Ep 8. Historic Locust Grove

In season 11 episode 8 of A Taste of History, viewers are taken on a culinary journey through the historic site of Locust Grove. Located in Louisville, Kentucky, this former home of William and Lucy Clark Croghan has a rich history dating back to the late 18th century.

Host Chef Walter Staib starts by exploring the kitchen garden, where fresh produce is grown just as it would have been during the Croghan's time. He then heads to the kitchen, where he prepares a classic Kentucky dish: burgoo. This hearty stew typically contains a mix of meats (often pork, beef, and lamb), along with vegetables like carrots, corn, and okra. Chef Staib's version includes rabbit and venison, making it a true taste of the region.

Next, Chef Staib heads to the smokehouse, where William Croghan's original recipe for country ham is still used today. The ham is cured and smoked on-site, and Chef Staib gets a firsthand look at the process before sampling the finished product.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to glimpses of the stunning Locust Grove property, including the main house and outbuildings. The Croghan family's history is also explored, including their connections to important figures like George Rogers Clark (William Croghan's brother-in-law) and George Washington (who visited Locust Grove several times).

In addition to the burgoo and country ham, Chef Staib prepares several other dishes using ingredients from the kitchen garden and surrounding countryside. He even has a chance to sample a unique local dish known as the "hot brown," a sandwich made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce.

Overall, this episode of A Taste of History offers a tantalizing look at the intersection of history and cuisine. Viewers are left with a newfound appreciation for the flavors and traditions of Kentucky, along with a desire to visit Locust Grove and experience its rich history for themselves.