Ep 1. Episode 1

Somewhere South is a television series hosted by the renowned chef, author and food activist, Vivian Howard. The show digs deep into the cultural roots of Southern cuisine, tracing the delectable journey of regional food and its impact on family and community traditions. The first episode of season one introduces Vivian’s culinary adventures through the lens of an iconic Southern staple – barbecue.

Episode 1 takes us to North Carolina’s fertile lands, where Vivian explores the vibrant world of barbecue and learns the intricate art of smoking the perfect pork. She meets legendary pitmasters and talks to farmers who raise heritage hogs to preserve the unique flavor of Carolina style barbecue. Vivian also takes on the challenge of putting a modern twist on this timeless classic, creating a mouth-watering dish that stays true to its roots while incorporating new techniques and fresh ingredients.

The episode begins with Vivian reminiscing about her childhood days spent at her grandparents' house, where whole-hog barbecue was the centerpiece of every festive occasion. She speaks about the cultural significance of barbecue in the South, where it remains a cherished tradition passed down from generation to generation. She highlights the importance of keeping these traditions alive and preserving the legacy of regional foodways that define Southern cuisine.

Vivian then heads to Sam Jones BBQ, where she meets with Sam Jones, a fourth-generation pitmaster who has amassed a cult following for his flavorsome pork. Sam takes Vivian on a tour of his wood-fired pits, explaining the nuances of getting the right temperature and smoke balance to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. He also shares the secret behind his signature vinegar-based sauce, a tangy concoction that cuts through the richness of the pork, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Next, Vivian visits the Green Button Farm, where she meets with Ben and Kristen Knight, who raise heritage-breed hogs in an effort to preserve the unique traits of Carolina-style barbecue. They explain how these hogs, known for their small size and intense flavor, were once a staple in the region but got replaced by commercial breeds that were easier to raise and faster to mature. Vivian learns about the challenges of raising heritage hogs, which require a more hands-on approach and a longer time to reach maturity. She also gets a taste of the difference in flavor, texture, and tenderness that comes from using heritage breeds in barbecue.

After visiting the farm, Vivian heads to Raleigh, where she puts her own spin on Carolina-style barbecue at Poole's Diner. She works with Chef Ashley Christensen, a James Beard award winner, to create a dish that showcases the versatility and creativity of Southern cuisine. Together, they prepare a dish of smoked pork glazed with a mustard-based sauce and served with a side of apple and fennel coleslaw. Vivian talks about the inspiration behind the dish, which draws from the traditional flavors of Carolina barbecue while incorporating new techniques and ingredients.

Throughout the episode, we get to witness Vivian's infectious personality and genuine curiosity, which makes her an endearing host and an excellent storyteller. Her passion for food and culture shines through as she explores the history and traditions of Southern cuisine, through the eyes of the people who make it and the families who share it.

In conclusion, the first episode of Somewhere South takes us on a fascinating journey of discovery and adventure, highlighting the rich traditions and cultural heritage of Southern barbecue. With Vivian Howard's warm and engaging presence, we get to experience the flavors, smells, and sounds that define Southern cuisine, and witness the enduring power of food to bring people together.