Ep 2. Southern Fried Asheville

In the second episode of I Hart Food season 1, Hannah Hart sets her sights on the city of Asheville, North Carolina, a burgeoning foodie destination in the heart of the South. She quickly discovers that Southern cuisine is all about comfort food – from fried chicken to biscuits and gravy – and that Asheville has no shortage of creative takes on classic dishes.

Hannah begins her visit in the charming Biltmore Village, where she samples some award-winning coffee at a local roastery before heading to a nearby biscuit restaurant. There, she tries a variety of unique biscuit dishes, like a fried chicken biscuit with pimento cheese and jalapeño jelly and a biscuit with pulled pork and BBQ sauce. Hannah is impressed by the creativity and flavor combinations of the dishes, but also the warm hospitality of the locals.

Next, she visits a restaurant specializing in Southern barbecue. She tries a variety of meats and sides, like pulled pork, smoked chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens. Hannah notes that in the South, barbecue is a way of life, and the flavors are deeply rooted in tradition. She also learns about the cooking process, like how the meat is cooked low and slow over hickory wood for hours to achieve the perfect tenderness and smokiness.

Hannah then travels to a local brewery, where she not only samples some craft beers but also tries some creative pub fare. She indulges in a unique spin on poutine with sweet potato fries, pork belly, and cheese curds, as well as a sandwich with pulled pork, bacon, and peach coleslaw. Hannah notes that Asheville has a strong culture of craft beer and brewery hopping, and that it's a great way to experience the city's food scene.

Finally, Hannah meets up with a local chef who specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. She learns about the importance of using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients in Southern cooking, and even tries her hand at making her own dish with fresh herbs and vegetables from the chef's garden. Hannah notes that in addition to the comfort foods that the South is known for, there is also a growing movement towards fresh, vegetable-based dishes that are still deeply rooted in Southern tradition.

Throughout her visit to Asheville, Hannah is struck by the warmth and hospitality of the locals, as well as their love of food. She notes that Southern cuisine is more than just the dishes themselves – it's about the culture and community that surrounds them. Hannah leaves Asheville with a full stomach and a newfound appreciation for Southern hospitality and cuisine.