Ep 2. Southern Eats

The Best Thing I Ever Ate season 9 episode 2 showcases some of the most delicious and iconic Southern eats. From savory to sweet, the food in the South has a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from other regions in the country. In this episode, food experts and chefs share their favorite dishes that embody the essence of Southern cuisine.

The episode kicks off with chef Duff Goldman introducing viewers to his favorite chicken and waffles dish from Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles in Los Angeles. He raves about the perfectly crispy fried chicken paired with the sweet and fluffy waffles, topped off with a generous drizzle of butter and syrup.

Next up, chef Alex Guarnaschelli takes viewers on a journey to Nashville, Tennessee, to try their famous hot chicken. She visits Hattie B's, a renowned restaurant for their spicy fried chicken. Guarnaschelli shares her love for the heat and crunch of the chicken, and how the dish perfectly balances fiery spices with cooling sauces.

The episode then switches to crawfish, with chef Roger Mooking introducing viewers to his favorite crawfish étouffée dish from New Orleans. He explains how the dish is a staple in Louisiana cuisine, and takes viewers through the flavors and textures of this spicy and savory seafood dish.

Next, chef Marcus Samuelsson shows viewers how to make a classic Southern staple – gumbo. He shares his recipe for the dish, which includes the holy trinity of Cajun cooking – onions, bell peppers, and celery – along with succulent shrimp, bite-sized okra, and earthy filé powder.

The episode then shifts to dessert with pastry chef Johnny Iuzzini sharing his favorite Southern sweet – pecan pie. He visits Sugar Bakeshop in Charleston, South Carolina, to try their version of the classic dish. Iuzzini shares his love for the buttery and flaky crust, the gooey and caramel-like filling, and the crunch of the toasted pecans.

Finally, the episode concludes with chef Carla Hall introducing viewers to her favorite Southern drink – sweet tea. She visits Arnold Palmer's restaurant in La Quinta, California, to try their take on the refreshing beverage. Hall shares the history and traditions behind sweet tea, and how it's a staple at any Southern table.

Overall, The Best Thing I Ever Ate season 9 episode 2 is a mouthwatering tribute to the flavors and dishes that make Southern cuisine so unique and delicious. From fried chicken to gumbo, pecan pie to sweet tea, this episode showcases the best of Southern eats.