Ep 10. Sweet Potato

In season 1 episode 10 of A Chef's Life, named Sweet Potato, Chef Vivian Howard explores the versatile and beloved Southern staple, the sweet potato. As a North Carolina native, Vivian showcases the different ways people in her community prepare and enjoy the versatile vegetable, from traditional mashed sweet potatoes at Thanksgiving to sweet potato biscuits and even sweet potato pie.

The episode begins with Vivian visiting a local sweet potato farmer and learning about the process of harvesting and preparing the crop. She then heads back to her restaurant, Chef & The Farmer, to experiment with a few sweet potato dishes of her own. She creates a savory sweet potato gratin with thyme and parmesan, as well as a sweet potato hummus with toasted pecans and homemade pita chips.

Throughout the episode, Vivian also shares the history and cultural significance of sweet potatoes in the South. She talks about how they were used as a substitute for scarce ingredients during the Civil War and how they helped sustain southern families during tough times. She also highlights how sweet potatoes have become a symbol of Southern identity, appearing in everything from birthday cakes to southern soups.

As the episode progresses, Vivian takes her sweet potato creations out of the kitchen and into the community. She visits a local pottery studio to learn how to make a traditional sweet potato dish, a decorative object that has been a staple in Southern homes for generations. She then attends a fundraising event where she serves her sweet potato hummus and talks with attendees about the importance of preserving Southern foodways.

Overall, season 1 episode 10 of A Chef's Life is a celebration of all things sweet potatoes. Vivian Howard showcases the versatility of this beloved Southern ingredient, explores its cultural significance, and offers creative and delicious ways to prepare it at home. Whether you're a sweet potato lover or just curious about Southern cuisine, this episode offers something for everyone.