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!

Discover the universal comfort of chicken soup, often dubbed 'Jewish penicillin' or a nostalgic family favorite. Explore how different cultures celebrate this dish, with heartfelt stories about childhood memories tied to its healing powers. Learn a simple grandma-style recipe for chicken noodle soup, emphasizing the importance of flavorful broth. Hear a lively debate on cooking methods and ingredient selection that shape the ultimate bowl of soup. Plus, enjoy anecdotes on the surprising ways marketing has influenced our noodle preferences!

Celebrate a major milestone as Deb reveals her new audiobook, featuring her cherished collection of foolproof recipes. Dive into the world of relatable cooking experiences that foster connection and joy in the kitchen. Discover treasured recipes like zucchini and pesto lasagna and turkey meatloaf, each accompanied by delightful stories that highlight their significance in gatherings. Plus, learn how listener support empowers independent creators and amplifies culinary voices!

Discover the secret ingredient for a can't-miss pie crust that Kenji swears by! Learn why Deb is the designated pie maker at Thanksgiving. Explore the ideal baking apple and dive into techniques for perfecting the iconic apple pie. Get tips on filling preparation and how to achieve a crispy crust. Plus, enjoy anecdotes about the joys of leftover apple pie, especially after a holiday feast. This delightful discussion brings together culinary wisdom and personal stories, making every listener eager to bake.

Demi Adejuyigbe, a comedian and writer known for his work on the Amber Ruffin Show, joins the fun to share his hilarious quarantine baking adventures. The discussion dives into the chaos of Thanksgiving preparations, exploring ways to enhance cherished dishes like green bean casserole and cranberry sauce. They also tackle the controversial sweet potato debate and offer creative vegetarian main dish ideas. With a blend of humor and practical tips, this conversation shows how cooking can bring joy, even in challenging times.

Dive into the world of popcorn, hailed as 'God's gift to snacking.' Discover the science behind how those hard kernels transform into fluffy delights. Enjoy tales of nostalgic movie nights and family traditions that popcorn has spiced up. Learn about the rich history of this beloved snack and explore the flavorful nuances of butter and ghee. Get tips for perfecting homemade popcorn and exciting flavor combinations that go beyond the classic! Plus, humorous anecdotes about butter stains make for a delightful listen.

Kids say the darndest things, and so do Deb and Kenji. “Nobody likes penne.” “Chiffonade is pretentious.” “I have honestly no idea what my recipe contains.” And they’re not the only ones. There are people out there who call baked ziti — get this — lasagna. While baked ziti may be universally loved as a workhorse of catered buffets, potlucks, and meal trains, Deb and Kenji’s takes on the dish are worlds apart. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Discover the surprising origins of Caesar salad, invented for American drinkers during Prohibition in Mexico. The hosts share a fun take on the experience of enjoying salad fingers-first, emphasizing the social aspects. Learn about the essential ingredients and creative twists on the beloved recipe, including alternatives like miso and unexpected hacks for quick dressings. The light-hearted banter reveals the joy of experimenting with flavors while honoring the nostalgic tales surrounding this iconic dish.