EATSO-FACTO
(useful recipes, useless facts)
EPISODE 1: The Kwa-sahn (croissant)
A Turkish invasion of Budapest, or just a way to cook up some legendary status to a modern pastry? The true* history of the greatest pastry on Planet Pastry.
EPISODE 2: The Reuben
This NY deli staple was actually born in Omaha, NE in 1928, when a hungry player named Reuben asked another player’s son, whose name was not Reuben, to fix him a sandwich. If the cook weren’t so selfless we’d all be ordering the Bernard.
Episode 3: Henry Reviews his knife.
Henry’s got a special knife. And he wants to tell you all about it.
EPISODE 4: The Patty Melt
Necessity was the mother of a very tasty invention with this diner classic.
Episode 5: Crèpes Suzette
Who was Suzette? And what’s she got to do with pancakes, huh?
Episode 6: The Chocolate Chip Cookie
This is one of the few food origin stories with a clear origin. Ruth Graves Wakefield invented the quintessential American cookie at the Toll House Inn in the 1930s.
Episode 7: The Sloppy Joe
The diner staple may have an unfortunate etymology, but the result is an undisputed classic. This easy version adds a little crunch and a smidge of heat to brighten up your day.
Episode 8: Grand Marnier Soufflé
Grand Marnier Soufflé. MMmmmm. This towering cloud of bliss with a subtle cognac and orange perfume will impress anyone who tries it. Just take an 8 year old’s word for it. It’s a masterpiece dessert.
Episode 9: Beef Wellington
It may have more to do with 20th century L.A. than it does with the tall British general famous for defeating Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo, but this richly flavored roast is the epitome of holiday luxury. And the best part? It’s pretty easy.
Episode 10: The Donut
Some say there’s nothing more American than apple pie. But for my money nothing better embodies the melting pot (or deef fryer) of the American spirit quite like the donut. Ours descends from German, Dutch, and English immigrants, and, boy, did they bring with them a real treat.