Cooking Across the Ages Season 1 Episode 1 Understanding Culture through Cooking

Cooking Across the Ages is a brand new cooking show that explores different cultures and cuisines from around the world. Hosted by renowned chef, Julia Michaels, each episode features a different theme that showcases the unique ingredients, cooking techniques, and traditions of a particular culture.

In the first episode of season 1, titled "Understanding Culture through Cooking," Julia takes viewers on a journey through the history and flavors of traditional African cuisine. She is joined by special guest, Chef Tunde Wey, who shares his personal experiences and insights on cooking as a tool for cultural understanding.

The episode kicks off with a brief history lesson on the origins of African cuisine, which has been influenced by a wide range of factors over the centuries, including colonization, trade, and migration. Julia and Chef Tunde discuss how these various factors have impacted the development of African cuisine, and how it continues to evolve today.

Next up, Julia and Chef Tunde dive into the ingredients and flavors that are commonly found in African cooking. They showcase a variety of spices, such as berbere, harissa, and jollof spice, and explain how they are used to add depth and complexity to dishes. They also highlight staple ingredients like yams, plantains, and cassava, which feature prominently in many African dishes.

The bulk of the episode is dedicated to cooking demonstrations, where Julia and Chef Tunde showcase several African-inspired dishes. Viewers will learn how to make a spicy West African peanut soup, a flavorful Moroccan tagine, and a savory South African bobotie. Along the way, they provide helpful tips and tricks for recreating these dishes at home, such as how to properly braise meat and how to balance flavors in a complex dish.

Throughout the episode, Julia and Chef Tunde emphasize the importance of food in African cultures. From communal feasts to healing rituals, food plays a central role in many African traditions. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with preserving and celebrating traditional African cooking in the modern world.

Overall, "Understanding Culture through Cooking" is a fascinating exploration of the rich and diverse world of African cuisine. With its mix of history, culture, and cooking demonstrations, this episode is sure to captivate food lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. And with Julia Michaels and Chef Tunde Wey at the helm, viewers are in for a real treat.