What the Food? artwork

What the Food?

42 episodes - English - Latest episode: 4 days ago - ★★★★★ - 1 rating

This is the podcast that uncovers the fascinating origin stories of dishes, food items and drinks from all around the world - old, new, popular and obscure. We're not professionals by any means, just three best friends who fancy discovering more about where the food we eat comes from. Join us for a culinary adventure through time!

History Comedy
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Episodes

Episode 30: Turkish Delight - Edmund's Betrayal

March 25, 2024 07:00 - 1 hour - 42.3 MB

In this episode we embark on a sweet journey to the heart of the Ottoman Empire to uncover the sticky secrets behind Turkish Delight! We delve into the sugary saga of this iconic confectionery, from its royal origins to its role in the famous Chronicles of Narnia, where Edmund couldn't resist its enchanting allure. Join us as we explore how this simple mixture of sugar, water, and starch has captivated tastes and hearts across the globe, transforming from a sultan's indulgence to a worldwide...

Episode 29: Absinthe - The Green Fairy

March 11, 2024 07:00 - 1 hour - 48.8 MB

In this episode, we're venturing into the mystique-laden world of absinthe, the storied spirit known as the Green Fairy. Tracing its roots back to the 18th century, absinthe has bewitched artists and intellectuals with its complex character and rumoured hallucinogenic properties. From its birth in Switzerland to the banquets of Parisian cafés and its controversial ban, we'll explore how this potent brew has made a remarkable comeback, enchanting a new generation. Pour yourself a glass, prepa...

Side Dishes: No Drinks at the Table April

March 07, 2024 07:00 - 33 minutes - 23.3 MB

Welcome to the first episode of Side Dishes! This is our occasional and more-relaxed side show where we discuss current food and drink related news stories. We'll be sporadically releasing these amongst the main show to sprinkle and pepper a bit of extra flavour! In this episode Miles and Dom discuss food delivery via horseback, no-alcohol months, glacial ice cubes, and the unfathomable power of mobility scooters. If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a r...

Episode 28: Ketchup - A Slurry of Trouble

February 26, 2024 07:00 - 1 hour - 44.6 MB

In this episode, we're squeezing out the thick and rich history of ketchup! From its unexpected beginnings as a fermented fish sauce in ancient China, to its transformation into the tomato-based staple on dinner tables around the world, ketchup has a surprisingly tangy past. Join us as we spread the story of how this beloved condiment became a symbol of American cuisine, influenced food culture globally, and continues to evolve. We'll dip into the science behind what makes ketchup so uniquel...

Episode 27: Pancakes - Get Shriven

February 12, 2024 07:00 - 1 hour - 41.8 MB

In this syrup-soaked episode we're diving into the fluffy world of pancakes. From their humble beginnings as a Stone Age staple to becoming a breakfast favourite across the globe, pancakes have a surprisingly rich history. Join us as we flip through time to uncover how this simple mix of flour, eggs, and milk has evolved into the many varieties we love today. Whether you're a fan of the thin, crepe-like versions or the thick, American-style stacks, we've got your cravings covered. So, grab y...

Episode 26: Cornish Pasty - We're Back!

January 29, 2024 07:00 - 59 minutes - 41 MB

And just like that, the What the Food? boys are back! To make this a momentous occasion, we're about to unravel the layers (pun absolutely intended) of a British staple. The Cornish Pasty. From its medieval origins to the latest pasty-related shenanigans, hold onto your hats - and your appetites, as we kick things back off with a meat-filled bang! If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://link...

Episode 25: Falafel - Grandma Gets a Half Portion

July 27, 2022 18:00 - 56 minutes - 38.7 MB

In episode 25 of What the Food?, Andy & Miles navigate the contentious but fascinating story of every vegans favourite wrap filling - Falafel. When taking upon ourselves the noble task of uncovering foods origins, we sometimes stumble on stories that still to this day, have significant and polarising implications. It turns out that Falafel is one of them!  If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! htt...

Episode 24: Haggis - The Roman Tote Bag

July 17, 2022 17:00 - 50 minutes - 34.8 MB

This week on What the Food? we head to the mythical Highlands of Scotland to find out why boiling loads of offal in a meat sack is considered a normal thing to do. Where did this seemingly barbaric dish come from? This episode has it all! Ancient Rome, French gastronomic influence, and even the vikings! Join us as we try to figure out everything there is to know about Scotland's national dish, Haggis.  If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sh...

Episode 23: Barbecue Part II - Gunther the Mustard Maker

July 03, 2022 17:00 - 58 minutes - 40.3 MB

Grab your AR15's and your burnt ends because part 2 is here! We return to the world of barbecue, this time heading to America to complete our barbecue story. Why is barbecue so popular in the US? Who pioneered this cooking method? And what different types are there? All is to be discovered in episode 23 of What the Food?. Join us and let's get these coals fired up! Yeeeehaaaw! If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also,...

Episode 22: Barbecue Part I - How to Tame a Pterodactyl

June 14, 2022 21:00 - 58 minutes - 40.4 MB

Oh boy, this is a big one. In episode 22 of What The Food?, the boys explore the origins of the world's favourite way of cooking meat; Barbecue. Join us as we explore the humble beginnings of slowly cooking meat over hot coals and discover how barbecue made its way to the USA - the undisputed kings of BBQ.  This is the first of a two-part series on the origins of barbecue.  If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, co...

Episode 21: Nutella - The Tale of Two Porky Boys

June 06, 2022 09:00 - 56 minutes - 38.6 MB

We're back and we are back with a large tub of the good stuff! In the latest episode of What The Food?, the boys explore the origins of the world's favourite chocolate spread: Nutella. From prized hazelnuts in the north of Italy to a naval blockade by Napoleon Bonaparte himself,  join us as we stick our fingers into the origins of Nutella. If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://linktr.ee/Wh...

Episode 20: Tempura - Little Fish of the Garden

March 20, 2022 22:00 - 1 hour - 44.1 MB

In the 20th episode of What The Food?, the boys take a trip to the land of the rising sun to explore the origins of Tempura. Tempura is a typical Japanese dish that you'll find in pretty much all Japanese restaurants you visit, and for good reason - it's delicious! Join us as we dive into a rich origin story that involves 3 ship-wrecked Portuguese sailors, Shoguns, green beans and much, much more!  If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharin...

Episode 20: Tempura - Little Fish of the Garden

March 20, 2022 22:00 - 1 hour - 44.1 MB

In the 20th episode of What The Food, the boys take a trip to the land of the rising sun to explore the origins of Tempura. Tempura is a typical Japanese dish that you'll find in pretty much all Japanese restaurants you visit, and for good reason - it's delicious! Join us as we dive into a rich origin story that involves 3 ship-wrecked Portuguese sailors, Shoguns, green beans and much, much more!  Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/whatthefoodpodcast Head over to our website: www.wha...

Episode 19: Poutine - The Light is Quite Right

March 06, 2022 21:00 - 55 minutes - 38.2 MB

In episode 19 of What The Food? the boys take an apologetic trip to the home of the moose to uncover the origins of their national dish: Poutine. Ever wondered how essentially cheese, chips and gravy became a national treasure that is known throughout the world as distinctly Canadian? Well, join us today as we ride the gravy train straight to curd mountain!  There are some audio issues/crackling in the last minute of this episode! Please don't stamp on your expensive headphones thinking the...

Episode 18: Pad Thai - Lisp Neutral

February 20, 2022 23:00 - 47 minutes - 32.6 MB

On the latest episode of What The Food?, the boys head to the land of smiles to take a look at the origins of Pad Thai. A dish that seemingly sprung into existence in the 20th century and whose origins involve political intrigue, a successful coup and WW2. Trust us when we say that you are not going to want to miss this one! If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://linktr.ee/WhatTheFoodPodcas...

Episode 17: Spotted Dick - Aldi's Middle Aisle Animal Market

February 06, 2022 20:00 - 43 minutes - 29.8 MB

Today the boys try to keep a straight face whilst discussing the origins of the quintessentially British pud - Spotted Dick. From investigating the etymology of the puds phallic inspired name to exploring the incredible life of the famous 19th-century chef Alexis Soyer, this episode has it all. Pull up a stool, grab your custard and let's tuck into some spotted dick, shall we?!  Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/whatthefoodpodcast Head over to our website: www.whatthefoodpodcast.com...

Episode 17: Spotted Dick - Aldi's Animal Market

February 06, 2022 20:00 - 43 minutes - 29.8 MB

Today the boys try to keep a straight face whilst discussing the origins of the quintessentially British pud - Spotted Dick. From investigating the etymology of the puds phallic inspired name to exploring the incredible life of the famous 19th-century chef Alexis Soyer, this episode has it all. Pull up a stool, grab your custard and let's tuck into some spotted dick, shall we? If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also,...

Episode 16: Pork Pie - ft WhatWillyCook

January 23, 2022 20:00 - 56 minutes - 38.6 MB

In this episode, Miles and Andy are joined by special guest WhatWillyCook as we explore the jelly-filled world of the Pork Pie. From pies etched into the tombs of pharaohs to fox hunters in Leicester carrying them in their pockets, join us as we discover the origins of the humble pork pie.  If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://linktr.ee/WhatTheFoodPodcast You're feeling extra spicy are y...

Episode 16: Pork Pie - ft @whatwillycook

January 23, 2022 20:00 - 56 minutes - 38.7 MB

In this episode, Miles and Andy are joined by special guest WhatWillyCook as we explore the jelly-filled world of the Pork Pie. From pies etched into the tombs of pharaohs to fox hunters in Leicester carrying them in their pockets, join us as we discover the origins of the humble pork pie.  If you'd like to support the show, please consider giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://linktr.ee/WhatTheFoodPodcast You're feeling extra spicy are you? Then why ...

Episode 15: Casu Marzu - Crying Cow Dunkers

January 09, 2022 14:00 - 56 minutes - 38.9 MB

In episode 15 of What The Food?, the boys take a look at the worlds most dangerous cheese: Casu Marzu. Originating in Sardinia, Casu Marzu involves a wheel of pecorino, thousands of fly larvae and a whole lot of grossness. Despite its "Risk to Human Health" warning awarded by the Guinness World Records, people still keep dipping their loaves into this rotten, maggot-infested cheese.  If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend...

Episode 14: Croissant - The Big Diss

December 22, 2021 22:00 - 58 minutes - 40.5 MB

In this week's episode, we take on one of the most popular breakfast items worldwide - The Croissant! There is more than meets the eye with this buttery, flaky pastry. From the Ottoman Empire to the French revolution and all the way to Kanye West ordering his "damn croissant!", we cover it all. Join us as we try and wrap our heads around the origin of this unexpectedly controversial pastry.  If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with ...

Episode 13: Stamppot - That's a Little Egg

December 13, 2021 11:00 - 52 minutes - 36.1 MB

To honour Max Verstappen and his stunning last-lap victory for the F1 Championship, we're covering one of the most famous dishes to come out of the Netherlands: Stamppot. Stamppot is a traditional Dutch cuisine that supposedly has its roots in the 16th century. From a battle of puddings to all-night benders, join us as we frolic through the dense and complex fields of tulips that is the history of Dutch cuisine.  If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a ra...

Episode 12: Guacamole - This Calls For a Leaflet

November 29, 2021 12:00 - 1 hour - 41.8 MB

In the twelfth episode of What The Food?, the boys cover one of the worlds most Instagrammable foods: Guacamole. A dish that seemingly came out of nowhere one day and conquered the globe in next to no time at all. Well, as we will see, Guac's been around for thousands of years and has a rich, creamy history that includes the Aztecs, Gwyneth Paltrow and clever marketing techniques.  If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. ...

Episode 11: Medovik - The Regal Carriage

November 15, 2021 11:00 - 56 minutes - 38.7 MB

In this episode, the boys take their first step into the Russian Empire as they explore the sweet existence of Medovik. Medovik is a layer cake that celebrates the incredible honey those Russian bees are known to produce. The cake itself takes a ridiculously long time to make and has an incredible origin story that involves an Empress and her disdain for all things Russian. So grab your Ushanka, pour yourself a shot of Vodka and join us we explore the history of Medovik.  If you'd like to s...

Episode 10: Clam Chowder - Pounded Ship Biscuit

November 01, 2021 09:00 - 58 minutes - 40.3 MB

In the 10th episode of What The Food?, the boys head stateside to take a closer look at one of America's first-ever recipes: Clam Chowder.  On the surface, clam chowder is a simple and delicious soup that can be found in many restaurants across America. But as we dig into its history, we'll see this comforting dish is responsible for starting a war, being accused of Witchcraft and much, much more... If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and shari...

Episode 9: Bunny Chow - Marinated Bread Walls

October 18, 2021 11:00 - 57 minutes - 39.9 MB

On this rollercoaster of an episode, we're heading to the nation of South Africa to discover all there is to know about the elusive Bunny Chow! This could be one of the strangest dishes we've covered on the show and the story of it's conception is no doubt, one of great importance. If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://linktr.ee/WhatTheFoodPodcast You're feeling extra spicy are you? Why n...

Episode 8: Bao - Molten Pork Sauce

October 04, 2021 09:00 - 52 minutes - 36.2 MB

In the latest episode of What The Food?, the boys take their first step into Asian Food history with the incredibly photogenic Bao. From legendary military leaders to stepping stones made from severed heads, the history of the Bao is as complex as it is fascinating.  Join Miles & Andy as they absolutely butcher pronunciations and discover how the bao has grown from a local delicacy to a worldwide phenomenon.  If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating...

Episode 7: Jellied Eels - Sea Sausages

September 20, 2021 10:00 - 1 hour - 41.5 MB

Today the boys will be exploring the enigma that is Jellied Eels. One of the most traditional British foods dating back to the 18th century, eels in jelly was (is?!) considered a delicacy by some Brits and to be honest, it's a challenge to understand why. Join Miles & Andy as they try to grip onto the slimy, wriggling story of the questionably edible Jellied Eel! If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say ...

Episode 7: Jellied Eels

September 20, 2021 10:00 - 1 hour - 41.5 MB

Today the boys will be exploring the enigma that is Jellied Eels. One of the most traditional British foods dating back to the 18th century, eels in jelly was (is?!) considered a delicacy by some Brits and to be honest, it's a challenge to understand why. Join Miles & Andy as they try to grip onto the slimy, wriggling story of the questionably edible Jellied Eel!

Episode 6: Strudel

September 06, 2021 09:00 - 50 minutes - 34.6 MB

In this episode, we take a deep dive into one of Europe's favourite pastries: The Strudel.  We explore the pastries Austro-Hungarian roots and how the battle for Europe was one of the key factors that led to the strudels invention.  From apples to cabbages, it turns out you can roll anything in puff pastry and call it a strudel these days!

Episode 6: Strudel - Hot Steamy Mountain of Sauerkraut

September 06, 2021 09:00 - 50 minutes - 34.6 MB

In this episode, we take a deep dive into one of Europe's favourite pastries: The Strudel.  We explore the pastries Austro-Hungarian roots and how the battle for Europe was one of the key factors that led to the strudels invention.  From apples to cabbages, it turns out you can roll anything in puff pastry and call it a strudel these days! Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/whatthefoodpodcast Head over to our website: www.whatthefoodpodcast.com Say hello and suggest a dish for us to ...

Episode 6: Strudel - Hot Steamy Mountain of Sauerkraut

September 06, 2021 09:00 - 49 minutes - 34.2 MB

In this episode, we take a deep dive into one of Europe's favourite pastries: The Strudel.  We explore the pastries Austro-Hungarian roots and how the battle for Europe was one of the key factors that led to the strudels invention.  From apples to cabbages, it turns out you can roll anything in puff pastry and call it a strudel these days! If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://linktr.ee/Wh...

Episode 5: Pizza Part II

August 24, 2021 21:00 - 57 minutes - 39.7 MB

Following on from last episode, Pizza Part II picks right back up where it left off. How did this iconic dish make its way overseas and to the world beyond? How did it become involved in an epic criminal conspiracy? And which misconceptions and false-truths are finally put right? Discover all this in the final episode of our mini-series on the origins of Pizza! No slice is left uncovered...in cheese...and tomato...and pineapple (if you were dropped as a baby).  Head over to our website: www...

Episode 5: Pizza Part II - Increasingly Confused Italians

August 24, 2021 21:00 - 57 minutes - 39.7 MB

Following on from last episode, Pizza Part II picks right back up where it left off. How did this iconic dish make its way overseas and to the world beyond? How did it become involved in an epic criminal conspiracy? And which misconceptions and false-truths are finally put right? Discover all this in the final episode of our mini-series on the origins of Pizza! No slice is left uncovered...in cheese...and tomato...and pineapple (if you were dropped as a baby). If you'd like to support the s...

Episode 4: Pizza Part I - Don't Eat the Sausage Meat Kids

August 09, 2021 11:00 - 1 hour - 46.2 MB

In this episode Miles and Andy dive crust first into the delicious world of pizza. In part 1 of our very first 2-part episode, we explore pizza's ancient beginnings and examine just how far down the history rabbit hole pizza takes us.  As self-proclaimed pizza experts, we know our way around a slice or two so you won't want to miss this episode! If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://linktr...

Episode 4: Pizza Part I

August 09, 2021 11:00 - 1 hour - 46.2 MB

In this episode Miles and Andy dive crust first into the delicious world of pizza. In part 1 of our very first 2-part episode, we explore pizza's ancient beginnings and examine just how far down the history rabbit hole za goes.  As self-proclaimed pizza experts, we know our way around a slice or two so you won't want to miss this episode!  Head over to our website: www.whatthefoodpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/whatthefoodpodcast Say hello and suggest a dish for us to ...

Episode 3: Fish & Chips - Open or Wrapped in a Rug?

July 26, 2021 08:00 - 1 hour - 47.2 MB

In this episode, Miles and Andy explore the quintessentially British dish, Fish & Chips. Which came first, the fish or the chip? Who did it first, the North or the South of England? Rug Weavers frying fish?  Join us as we take a deep dive into all things chippy tea! If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://linktr.ee/WhatTheFoodPodcast You're feeling extra spicy are you? Why not Buy Us a Coff...

Episode 3: Fish & Chips

July 26, 2021 08:00 - 1 hour - 47.2 MB

In this episode, Miles and Andy explore the quintessentially British dish, Fish & Chips. Which came first, the fish or the chip? Who did it first, the North or the South of England? Rug Weavers frying fish?  Join us as we take a deep dive into all things chippy tea!  Head over to our amazing website: www.whatthefoodpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/whatthefoodpodcast Say hello and suggest a dish for us to cover at: [email protected] Thanks for listening!

Episode 2: French Toast - Dedicated Crucifix Cleaners

July 12, 2021 10:00 - 47 minutes - 32.9 MB

In this episode Miles and Andy head into the world of french toast! Is it even french? What did Edward III have to do with it? And why do American people eat it like their life depends on it? Join the boys as they find out what this fried, crunchy and fluffy dish has to say for itself. If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://linktr.ee/WhatTheFoodPodcast You're feeling extra spicy are you? W...

Episode 2: French Toast

July 12, 2021 10:00 - 47 minutes - 32.9 MB

In this episode Miles and Andy head into the world of french toast! Is it even french? What did Edward III have to do with it? And why do American people eat it like their life depends on it? Join the boys as they find out what this fried, crunchy and fluffy dish has to say for itself. Head over to our amazing website: www.whatthefoodpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/whatthefoodpodcast Say hello and suggest a dish for us to cover at: [email protected] Thanks ...

Episode 1: Peanut Butter - Hot Roasted Nuts!

June 28, 2021 09:00 - 1 hour - 45.6 MB

In the very first episode of What the Food?, Andy and Miles take a deep dive into the world of peanut butter.  From Aztec gods to comic strips,  American presidents, and even a peanut society. Come and get nutty with us! If you'd like to support the show, please consider subscribing, giving us a rating and sharing with a friend. Also, come and say hi! https://linktr.ee/WhatTheFoodPodcast You're feeling extra spicy are you? Why not Buy Us a Coffee? www.buymeacoffee.com/whatthefood Thanks f...

Episode 1: Peanut Butter

June 28, 2021 09:00 - 1 hour - 45.6 MB

In the first episode Andy and Miles take a deep dive into the world of peanut butter.  From Aztec gods to comic strips,  American presidents, and even a peanut society. Come and get nutty with us! Head over to our amazing website: www.whatthefoodpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/whatthefoodpodcast Say hello and suggest a dish for us to cover at: [email protected] Thanks for listening!