Ep 1. Jam-Asian Fusion

A Taste of History is a cooking show that explores the history of different cuisines and ingredients. The first episode of season 10 is called Jam-Asian Fusion and it delves into the complex history of jams and how they were used in various cultures. The host, Chef Walter Staib, takes viewers on a journey through time to explore how different cultures used and transformed jams to create unique and delicious dishes.

In this episode, Chef Walter Staib takes viewers to the bustling city of Philadelphia where he purchases fresh fruits at a local farmer's market. He then heads back to his kitchen where he shows viewers how to make different types of jams such as plum, raspberry, and peach. Chef Walter explains the importance of using high-quality fruits and the right amount of sugar in the jam-making process.

Next, Chef Walter takes viewers on a trip to Asia where he explores the fascinating history of jams in Chinese and Japanese cuisine. He shares some traditional recipes for Chinese and Japanese preserves, including sweet and savory jams made from vegetables and fruits. Chef Walter also explains how the Japanese transformed the traditional British scone by using red bean paste as a filling instead of the usual jam.

Back in his kitchen, Chef Walter shows viewers how to make some delicious fusion dishes using jams from different cultures. He starts off with a savory Asian-inspired appetizer of grilled shrimp skewers with a spicy raspberry jam dipping sauce. He then moves on to a classic French dish of stuffed pork loin with a peach and thyme jam glaze. Chef Walter explains how the combination of pork and peach has been a traditional pairing in French cuisine for centuries.

Finally, Chef Walter ends the show by highlighting the versatility of jams and how they can be used in unexpected ways. He shares a recipe for an Egyptian-inspired dish of lamb meatballs with apricot jam and pistachio sauce. He explains how the sweet and tart apricot jam pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the lamb meatballs and the crunchy texture of the pistachios.

Jam-Asian Fusion is a fascinating episode that takes viewers on a cultural and culinary journey around the world. The show highlights how different cultures have transformed and incorporated jams into their cuisine over time, and how these sweet and savory ingredients can be used to create unique and flavorful dishes. Chef Walter Staib's passion for food and history shines through in this episode, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in cooking and food culture.