
The Recipe with Kenji and Deb
Hi, we’re Deb Perelman (Smitten Kitchen) and J. Kenji López-Alt (Serious Eats, The Food Lab, The Wok). We’re professional home cooks, which means we can - and will - make the same meal 57 times in a row on the quest for the perfect recipe. Is it crazy? For us, no, because we do this for a living. But for you? Yes, probably. Which is why you should listen to The Recipe with Kenji and Deb. You'll hear us talk about what goes into writing our recipes — the techniques we test, the ingredients we taste — so that you can be on your way to creating your own perfect recipe. Whether you're cooking meatloaf, pancakes, or chicken soup in all its forms, we got you, and you've got this.The Recipe with Kenji and Deb is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX, a network of independent and listener-supported podcasts. Discover audio with vision at radiotopia.fm.
Latest episodes

48 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 37min
Chicken Soup
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!

Nov 25, 2024 • 8min
A Smidge of Smitten Kitchen Keepers
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!

11 snips
Nov 18, 2024 • 46min
Apple Pie
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.

Nov 4, 2024 • 55min
Take a Break with Home Cooking
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.

12 snips
Oct 21, 2024 • 37min
Popcorn
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.

Oct 7, 2024 • 45min
Baked Ziti
Dive into the playful debate on pasta shapes, where ziti takes center stage amidst heartfelt nostalgia and humorous anecdotes. The hosts share quirky opinions, tackling misconceptions, including the infamous baked ziti vs. lasagna debate. Discover innovative cooking techniques, including a unique waffle iron method, and the importance of selecting quality ricotta. Expect laughter as they reminisce about family traditions and the comforting significance of this beloved dish within Italian-American culture.

18 snips
Sep 23, 2024 • 44min
Caesar Salad
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.

Sep 9, 2024 • 46min
BLT
Join Kenji, a bacon-lettuce-tomato sandwich expert with 11 groundbreaking rules, and Deb, a sandwich scientist known for her seasonal BLT theories. They explore what makes the perfect BLT, from the importance of fresh tomatoes to the debate on whether lettuce is essential. Their passionate banter includes tips on mayonnaise selection, ideal bacon crispness, and the perfect lettuce choices. With humor and nostalgia, they even reveal the secret 'hunch' technique for eating a messy but delicious BLT!

Aug 26, 2024 • 1min
Back for Seconds
The hosts share exciting news about the return of their podcast with fresh content beginning September 9th. They express heartfelt appreciation for listener feedback and support. A fascinating discussion unfolds about the evolution of their podcast concept, highlighting personal memories and inspirations drawn from other talented recipe developers. Get ready for a delightful blend of nostalgia and culinary creativity!

Jul 29, 2024 • 1h 8min
Live from Seattle: Deb in conversation with Kenji
Kenji, the director of the Community Curated Series for Seattle Arts & Lectures, and Deb, a recipe development expert, engage in a lively discussion filled with culinary insights. They uncover the nuances of recipe writing, tackle the issue of plagiarism in content creation, and share personal anecdotes about family meals and quick recipes. The duo dives into the art of mastering small kitchen spaces and humorously debates the complexities of making bagels versus croissants. Their dynamic conversation celebrates food, creativity, and the joy of cooking.
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