Lunchbox Envy

Why might your lemon not be vegan? How does a lemon affect your empathy? Who used lemons as a contraceptive?

This podcast dives into the captivating world of rice, discussing its cultural and culinary significance as a global staple. Discover why risotto spoons have holes and the intriguing relationship between rice farmers and ducks. The hosts tackle the myths about reheating rice and the science behind cooking techniques. There’s even a whimsical look at rice carving as an art form. End with a delicious saffron risotto recipe and some light-hearted foodie fun!

Discover how to make peanuts dance and which insect pairs surprisingly well with peanut butter. Dive into the quirky history and culinary significance of peanuts, from their ancient origins to modern recipes. Laugh along as unusual food regulations are discussed while comparing homemade treats to commercial snacks. Explore George Washington Carver's legacy and even a unique tradition of adding peanuts to beer. Plus, learn about innovative methods for treating peanut allergies while enjoying humorous takes on sticky peanut butter experiences.

Why should you put salt in you coffee? How does caffeine actually keep us awake? And do we really have coffee to thank for The Enlightenment?

Dive into the whimsical world of eggs with fascinating facts and humorous anecdotes. Discover the unique biology behind yolks and learn how chicken diets influence egg quality. Enjoy quirky stories about cooking with emu eggs for celebrities and the misclassification of eggs in the food pyramid. Play along with the bizarre concept of egg math while exploring delicious recipes like brownies and deviled eggs. Plus, uncover the culinary delights and strange smuggling techniques involving boiled eggs—it's an egg-citing journey!

A little extra morsel all about chocolate eggs. Happy Easter!

Ever wondered why space ice cream has never been to space? Discover the quirky substitutes used during WWII, like carrot sticks! The history of ice cream comes alive with tales from the Georgian era to modern innovations. Explore how different spoons affect taste perception in a fun experiment. Dive into strange flavors like creamy amaretto buffalo, and learn about the art of crafting the perfect vanilla ice cream. It's a wild and delicious journey through the sweet science of frozen treats!

Why do tomatoes taste so much nicer on holiday? How is Napoleon responsible for tinned tomatoes? When do tomatoes scream?

Discover the intriguing history of black pepper and its significance in culinary traditions. Learn how this spice, once used as currency, shaped colonialism and the grocery industry. Explore the unique flavors of Kampot pepper and its journey through time, including its impact during the Khmer Rouge regime. The hosts also share playful anecdotes and delightful recipes featuring pepper, culminating in a tasting of exquisite fermented black peppercorns. This session sprinkles a bit of history and culinary joy into your day!

Discover the story behind Beeton’s unappetizing macaroni and the surprising history of Colgate's lasagna venture. Unravel the secrets of Bologna’s elusive Golden Tagliatella while exploring pasta’s evolution from ancient times to modern culinary art. Dive into the innovative design of cascatelli for optimal sauce retention and the revival of the intricate Sardinian dish, su filinday. Plus, learn about pasta's unique role in Italy’s historical narrative and enjoy a delightful discussion on avant-garde culinary practices!