Ep 11. Dip It Good

In the season 4 episode 11 of Food: Fact or Fiction?, titled "Dip It Good," host Michael McKean explores the history and myths surrounding dips and spreads. From the classic French onion dip to the trendy avocado toast, McKean delves into the origins of popular dips and separates fact from fiction.

The episode starts with a basic question: what exactly is a dip? According to McKean, a dip is any food that is served with another food as an accompaniment. He goes on to explain the cultural significance of dips, which have been a part of human diets since ancient times. McKean visits a museum to learn about the ancient Aztec dip called "chamoy," which is made from pickled fruit and spices. He also explores the history of hummus, which has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries.

McKean then moves on to debunking some popular myths about dips. For example, he dispels the myth that French onion dip was invented by Lipton in the 1950s. In reality, the dip has been around since the 1700s, when French chefs started adding onions to their sauces. McKean also debunks the myth that guacamole is a traditional Mexican dip. In fact, the first recipes for guacamole appeared in American cookbooks in the 1940s.

Next, McKean examines some popular dip pairings and explores their cultural significance. He visits a New York deli to learn about the history of lox and cream cheese, which became popular among Jewish immigrants in the early 20th century. He also explores the origins of spinach and artichoke dip, which became popular in the 1990s as a result of growing interest in Mediterranean cuisine.

Finally, McKean wraps up the episode by showcasing some innovative dip recipes. He visits a restaurant that serves "dippable" dishes like chicken wings and pizza, and tries out some unconventional dips like cilantro pesto and bacon jam. The episode ends with McKean reaffirming the importance of dips in our diets and reminding viewers that dips can be both delicious and nutritious.

Overall, "Dip It Good" is an entertaining and informative episode that explores the history and myths surrounding dips and spreads. McKean's enthusiasm for the subject matter is contagious, and viewers are sure to learn something new about their favorite dips and dip pairings. Whether you're a seasoned dip aficionado or just a casual snacker, this episode is sure to whet your appetite.