The Recipe with Kenji and Deb

Ashley Rose Young, a historian at the Smithsonian's American Food History Project, dives into the extraordinary life of Lena Richard, a groundbreaking African American chef. Lena rose to fame long before Julia Child, overcoming racial and gender barriers to become a culinary icon in New Orleans. The conversation explores her innovative recipes, including the famous gumbo, and the challenges she faced in a segregated society. Young highlights Lena's enduring legacy and her significant contributions to American culinary traditions.

Dive into the world of hummus, where homemade beats store-bought every time. Experience the joy of serving warm, creamy dips and the importance of presentation. Discover the hosts' take on trendy flavors and the rich history of this beloved dish. Learn about the critical role of tahini and techniques for achieving that perfect smooth texture. Engage in light-hearted debates about culinary creativity and unconventional hummus uses. It's a fun and flavorful exploration of a snack staple!

You’re really only technically eating a vegetable with broccoli cheddar soup — it is insistently not health food, but a giant middle finger to whoever invented the four food groups. It is a “you sure about that?” to the likes of President George HW Bush, who famously and controversially banned broccoli from Air Force One. Plus, we get to the bottom of broccoli vs broccoli rabe vs broccolini, and a broccoli dish to impress.Recipes Mentioned: Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Serious Eats) Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Smitten Kitchen) Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Discover the secrets behind achieving the ultimate crispy chicken cutlet. The hosts share delicious variations, from Austrian schnitzel to Japanese katsu, highlighting the adaptability of this dish. Dive into the debate about American versus Asian frying techniques and enjoy personal anecdotes that evoke nostalgia. Learn practical tips on oil management, frying methods, and the science behind a perfect crust. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, there's something to make your taste buds dance!

Brownies are the ultimate dessert, a divine mix of cake and cookie, that fill your kitchen with heavenly aromas. The hosts dive into the debate over enjoying them warm or cold, tracing their origins and discussing different recipes. They also experiment with olive oil as a substitute for butter, enhancing texture and flavor. Plus, there's talk of perfecting brownies, creative takes like brownie waffles, and the joy of gossip over sweet treats. Expect a delightful blend of personal anecdotes and culinary creativity!

Discover the surprising origins of nachos, invented for American ladies at a Mexican border town. Dive into the evolution of this beloved snack, learning about both robust Texas-style and traditional variations. Get tips for crafting stunning leftover nachos and engaging ideas for Super Bowl party foods, including unique alternatives beyond nachos. The hosts share personal anecdotes and culinary insights that will elevate your snack game to new heights, making this a must-listen for any food enthusiast.

Discover the fascinating history of Italian-American meatballs and their cultural significance. Learn how these delicious creations cleverly stretch ingredients to feed larger crowds. Dive into the ideal meat blends for optimal flavor and texture, along with essential techniques for crafting the perfect bite. Explore seasoning choices that elevate the dish and the joy of cooking with kids. Celebrate the playful versatility of meatballs, with lively discussions on serving styles and creative cooking methods that invite everyone to join the meatball party!

Dive into the world of onion soup, where a simple bag of onions transforms into a million-dollar dish. Discover the art of caramelizing onions and the magic of homemade beef broth to elevate flavors. Journey through quirky anecdotes of cooking in small spaces and the historical significance of onions. Explore variations, from vegetarian options to creative cheese additions. Laugh at the delightful messiness that comes with enjoying this classic soup, and uncover cooking tips that make it easier and more delicious than you imagined!

J. Kenji López-Alt, a culinary expert and author known for his work at Serious Eats, dives into the world of stir-frying. He shares the fascinating history and evolution of woks, alongside practical tips to achieve restaurant-quality stir-fries at home. Discover the concept of 'wok hey' and why motion is key for flavor enhancement. Kenji also explores unconventional wok techniques, like toasting salt for added smokiness, while advocating for the fusion of science and joy in cooking.

Explore the fascinating world of breakfast sandwiches, especially the iconic bacon, egg, and cheese. Discover the nostalgic charm of New York's bodegas and their influence on sandwich culture. The discussion highlights the evolution from fast food staples to gourmet delights. Delve into the art of crafting the perfect egg sandwich, focusing on cheese selection, bread choices, and cooking techniques. With humorous anecdotes and culinary insights, you'll never overlook this breakfast classic again!