Ep 9. Preserving Culture
- January 9, 2021
The episode, titled "Preserving Culture," dives into the world of preserving food cultures and traditions. Hosts Heidi Noble and Matt Basile start their journey in New York City, where they visit a Hmong farmers market. The Hmong are an ethnic group from Southeast Asia who have their own unique food culture. The hosts learn about the Hmong cuisine and the challenges of preserving their food traditions in America.
Next, they travel to Philadelphia, where they meet Tara Mataraza Desmond, an author who has written a book on preserving food traditions. They discuss the importance of food traditions and the role they play in connecting us to our heritage and history. They walk through the streets of Philadelphia, where they visit an Italian market, and Tara shares her family's history and how she has been preserving her food culture.
The hosts then go to Montreal, where they meet with a chef who owns a traditional Quebecois restaurant. He talks about the history of traditional Quebecois cuisine and how they have preserved their food culture through the generations. They visit a local farmers market, where they taste traditional Quebecois dishes and learn about the ingredients used in this cuisine.
After Montreal, the hosts travel to Mexico, where they meet a family who specialize in making Oaxacan cheese. They learn about the history of Oaxacan cheese and how it is made. The hosts visit a local market and taste dishes made with Oaxacan cheese. They also learn about the challenges of preserving traditional food practices in today's modern world.
The episode ends with the hosts discussing the importance of preserving food cultures and traditions. They talk about how food is not just about sustenance but also acts as a bridge between people and their history. They encourage viewers to learn about their own cultural food traditions and preserve them for future generations.
Overall, "Preserving Culture" is a fascinating and informative episode that highlights the importance of preserving food cultures and traditions. The hosts take viewers on a journey around the world, showcasing the different food cultures and the challenges they face in preserving them. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in food, culture, and history.