Ep 4. Stand by Your Cabbage

The episode "Stand by Your Cabbage" is the fourth episode of the fourth season of A Chef's Life, a PBS documentary series that explores the unique culinary culture and heritage of rural North Carolina through the eyes of Chef Vivian Howard. In this episode, Vivian ventures beyond her traditional southern cuisine roots to explore the many forms and flavors of cabbage in dishes from around the world.

The episode begins with Vivian and her team traveling to a local cabbage farm to learn more about the plant and its seasonal cycle. Vivian's excitement is palpable as she takes in the crisp rows of cabbage heads, noting the various types and colors of the plant. She and her team chat with the farmers about the best way to harvest and store cabbage, and Vivian is struck by the deep connection between the farmers and the land.

Back in the kitchen, Vivian begins her exploration of cabbage with a classic Asian dish – kimchi. She chats with the staff of a local Korean restaurant about the origins and fermentation process of kimchi, and is inspired to create her own version using local ingredients. Watching her chop, mash, and season the cabbage is a lesson in the importance of precision and technique in crafting complex flavors.

Next up, Vivian explores the many forms of stuffed cabbage, from the traditional American version filled with beef and rice to the Ukrainian holubtsi filled with pork and sauerkraut. She chats with a local Ukrainian caterer about the history of the dish in her culture, and learns how to roll and stuff the cabbage leaves without tearing them.

But Vivian's true passion lies in exploring the ways in which cabbage is used in southern cooking. She prepares a flavorful coleslaw using a unique blend of vinegar, hot sauce, and mustard, and experiments with using cabbage leaves as a wrap for a spicy, Cajun-inspired filling.

Throughout the episode, Vivian's enthusiasm and curiosity shine as she learns about the many varieties and uses of cabbage. Her passion for local ingredients and culinary heritage is infectious, and one can't help but be inspired by her creative approach to cooking. The episode is a celebration of the humble cabbage, and a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our communities and traditions.