State Plate with Taylor Hicks Season 3 Episode 11 Tennessee

In the eleventh episode of the third season of "State Plate," the show explores the distinct flavors and cultural heritage of Tennessee by sampling some of the state's famous delicacies. Hosted by musician and food enthusiast Taylor Hicks, the episode takes viewers on a culinary journey across the state, highlighting the unique food traditions and ingredients that make Tennessee's cuisine so special.

The show begins in Memphis, where Hicks visits the famed BBQ joint, Central BBQ, to try out the state's signature dish - dry-rubbed ribs. He also learns about the history and techniques of Memphis-style BBQ from the expert pit masters who have made this method of slow-smoked meat famous across the country.

From there, Hicks travels to Nashville to explore the city's thriving food scene. He samples some of the city's hottest food trends, including Nashville-style hot chicken, which is known for its fiery spice and crispy texture. He also visits the iconic Pancake Pantry to try their legendary sweet potato pancakes and learn about the restaurant's history and tradition.

Next, Hicks heads to the rolling hills of middle Tennessee to discover the state's proud farming heritage. He stops at Hatcher Family Dairy, where he learns about the family's commitment to sustainable and humane farming practices, and samples some of their delicious cheeses and ice cream.

Moving on to eastern Tennessee, Hicks visits the Great Smoky Mountains to explore the region's rich culinary history. He learns about the Cherokee Nation's traditional foodways and tries out a few recipes, including bean bread and fry bread. He also visits the Ole Smoky Moonshine distillery to sample some of the state's famous whiskey and moonshine and to learn about the history and culture of distilling in the Smokies.

Finally, the episode concludes in Chattanooga, where Hicks tries out one of the state's most beloved desserts - the MoonPie. He visits the Lookout Mountain MoonPie factory to see how these iconic treats are made and to learn about their history and cultural significance in the region.

Throughout the episode, Hicks meets with local chefs, farmers, and food experts who are passionate about preserving the unique food traditions and ingredients of Tennessee. From the tangy BBQ sauces of Memphis to the fiery heat of Nashville's hot chicken, viewers will get a taste of the diverse flavors and cultural influences that make Tennessee's cuisine so special.