at The Washington Post, tackles ten shocking food truths that challenge common beliefs about diet soda, organic produce, and more. Amanda Herbert uncovers the extravagant dining practices of 17th-century chef Robert May, known for his eye-popping presentations. Cheryl Day, an expert in Southern baking, fields questions while sharing baking tips and debunking myths about carbohydrates. Together, they spark a lively exploration of food, history, and culinary creativity.
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ANECDOTE

Robert May's Extreme Dining

  • Robert May, a 17th-century English chef, was known for his extravagant and sometimes bizarre dishes.
  • These included pies filled with live frogs and birds, meant to surprise and scare diners.
ANECDOTE

Architectural Feasts

  • May also created elaborate table settings, sometimes featuring architectural elements.
  • One example was a miniature castle and ship equipped with cannons loaded with real gunpowder.
ANECDOTE

The Accomplished Cook

  • Robert May's cookbook, "The Accomplished Cook," featured his portrait, a first for food workers.
  • The book became part of the culinary canon, with his recipes appearing uncredited in later works.
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