

Proof
America's Test Kitchen
We take America's Test Kitchen's inquisitive and relentless approach to telling unexpected, funny, and thought-provoking narratives about food and drink. This is not a recipe show. And this is not a show about celebrity chefs or what they like to eat. Proof plunges into history, culture, science, and the psyche to uncover the hidden backstories that feed your food-obsessed brain. A production of America's Test Kitchen.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 8, 2024 • 25min
Barbecue Trailblazers: The Woman Who Gave Us Fajitas (Episode 2)
Ninfa Laurenzo, affectionately known as Mama Ninfa, was a culinary icon who revolutionized Tex-Mex cuisine in the U.S. She shares her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to establishing a legendary Houston restaurant, known for Tacos al Carbon and the popularization of fajitas. The discussion delves into her influence on community dynamics and culinary traditions, her innovative leadership, and the cultural significance of her dishes. With rich anecdotes, Ninfa's legacy as a trailblazer and her resilience in the face of challenges shine through.

Aug 1, 2024 • 29min
Barbecue Trailblazers: The Queen of Smoke (Episode 1)
Discover the journey of Helen Turner, a legendary pitmistress redefining women's roles in the barbecue world. This exploration reveals her commitment to traditional Tennessee barbecue, where smoke infuses flavor into every dish. Hear about the cultural ties between community and food and the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated industry. As Helen considers retirement, the podcast delves into legacy, tradition, and the future of barbecue, capturing the heart and soul of Southern cooking.

Jul 25, 2024 • 4min
Introducing When Southern Women Cook: Our Miniseries on Barbecue Trailblazers
For far too long, the art of barbecue and grilling have been considered “men’s work.” But women were cooking with fire since the earliest days of American history, too. In our next miniseries on Proof, hosted by Cook's Country magazine's Toni Tipton-Martin and Morgan Bolling, we profile four women who have been stoking embers and bringing the heat to Southern cuisine. The first episode drops Thursday, August 1!This series is also an audio companion to a forthcoming book from America’s Test Kitchen called Women Southern Women Cook: History, Lore, and 300 Recipes from Every Corner of the American South. You can preorder the book where books are sold:
IndieBound
Amazon
America’s Test Kitchen Store
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Jul 11, 2024 • 31min
100 Proof: From 100 to Zero Proof (Episode 6)
Explore the transition to innovative non-alcoholic beverages at Binge Bar. Learn how to create a capsule bar and enjoy cocktail recipes from The Moth Podcast. Discover the modern cocktail revival and diverse creations inspired by Vietnamese cuisine. Dive into the trend of zero-proof beverages and the unique creations at Binge Bar. Acknowledge the team behind the episode and engage with the podcast's creators.

8 snips
Jul 3, 2024 • 34min
100 Proof: The Dark Ages (Episode 5)
Exploring the 'Dark Ages' of cocktails from the 1950s to the 1990s, featuring iconic drinks and their impact on cocktail history. Learn how TGI Fridays, Madonna, and the Cosmopolitan shaped this era of American mixology. Dive into the influence of historical events on bartending culture and Audrey Saunders' journey in the cocktail industry.

6 snips
Jun 27, 2024 • 30min
100 Proof: Prohibition (Episode 4)
Discover the influence of Prohibition on cocktail innovation, featuring classics like the Bees Knees and Bloody Mary. Learn about the Temperance Movement, illegal alcohol trade, and mobsters like Al Capone. Explore the migration of bartenders, women's bars in Paris, and the evolution of the Bloody Mary cocktail.

8 snips
Jun 20, 2024 • 34min
100 Proof: The Golden Age of Cocktails (Episode 3)
Explore the origins of iconic cocktails like the Martini, Manhattan, and Daiquiri in America's Golden Age. Learn how the Industrial Revolution, immigration, and innovations shaped the modern cocktail scene. Discover the impact of vermouth on American drinking culture and the rise of bartenders during the California Gold Rush. Dive into the legacy of pioneering bartender Jerry Thomas and the evolution of classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Martini.

Jun 6, 2024 • 31min
Buy Me Some Biryani and Cracker Jack
The Cricket World Cup started this week, and fans in New York are celebrating the wickets, the fast bowlers, and biryani. How did the rice dish become the meal of the match? Journalist Kunwar Khuldune Shahid reports. (100 Proof will be back on June 20.)Make Biryani at home with our tested recipe. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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4 snips
May 30, 2024 • 40min
100 Proof: The Dawn of the American Cocktail (Episode 2)
Explore the origins of the word 'cocktail' and the stories behind the Mint Julep and Sazerac drinks. Learn about the cultural significance of the Kentucky Derby and the evolution of classic cocktails. Dive into the history of cocktails from ancient civilizations to the American cocktail scene. Discover the role of Frederick Tudor in revolutionizing the cocktail scene with ice. Understand the ingredients and crafting process of classic cocktails like the mint julep and Sazerac.

5 snips
May 23, 2024 • 38min
100 Proof: It Wasn't Always Like This (Episode 1)
Discover the rise of modern mixology with Death & Co. Explore the evolution of cocktails from novelty to refined choices. Learn about the influence of Audrey Saunders and the revival of classic cocktails. Dive into the origins of the Last Word cocktail and its variations. Uncover the impact of bartender Murray Stenson and the transformation of cocktail recipes.