Passing the Plate Podcast

What happens when a rocket scientist decides to revolutionize home cooking? Meet Sheila Narayanan, founder of Simply Masala, whose remarkable journey took her from designing jet engines to creating innovative spice kits that make authentic Indian cuisine accessible to everyone.

Join us as we chat about breaking down barriers to Indian cooking, the essential spices every home cook should know, and how food becomes a bridge between ge...

In this episode, we’re digging into the origins of the TV dinner—those individually portioned frozen meals that became a staple of American convenience.

We’ll explore the history, marketing myths, and cultural impact of the TV dinner, and how it shaped mealtime for generations. Have you eaten one recently?

Resources

Explore more about the TV dinner and its modern iterations with these links and resources:

• Visit Storied.com or use c...

As August winds down and the temperatures stay high, we’re looking close at a deliciously refreshing topic: frozen treats. 

In this episode, we’re breaking down the differences between ice cream, sherbet, frozen yogurt, milkshakes, frappes, and more. 

Resources
Stay cool this summer with these websites and resources mentioned in the episode:

• Visit Storied.com or use code PLATE to save 20% off your first StoriedBook and create ...

In honor of National Farmers Market Week (August 3–9, 2025), this episode shines a light on the essential role farmers markets play in connecting communities with fresh, local food. We’ll explore why these markets matter—economically, culturally, and socially.

From supporting local growers to creating space for community engagement, farmers markets are more than a place to shop—they’re a vital part of our food system. 

Resources
...

What happens when Korean flavors meet Southern comfort food? Our guest Cynthia Christensen of But First We Brunch knows exactly how magical this combination can be.

Growing up in a household where kimchi shared fridge space with cornbread, Cynthia learned early on that the best meals happen when different food traditions come together. We talk about growing up between two rich food cultures, how to introduce Korean ingredients into ...

In this episode, we're getting a little corny and taking a closer look at sweet corn—a seasonal staple with a strong presence in summer meals and memories. From its agricultural roots to its place in regional dishes, sweet corn offers more than just flavor. 

We’ll explore how it’s been prepared, shared, and celebrated across time, and why it continues to be a highlight of the summer table. 

See show notes at www.pasingtheplate.o...

Ever wonder how poundcake got its name? Or what makes shortcake, well, short? In this episode, we're taking a close look at the origins of two dessert staples: poundcake and shortcake.

Explore old-world baking traditions to their modern-day variations, and get the stories, ingredients, and cultural moments that helped shape these treats into the classics we know today.

History buff, baking enthusiast, or just someone with a swee...

Two herbs with rich histories that continue to enhance our cooking today. Mint was used medicinally by ancient Egyptians and Romans, while basil traveled from India to become essential in Mediterranean cuisine.

This episode connects ancient herbal wisdom with their culinary applications throughout history.

**This episode of is sponsored by StoriedBook Recipes from Storied. Visit storied.com/plate or use code PLATE to save 20% off you...

When you think of baked fruit desserts, pie might steal the spotlight, but there's a world of regional sweet treats waiting to be known.

Learn about these rustic, practical desserts - from North Carolina sonkers to French Tarte Tatin - that have satisfied hungry families for generations.

**This episode of Passing the Plate is sponsored by StoriedBook Recipes from Storied. Visit storied.com/plate or use code PLATE to save 20% off...

Meet the woman behind the recipes! This week, Lisa sits down with Ashley to uncover the journey that led her to become a food writer, recipe developer, and cooking class instructor. 

This candid conversation serves up a fresh perspective on Ashley's food-focused life.

Find Ashley at:

• Visit the Big Flavors from a Tiny Kitchen website
• Big Flavors events schedule
• Big Flavors newsletter
• Follow Big Flavors on your favorite social med...

Can't tell your bourbon from your whiskey? Don't know why mint juleps and the Kentucky Derby go hand-in-hand? We've got you covered. 

This week, we're pouring a glass of Kentucky's liquid history as we trace how these spirits shaped American culture. Join us for this spirited conversation just in time for Derby weekend. 

Keep the learning going with these resources and websites:

• Our sponsor: Storied.
• Mint J...

Step back to Easter Sunday, 1920. We'll recreate the sights and smells of holiday tables across America through recipes, advertisements, and family stories. 

Learn about traditional dishes that graced these feasts, regional variations, and how Prohibition shaped celebrations. 

Keep the exploration and learning going with these resources and websites.

• Newspapers.com
• Unlocking Ancestral Secrets in the Newspapers!
• How To Find and ...

Pull up a chair as we chat with co-host Lisa Lisson about her path into genealogy and food history.

She shares pivotal moments that shaped her career, practical research tips, and how tracing family recipes sparked bigger historical questions.

Lisa opens up about lessons learned, research wins, and why understanding our ancestors' lives through food matters. See show notes at www.passingtheplate.org/57.

Learn about searching for ...

Want that restaurant vinaigrette or bakery cookie at home? We'll share strategies for recreating beloved dishes, starting with simple observation and tasting notes. 

Learn the art of recipe detection through real attempts - like a NYC bakery's famous chocolate chip cookies and a restaurant's signature balsamic dressing. 

Plus, practical tips for experimenting, adjusting portions, and knowing when "close enough&quo...

This aromatic spice shaped trade routes and transformed cuisines across continents. 

We'll talk all about cinnamon's rich history, bust common myths, and share creative uses beyond desserts. 

Learn about the amazing variety of cinnamon types, plus discover its surprising role in savory dishes across global traditions. See show notes at www.passingtheplate.org/55 .

Links and websites mentioned in the episode:

• Episode 33: S...

We're exploring the essential role of side dishes in creating memorable meals. Learn how these supporting players have evolved from simple vegetable sides to creative culinary statements.

This episode uncovers traditional wisdom about meal balance while exploring modern approaches to side dish innovation. Get ready to make your side dishes shine!

Keep the learning going as you explore the resources and links in today’s...

We're talking about the yummy history of chocolate and the artistry behind its creation. Learn about the distinct profiles of dark, milk, and white chocolate, plus the secrets of modern chocolatiers.

This episode explores chocolate's global influence and its evolution into the sophisticated treat we know today. Get ready to experience chocolate in a whole new light!

 Keep exploring all about chocolate in...

We're talking about the secrets to perfecting everyone's favorite poultry dish. In this episode we are focusing on family stories of chicken dinners while exploring practical tips for achieving juicy, flavorful results every time.

Learn essential techniques from traditional roasting to modern methods, and discover new ways to bring excitement to your chicken repertoire. Get ready to transform your chicken dinner ...

We're exploring the interesting story of donuts and their place in American culture. These yummy treats have sparked regional pride, created lasting family traditions, and even earned a spot at holiday tables throughout history. Learn about the art of cake versus raised varieties, settle the great spelling debate, and discover why donuts remain a centerpiece of celebrations nationwide. Get ready to experience America's fa...