Ep 4. El Camino Real

A Taste of History Season 5 Episode 4 "El Camino Real" takes viewers on a culinary journey down the historic California Mission Trail. The episode features Chef Walter Staib as he travels along El Camino Real (The Royal Road), which connected the twenty-one California Missions.

Chef Staib begins his journey in San Diego, where he explores the historic San Diego de Alcala Mission and learns about the traditional foods of the Kumeyaay tribe. He then travels north to the Santa Barbara Mission, where he meets Father Larry Gosselin, who shares his knowledge of the Spanish colonial era and the foods that were introduced during that time.

Next, Chef Staib visits the La Purisima Mission in Lompoc, where he meets with historian Mike Imwalle and learns about the history of the mission and the role it played in the development of California's agriculture. Chef Staib's journey continues to the San Buenaventura Mission in Ventura, where he meets with Chef Tim Kilcoyne, who cooks up a traditional Mission-style feast using locally sourced ingredients.

Finally, Chef Staib ends his journey at the San Juan Capistrano Mission, where he learns about the traditional foods of the Acjachemen tribe and watches as Chef Katy Smith cooks up a feast using these ingredients. Throughout the episode, Chef Staib explores the history and culinary traditions of the California Mission Trail, highlighting the unique foods that were introduced during the Spanish colonial era and how they have become an integral part of California's cuisine.

Overall, A Taste of History Season 5 Episode 4 "El Camino Real" is a captivating journey through California's history and cuisine, showcasing the diversity of flavors and influences that make up the state's culinary landscape. Chef Walter Staib's passion for history and food shines through in this episode, as he brings to life the stories and traditions behind the foods we eat today.