Ep 6. Marshmallow

In season 20 episode 6 of Unwrapped, titled "Marshmallow," viewers get an inside look at the delicious and fluffy world of marshmallows. The episode takes a deep dive into the history of marshmallows, tracing their origins back to ancient Egypt where they were made from marshmallow plant sap.

Host Marc Summers starts the episode by visiting a classic candy store in Chicago called Candyality, where owner Terese McDonald shows off a variety of marshmallow treats, from brightly-colored Peeps to artisanal gourmet marshmallows in flavors like lavender and honey. McDonald explains that while marshmallows have been around for thousands of years, the modern version we know today was first produced commercially in the late 1800s by companies like Kraft and Nabisco.

Next, Summers visits the headquarters of Kraft Foods in Glenview, Illinois to see how marshmallows are made on an industrial scale. He watches as massive machines mix and whip ingredients like corn syrup, sugar, and gelatin to create the fluffy base of marshmallows. Summers also learns about the process of adding flavors and colors to marshmallows, which can range from classic vanilla to more exotic options like green tea.

Another segment of the episode explores the many different ways marshmallows can be used in baking and cooking. Summers heads to a bakery in Los Angeles called Sweet Lady Jane, where he samples a "smores cupcake" made with a graham cracker base, chocolate ganache filling, and a toasted marshmallow frosting. He also visits Cinnaholic, a vegan cinnamon roll shop, where he tries a "marshmallow dream" roll topped with marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker crumbles.

In addition to sweet treats, the episode also highlights savory uses for marshmallows. Summers visits a restaurant in New York City called The Stanton Social, where he tries a dish called "sweet potato puff" made with mashed sweet potatoes, bacon, and mini marshmallows melted on top. He also watches as a chef at the W Hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona creates a grilled cheese sandwich with marshmallows and Nutella.

The episode also explores the cultural impact of marshmallows, with segments on popular marshmallow-themed products like Lucky Charms cereal and Fluffernutter sandwiches. Summers even visits a historical reenactment event where he learns about the use of marshmallows as a medicine in the Civil War era. He also delves into the phenomenon of "chubby bunny," a game where players stuff as many marshmallows into their mouths as possible.

Throughout the episode, Summers and various experts offer interesting facts and trivia about marshmallows, such as the fact that the original extruded marshmallow machine patented in the 1900s is still in use in modern factories today. They also explore the phenomenon of "jet-puffed" marshmallows, which get their name from the process of blasting high-pressure steam into the marshmallow mixture to create larger, fluffier marshmallows.

Overall, season 20 episode 6 of Unwrapped showcases the fascinating history and versatility of everyone's favorite fluffy confection. Whether you're a marshmallow devotee or just curious about the behind-the-scenes process of your favorite treats, this episode is definitely worth a watch.