Watch Meals Ready to Eat

Meals Ready to Eat is a television series created by KCET in 2017, hosted by August Dannehl, and featuring renowned chefs Neal Fraser and Tim Hollingsworth. The show explores the history, culture and significance of food in America through the lens of military veterans, who share their experiences with food during their service.

Each episode of the show follows the three chefs as they travel across America, seeking out military veterans who have unique stories to tell about the role food played during their time in service. Through interviews and cooking demonstrations, the chefs learn about the various ways in which food was used to boost morale, provide comfort, and bring people together during times of war and conflict.

One of the main themes of the series is the way in which food can serve as a bridge between different cultures and communities. The chefs explore how soldiers from different backgrounds and ethnicities brought their own unique food traditions to the table, and how sharing meals together helped to break down barriers and create a sense of community.

The show also delves into the challenges faced by soldiers in terms of accessing nutritious and flavorful food while in service. The chefs work with veterans to recreate some of the meals they enjoyed during their time in the military, but with a modern twist that incorporates fresh, local ingredients and healthier cooking techniques.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to an array of mouth-watering dishes, from hearty stews and casseroles to Asian-inspired noodle soups and Mexican street tacos. The chefs demonstrate how to prepare these dishes step-by-step, sharing tips and techniques along the way that viewers can use in their own kitchens.

Beyond the cooking demonstrations, the show also offers a window into the lives of military veterans and the challenges they face upon returning to civilian life. Many of the veterans featured on the show have struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues, and the chefs provide a safe space for them to share their experiences and connect with others who have had similar struggles.

Overall, Meals Ready to Eat is a compelling and immersive series that sheds light on the important role food plays in military culture and the lives of veterans. With its engaging hosts, stunning visuals, and fascinating interviews, the show is a must-watch for anyone interested in food, history, and the human experience.