Passing the Plate Podcast

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...

As 2024 comes to a close, we're celebrating the arrival of the new year by exploring New Year's traditions from around the world. Learn about casting molten tin in Finland and eating twelve grapes in Spain, and discover how different cultures mark the start of a new year in unique and meaningful ways.

This episode is a culinary and cultural journey that highlights the diversity of New Year's celebrations across the gl...

Dive into the history of Jewish deli cuisine, inspired by our guest Daniel Horowitz of MyHeritage. We'll explore how dishes from favorite delis can provide clues to your own genealogy research, while also touching on the significance of kosher cooking and the meaning behind some of the most favored food traditions in Jewish holidays.

Keep exploring and learning with these resources mentioned in the episode:

• MyHerit...

In this episode, we’re chatting about a topic that hits home for everyone—grocery prices. Whether in big cities or rural areas, the cost of groceries can fluctuate depending on location and the type of market you shop at. Join us as we compare grocery costs between two very different regions.

If you're looking for more budget-friendly shopping options, then this episode is for you!

See the show notes at www....

We’re talking about two pantry staples that might seem simple but pack a powerful punch—salt and pepper. From the wide variety of peppercorns to the differences between table and kosher salt, there’s a lot more to these ingredients than meets the eye. 

Join us as we learn about the history of peppercorns, unique uses for both spices, and how they’ve made their way into kitchens around the world. Get ready to spice up your ...

Happy Thanksgiving! In this episode, we're tackling the age-old question: what to do with all those Thanksgiving leftovers? Turkey and stuffing, and everything in between, we'll share our favorite recipes and tips for turning your post-holiday leftovers into mouthwatering meals. 

So, sit back, relax, and let us help you make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers.

 Keep detoxing with these resources and...

Join us as we explore what was on the table during the 1930's Depression Era, when creativity and resourcefulness were keys to kitchend success. Lisa shares insights from old newspaper archives, revealing some surprising Thanksgiving dishes from across the country. 

Ever wondered what Thanksgiving dinner looked like in the South in the 1930s? Or how old family recipes were passed down? 

Tune in to hear our in...

In this episode, we’re diving into family history with a unique twist by exploring how food can act as a time capsule, capturing memories and cultural heritage. Join us as we discuss the idea that food in family photos can reveal stories of tradition, innovation, and personal narratives shared around the dinner table. 

Tune in for a discussion that blends genealogy and gastronomy, and discover how you can use food in photo...