The Mind of a Chef Season 2 Episode 5 Preserve

In The Mind of a Chef season 2 episode 5 titled "Preserve," viewers join chef Sean Brock on a journey to explore the art of preservation. Throughout the episode, Brock delves into various methods of preserving food, ranging from traditional smoking and salting techniques to more modern methods like pickling and pressure canning.

The episode begins with Brock visiting Benton's Smoky Mountain Country Hams in Madisonville, Tennessee, where he learns about the time-honored practice of curing ham. Brock examines the process of smoking and aging ham, noting the importance of following traditional methods to ensure the best possible flavor.

Next, Brock travels to Savannah, Georgia, where he visits the Kimball House restaurant to learn about pickling and fermentation. Chef de cuisine Brian Baxter shows Brock how to make kimchi and explains the science behind fermentation. Brock also learns about the history of pickling, including how sailors used salted vegetables like sauerkraut to stave off scurvy during long journeys at sea.

In the next segment, Brock explores the art of canning at the Southern Food and Beverage Museum in New Orleans. He gets a crash course in pressure canning from museum founder Liz Williams, who explains how to safely preserve food using this method. Brock also examines the history of canning, including its role in combating food shortages during World War II.

Throughout the episode, Brock reflects on the cultural and historical significance of food preservation. He notes that, throughout history, food preservation has been a crucial way for people to ensure they have enough to eat during lean times. He also comments on the importance of preserving cultural traditions around food, such as the Tennessee ham curing process he witnessed earlier in the episode.

As the episode comes to a close, Brock reflects on the lessons he's learned about preservation. He notes that, despite the prevalence of canned and packaged foods in modern times, the art of preservation remains as important as ever. By preserving food, we can ensure that we have access to fresh, nutritious meals year-round, even in the face of environmental and other challenges.

Overall, "Preserve" is an engaging and informative exploration of the art of food preservation. Viewers will come away with a greater appreciation for the history and cultural significance of various preservation methods, as well as practical tips for preserving their own food at home. As always, Brock's infectious enthusiasm and passion for food make him a compelling and entertaining host.