Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street Radio
Every week, Milk Street Radio travels the world to find the most fascinating stories about food—a detective who tracks down food thieves and a look inside the most famous (and often scandalous) restaurant kitchens—and interviews with culinary icons such as José Andrés, Padma Lakshmi, Jacques Pépin, and Marcus Samuelsson. And on Milk Street Radio you can always find the unexpected: the comedian who ranks apples using an elaborate 100-point system, the scientists who study if vegetables have souls, and the journalist who reveals the world’s 10 biggest food lies. We also answer our listeners’ cooking questions, find out how to make the perfect cup of coffee, and share how to eat your way through Italy.
Episodes
Welcome to The Hong Kong Diner! Black Pepper Spaghetti and Deep-Fried French Toast
Chef Lucas Sin’s quickest dining experience clocked in at 6 minutes and 40 seconds. This expedient supper took place at a famous cha chaan teng, or Hong Kong diner, and he believes it’s one of the best restaurants in the world. From the extensive menu—french toast, black pepper spaghetti, milk tea, the list goes on—to the more abstract “human emotion flavor” that keeps diners coming back,
Pink Margarine?! America’s Greatest Food Fight
99% Invisible’s Chris Berube shares margarine’s secret history—from Supreme Court battles to Eleanor Roosevelt’s advertising campaign—and why in some states you could only buy margarine that was dyed pink or black. Plus, we learn about snacks from around the world with Unsnackable’s Folu Akinkuotu; Dan Pashman tells us what there is to love about canned foods; and we make Brazilian-Style
Steakhouse Secrets: What Nobody Tells You About The Perfect Steak
Food writer Tim Hayward shares the juicy history of the steak. We take a peek inside the secret beefsteak societies of England and New York, learn a classic Argentinian salting method, and try a steak from a 25 year-old-cow in Spain. Plus, Kenji López-Alt goes on a quest for the perfect teriyaki; Sara Moulton and Chris take your cooking calls; and we prepare a Sunflower Hummus from Georgi
Alexis Nikole Nelson Eats the Weeds: Extended Cut
In this special episode, we’re releasing an extended cut of our interview with Alexis Nikole Nelson. She tells us about the foraged ingredients you won’t find at your grocery store (like mugwort and magnolia flowers!) and the dishes she creates with them. Plus, Alexis reveals her favorite spot in New York City for foraging maitake mushrooms.Photo credit: JB DouglasListen to Milk Street Ra
Alexis Nikole Nelson Eats the Weeds: Recipes from the Wild
Alexis Nikole Nelson, known on TikTok as the Black Forager, has been foraging wild ingredients as long as she can remember. In her new book, "Happy Snacking, Don’t Die!", she shares what she cooks with them—including pickled onion grass and mushroom sour candy—and reveals a run-of-the-mill weed that might help flavor Dr. Pepper. Plus, we visit Arianna Pasquini to find out what Romans actu
The Secret History of Food Words
For this week's bonus, we're going back into the archives with our good friends Grant Barrett and Martha Barnette from the radio show A Way With Words. In our first-ever episode together from 2019, they discuss why some restaurant servers ask “Will you be wanting anything else?" They also explain phrases that seemingly don’t make a lot of sense, such as “in a pickle.” Plus, master spice b
Dining Dos, Dining Don’ts: The New Rules of Restaurant Etiquette
Bon Appétit columnist Maggie Hennessy helps us navigate the new rules of dining out. Is it ever OK to take out your phone? What’s the best way to grab your server’s attention? And how fussy is too fussy? Plus, Irene Yoo throws a soju party, and Grant Barrett and Martha Barnette of A Way With Words share the stories behind your favorite pasta shapes. (Originally aired September 26, 2025.)P
Green Spaghetti and Cowboy Candy: Pati Jinich Celebrates the “New” Mexican Cuisine
For Pati Jinich, there was a right way and a wrong way to make authentic Mexican cuisine. That was until she journeyed across the U.S.-Mexico borderlands. From cowboy candy to green spaghetti, she joins us to share the foods and lessons she learned from both sides of the border. Plus, Milk Street Radio producer Sarah Clapp visits the 2026 James Beard Chef and Restaurant Awards and meets t
Twinkies Gone Wild: Claire Saffitz Decodes Cheetos, Hot Pockets, Gushers and Oreos
This week, we’re revisiting one of our all-time favorite episodes—our 2020 interview with Claire Saffitz, in which she describes the trials and tribulations of creating famous snack foods on the Bon Appétit YouTube series “Gourmet Makes.” Plus, we talk to Ed Currie, the creator of one of the world's hottest pepper: the Carolina Reaper; we make Greek-style braised chickpeas; and Alex Aïnou
I Catered Napoleon's Wedding: Carême, the First Celebrity Chef
He cooked for the czar of Russia and the Rothschilds, and even made Napoleon Bonaparte's wedding cake. He invented the chef’s hat and published the first recipes for soufflé and meringue, but you’ve probably never heard his name. This week, it’s the story of the world’s first celebrity chef: Marie-Antoine Carême. Plus, we’re joined by one of today’s best chefs, Enrique Olvera; Kenji López
Best-Of Calls: Wax Peppers, Carrot Tops, and Wild Leeks
For this week's bonus, we have an all-calls special! We look back on our favorite plant-based calls, including how to cook with carrot tops, how to master eggplant, and how to make kids—or anyone—fall in love with vegetables.Photo credit: Nina LuongListen to Milk Street Radio on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
Crazy Love at 86: Bake-Off's Prue Leith Celebrates Being Old
Former "Great British Bake Off" judge Prue Leith talks about finding the love of her life at 70, a jazz musician’s review that put her restaurant on the map, and recounts one of her most viral moments: "Tell us about your beaver." Plus, Kimmie Mcintosh honors Filipino history and flavors at her pop-up bakery, Milkfish Bakeshop; and Alex Aïnouz has a life-changing meal at his local bistro.
The Lost Kitchen: Erin French Has 20,000 Restaurant Reservations in Freedom, Maine
This week, we're revisiting one of our all-time favorite episodes–it's our 2018 interview with Erin French. Following a tumultuous year, Erin French returned to her hometown of Freedom, Maine to open what is now one of the most exclusive restaurants in America, where the ingredients can be found in the garden, the waitlist is in the tens of thousands, and the menu is always a surprise. Pl
Magnolia Ice Cream? Yes! Plus Candied Acorns and Spruce Bark Cookies
When Justin Davies cuts into a piece of wood, he wonders what it tastes like. Today, he shares his adventures in crafting desserts out of trees, from the bark infusion that made his tongue go numb to the ice cream concocted from an infamously smelly tree. Plus, Lidia Bastianich returns to answer your questions on pasta and pesto; we eat through the backroads of Vietnam with chef Anaïs Ca
The Shocking Truth About Food Safety: Extended Cut
In this special episode, we’re sharing an extended cut of our interview with food safety experts Ben Chapman and Don Schaffner. They give their best tips for avoiding foodborne illnesses, including the safest way to cool down food, the hidden dangers of potato salad, and the foods they refuse to order from restaurants.Photo credit: Laura OhlmanListen to Milk Street Radio on: Apple Podcast
Death in the Kitchen: The Shocking Truth About Food Safety
This week, we take a look at the hazards lurking in our kitchens. Food safety experts Ben Chapman and Don Schaffner give their best tips for avoiding foodborne illnesses, including their protocol for cooking raw meat, the diseases hiding in your salt, how to actually clean a sponge, and the foods they refuse to order from restaurants. Plus, we take a burger road trip with George Motz; Gen
Best-Of Calls: Roosters, Alligators, and Leaf Lard
For this week's bonus, we have an all-calls special! We look back on the ingredients that have stumped you most—rooster, alligator, squid ink, even sparrows.Listen to Milk Street Radio on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
100 Years of Food Writing at the New Yorker: M.F.K. Fisher, Calvin Trillin and A.J. Lieblin
Adam Gopnik takes us on a tour of great food writing from the New Yorker in celebration of the magazine's centennial. We hear A.J. Liebling’s tip for finding a good restaurant in Paris, M.F.K. Fisher’s fantasy about potato chips and Calvin Trillin’s obsession over constructing the perfect bagel. Plus, Matt Goulding shares why paella is a hotbed of controversy; we explain why a cold oven i
The Secret History of Erewhon: Extended Cut
In this special episode, we’re sharing an extended cut of our interview with Kerry Howley about the surprising history of L.A.’s favorite food store, Erewhon.
Gonzo Food Trends: Sperm Gummies, Colostrum Soda and Spray-Can Beef Tallow
Andrea Hernández, founder of Snaxshot, is back to share her 2026 grocery store predictions—complete with holy water and sour pineapple sperm worms. Plus, reporter Kerry Howley reveals the surprising history of Erewhon, L.A.’s favorite food store; A Way With Words gets metaphorical about food and our bodies; and Stella Parks returns to answer your baking questions.Listen to Milk Street Rad
Summer Calls Special! Sun Pickles, Steak and Strawberry Ice Cream
For this week's bonus, we have an all-calls special! We look back on some of your best calls all about summer eating. Chris and Sara Moulton answer your garden questions, from mint varieties to sun pickles; they offer a few ideas for hot weather desserts (can cake frosting survive without air conditioning?!); and Meathead steps in for a grilling question session.Listen to Milk Street Radi
Summer Lollapalooza! Meathead Q&A, BBQ Road Trip and Grilling Pizza
We’re covering everything you've ever wanted to know about grilling and barbecue. First up, a road trip with Daniel Vaughn, barbecue editor at Texas Monthly. We taste whole-hog barbecue in Greenville, coffee-rubbed brisket in Nacogdoches and cow-eye tacos in Brownsville. Then, Meathead joins Chris on the phone lines for your toughest cookout questions; Kenji López-Alt makes the case for h
BraveTart: Stella Parks Reimagines America's Favorite Sweets
This week, we're revisiting one of our all-time favorite episodes–it's our 2018 interview with Stella Parks about the secret history of chocolate chip cookies and how she reverse engineers everything from Oreos to McDonald’s Apple Pies. Plus, we learn about barbecue around the world, from boodog to hāngi; Dan Pashman visits LA's Cambodian donut shops; and we make Austrian Plum Cake.Get ou
Unreasonable Hospitality: Inside the World's Best Restaurant
Will Guidara transformed Eleven Madison Park from a struggling two-star brasserie to the number one restaurant in the world. His secret? Unreasonable hospitality. From DIY beaches in the dining room to sledding in Central Park, Will shares stories—some of which inspired scenes on FX's The Bear—about his climb to the top. Plus, Luke Fortney examines restaurant gap relationships; and Emily
Milk Street At The Movies! Horror Food Styling, Vegetable Sound Effects and Film Noir Cocktails
We’re rewinding a few of our favorite movie magic interviews. Eddie Muller, host of TCM’s Noir Alley, breaks down some of film noir’s most memorable quotes and cocktails; horror movie food stylist Janice Poon makes vampire meat and edible amniotic fluid; and foley artist Marko Costanzo creates sound effects out of coconuts, cornstarch and lettuce.Listen to Milk Street Radio on: Apple Podc
Who's Your Salsa Daddy?
This week, we travel to Mexico. Rick Martínez shares the salsa that changed his life; Aarón Sánchez answers your Mexican cooking questions; we uncover the secret history of avocados; and Paco de Santiago takes us on a food tour of Mexico City. (Originally aired June 27, 2025.) Listen to Milk Street Radio on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
Desperately Seeking Garifuna! The Amazing History, Food and Language of the Garifuna People
For this week's special rewind, Isha Sumner talks the history and cuisine of the Garifuna people. Plus, Ruth Rogers reflects on 30 years of The River Café; wine expert Stephen Meuse shares his favorite bubbles of summer; and we make Spaghetti al Limone.Get the recipe for Spaghetti al Limone here.Listen to Milk Street Radio on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
July 4th Special! Grilling Call-Ins, Hot Dog Contests, and Cherry Pie
This week, we journey through 250 years of American cuisine. Author Jason Fagone digs into the history of competitive eating, from the man who transformed the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, to the spectacle that was the Glutton Bowl. Plus, reporter Anna Van Dine meets the Whitcomb’s Rangers: Revolutionary War re-enactors who are committed to eating like it’s 1776; Adam Gopnik cro
4th of July Bonus! A Pie for Every State, Grilling with Meathead, The History of Oscar Mayer
As we finish preparing our July 4th special coming out this Friday, we’re remembering a few of our favorite Independence Day interviews. Stacey Mei Yan Fong bakes an elaborate pie for each of the 50 states (Las Vegas buffet pie, anyone?); historian Bruce Kraig recounts the history of the hot dog; and Meathead shares some of his secret grilling tips and techniques.Listen to Milk Street Rad
L.A.'s Food Truck King: Up Close and Personal with Roy Choi
In 2008, Roy Choi was fired from his big restaurant job and ready to give up—then he started Kogi. He joins us today to discuss the making of his now-legendary food truck, how he taught Jon Favreau to look like a cook, and why there's poetry in lowriding around L.A. Plus, we hunt for clams, eels and anchovies with sea forager Kirk Lombard; and Chris and Sara Moulton take your calls, expla
Adam Conover Ruins Detox Diets, Bacon and Avocados
For this week's special rewind, Adam Conover, host of the truTV series “Adam Ruins Everything,” challenges the myth of killer Halloween candy, bogus detox diets and the rise of bacon. Plus, David Burtka transforms parties into events; we throw together an amazing Andalusian Tomato and Bread Soup; and Adam Gopnik stumbles across the perfect meal on vacation in Greece.Listen to Milk Street
Ice Cream Flavors Go Wild! Meet The New Queen of Ice Cream
Lokelani Alabanza has created over 300 wildly inventive ice cream flavors. She shares the triumphs (strawberry pretzel salad), the disasters (barbecue) and the flavors she still hopes to bring to life (…crystal store?!). Plus, Mindy Merrell and R.B. Quinn share how country and bluegrass music stars contributed to the rise of self-rising flour; Will Coley travels to Palermo to sample pastr
Summer Rewind! How to Picnic, the Perfect Salad, and Adventures on the Great American Chili Highway
We’re looking back on a few of our summeriest stories. We meet the self-titled Salad Freak, Jess Damuck for tips on creating the perfect hot-weather meal; Gustavo Arellano takes us from New Mexico to Colorado on the Great American Chili Highway; and Dan Pashman refines the art of picnicking.Listen to Milk Street Radio on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
Harry Smith Eats The World: Adventures of an Intrepid Reporter
This week, beloved television reporter Harry Smith takes us behind the scenes at The Early Show and around the world. He recalls his most memorable meals, from Haiti to Iraq to the Netherlands, and what a he’s learned from a lifetime of travel. Plus, Leela Punyaratabandhu shares the flavors of the Southeast Asian grill; Grant Barrett and Martha Barnette of “A Way with Words” search the wo
Wine Label Revolution: Goodbye Chateau, Hello Dancing Frog!
For this week's special rewind, we ask: Should you judge a wine by its label? Andres O'Hara studies the influence of wine label design; Alexander Smalls shares how the Afro-Asian diaspora changed the world of cooking; we settle the eternal debate: corks or screwcaps?; and we prepare a pasta with broccoli sauce.
Refrigerator Revolution: The Surprising Art of Keeping Cool!
This week, it's all about food inventions and innovations. Nicola Twilley reveals the history of refrigeration, from ingenious fridge designs to Rwanda’s pioneering “coldscape.” Plus, meat scientist Chris Calkins invents new cuts of steaks, and Dan Pashman wonders if the food tech takeover is actually a bust. Finally, we share a recipe for the pope’s carbonara. (Originally aired August 23
A Sommelier's Restaurant Confidential: Extended Cut
In this special episode, we’re sharing an extended cut of our interview with Hannah Selinger about her tell-all memoir, Cellar Rat. She shares her best somm secrets and favorite stories—like what happened when she wore a Yankees cap to her restaurant job in Boston.Listen to Milk Street Radio on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
Cellar Rat: A Sommelier's Restaurant Confidential
Former restaurant server and sommelier Hannah Selinger shares stories from her tell-all memoir, Cellar Rat, featuring run-ins with critics, strategies for spotting bad tippers, what she considers the stuffiest restaurant in New York, and how she thinks the industry may one day reform. Plus, Özlem Warren gives us the true taste of Istanbul and Kim Severson explains why America is breaking
Samin Nosrat Throwback: The Salt Fat Acid Heat Interview
For this week's special episode, we're replaying our 2017 interview with Samin Nosrat about her now-classic cookbook, Salt Fat Acid Heat. Plus, Dan Pashman weighs in on burgers and we make skirt steak salad.Listen to Milk Street Radio on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
Betrayal, Revenge and Family Secrets: a Frozen Food "Succession"
This week, we share a story of revenge, betrayal and secrets … at a frozen vegetable empire. John Seabrook investigates why running “the biggest vegetable factory on Earth” led to generations of drama in his family, like a real-life version of the TV show “Succession.” Plus, Brendan Liew gives us a tour of Japan’s incredible convenience stores; Kenji López-Alt finds the best way to crack
José Andrés Speaks Out: Extended Cut
In this special episode, we’re releasing an extended cut of our interview with José Andrés. He shares stories and strong opinions about his favorite foods from Spain (migas! escabeche! churros!). Plus, José explains the magic of cooking in all its forms, from molecular gastronomy to simple home-cooked meals.
Mayo is Spanish! José Andrés Speaks Out
José Andrés is back to celebrate the food from his home country! He goes beyond paella and sangria to honor lesser-known Spanish foods like migas, wine-soaked bread and… mayonnaise. Plus, he shares stories from one of history's best restaurants, elBulli, and explains why you should never order churros at a restaurant. Also, Trevor Warmedahl makes cheese in Mongolia's Valley of the Yaks; a
I Need the Kimchi! Meet Maangchi, YouTube Kitchen Queen
Today, we look back at one of our favorite episodes with YouTube sensation Maangchi. She talks kimchi, sea squirt, and why French food doesn’t stand a chance. Plus, we learn how ancient Minoans cooked; Alex Aïnouz wonders if we should all have 3D printers in our kitchens; and we share our recipe for Savory Bread Pudding.Get the recipe for Savory Bread Pudding here.Listen to Milk Street Ra
Chowder, Frittata & Marriage: A Love Story
Itamar Srulovich and Sarit Packer, the married couple behind Honey & Co., are back! This time, they’re here to fix your frittatas, throw out your stocks, and even offer a few suggestions for your love life. Plus, we meet the villagers restoring Germany’s communal bakehouses; Adam Gopnik praises the most useful tool in the kitchen; and Sohla El-Waylly is here to answer your cooking que
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Quirky Food Hour! Vegetable Orchestra, Jell-O Art, Adult Baby Food [Corrected]
We're revisiting some of our wackiest, most whimsical stories. We explore the music of the Vienna Vegetable Orchestra, where flutes and drums are replaced by carrots and pumpkins; Samuel West uncovers a shameful history of food failures; and we head down to North Carolina for "O' Moldy Night": the jiggliest, wobbliest food competition around.[NOTE: We previously posted the episode but due
Behind the Scenes of “Top Chef” with Kristen Kish
We get real with “Top Chef” host Kristen Kish. She talks about her career, her show and what bugs her most about restaurant goers. Also on the show—we chat with Reya Hart about eating and traveling on tour with her father, Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart; Kim Severson explains why meat is on the rise again; we make Puff Pastry Khachapuri; and Chris Kimball and Sara Moulton answer listen
Stop Hating Processed Foods? The Case for Big Ag
This week, a food fight: authors Jan Dutkiewicz and Gabriel Rosenberg present their case for…embracing McDonalds and Burger King? Listen to their vision for a better industrial food system that looks nothing like the farm-to-table diets of Michael Pollen and Alice Waters. Plus, we tour the secret cookies of Italy with Domenica Marchetti; and Elazar Sontag and Lyndsay C. Green discuss the
Smuggling Baby Eels: The New Black Market
This week: suitcases full of contraband, a smuggler who writes poetry in jail and the chance to make thousands of dollars in a single night. Reporter Otis Gray brings us the story of America’s eel fishing boom, and what happened when it got out of hand. Plus, Kenji López-Alt discusses the surprising science of salting scrambled eggs, and we make kefta in a creamy tahini sauce. (Originally
Picky Eaters: Extended Cut
In this special episode, we’re sharing an extended cut of our interview with Helen Zoe Veit about how American children become picky eaters—and how to raise kids who aren’t. Listen to Milk Street Radio on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
Picky Eaters: Why America's Kids Stopped Loving New Foods
American children are some of the fussiest eaters in history, but it wasn’t always this way. In the 19th century, kids ate oysters and corned beef, and loved all things sour, smoky, and funky. Helen Zoe Veit shares how American children become picky eaters—and how to raise kids who aren’t. Plus, honey sommelier Marina Marchese guides Chris through a blind taste test (which includes the bi
Insider's Italy: Hidden Rome, Best Desserts and Lidia Bastianich Hotline
Lidia Bastianich joins Christopher Kimball to answer our listeners’ Italian cooking questions—from the ultimate recipe for ravioli to tips for avoiding soggy lasagne. Plus, The Great British Bake Off's Giuseppe Dell'Anno shares the joys of Italian baking, from cannoli cake to sfogliatelle; culinary guide Arianna Pasquini takes us on a tour of Rome's hidden food gems; and J.M. Hirsch revea
So, You Want to Open A Restaurant? Drew Nieporent Tells All
Drew Nieporent has opened more than 40 restaurants, including iconic New York institutions like Nobu and Tribeca Grill. Today, he shares the secrets behind a restaurant’s longevity, the pros and cons of partnering with Robert De Niro and why he’d love to open a Jewish deli. Plus, Kevin West reveals how to grow a garden you’ll actually eat, we learn about Italy’s greatest unknown cookbook,
The Greek Makeover: Diane Kochilas Freshens Up Greek Cooking
Today, we look back at one of our favorite episodes with cooking legend Diane Kochilas. She talks the real Greek yogurt, how to make great dishes with stale bread and the magical Greek island of Ikaria. Plus, we explore the art and nostalgia of Jell-O molds; Dan Pashman untangles the legal definition of a sandwich; and we present a fresh new take on Spaghetti Puttanesca. (Originally aired
The Fish Butcher: Fish Eye Ice Cream, Anyone?
Josh Niland is a master of his craft: whole fish cooking, bones and all. He joins us to talk about transforming fish into ice cream and chips, and the tricks he’s played on customers at his Sydney restaurant, Saint Peter. Plus, reporter Sean Cole meets the prison inmate preparing chili and dragon rolls; and Matt Goulding shares the best restaurants you’ve never heard of. Get this week’s r
Butterfly Buns, Barmbrack and Soda Bread: The Secrets of Irish Baking
We explore the whimsical world of Irish baking with Cherie Denham. Plus, Madison Avenue veteran Jeff Swystun shares the little-known history of food advertising; Alex Aïnouz is on a journey to make the world’s best roasted chicken; and we cook up Spinach and Ricotta Dumplings in Tomato Sauce. (Originally aired March 14, 2025.)Get this week’s recipe for Spinach and Ricotta Dumplings in Tom
Padma Lakshmi Does Standup: Extended Cut
Today, we’re sharing an extended cut of our interview with Padma Lakshmi. We discuss everything from her early years in India to her love for standup comedy. She reminisces about her time on an Italian variety show, which laid the foundation for a long and successful career as a cooking competition host. Plus, she reveals the secret to being a great judge on Top Chef.
Padma Lakshmi Does Standup
After 17 years hosting Top Chef, Padma Lakshmi was ready for something new. This week, she fills us in on her recent endeavors: a new book, an original culinary competition show and standup comedy. Plus, Elyse Inamine celebrates a cult-favorite mayonnaise, Kewpie; and Mariena Mercer Boarini, Master Mixologist for Wynn Resorts North America, shares why martinis are the cocktail of the year
Green Hamburgers and Pastrami Waffles: American Food in Paris
Reporter Rebecca Rosman takes us to one of France’s favorite grocery stores—Picard—where everything is frozen. Every spring they celebrate “America Week” with concoctions such as popcorn ice cream, doughnuts made of ground-up potatoes and marshmallows in places they don’t belong. Is this really what American cuisine looks like in the eyes of the French? Plus, Adam Savage of “MythBusters”
Obsessed with the Best: Extended Cut
In this special episode, we’re sharing an extended cut of our interview with Ella Quittner, author of Obsessed With the Best. We cover everything: her tests for the best chocolate chip cookies, what food science gets right (and wrong), the trendiest food of 2026, and the problem with meat that’s more like “baby food." Plus, Ella shares her tests for the flakiest biscuits, crispiest bacon,
The Cook Who Tested Everything: Ella Quittner is Obsessed with the Best
Ella Quittner has spent years meticulously testing recipes for the flakiest biscuits, crispiest bacon, perfectly poached eggs, most tender yellow cake, and more. This week, she joins us to share her findings and her new book, Obsessed with the Best. Plus Milk Street Radio Producer Mari Orozco brings us to Cake Picnic; Stella Parks is back to answer your baking questions; and we learn the
Catching the Codfather Part 1: Red Lobster
Today, we’re sharing a special episode from The Big Dig podcast from GBH News, Catching the Codfather. Carlos “The Codfather” Rafael dominates the most valuable fishing port in the United States, and no one is quite sure how he did it. But in 2015, when undercover federal agents offer to buy his business, Carlos opens his books.Listen to the series host Ian Coss talk with Christopher Kimb
Emeril Live! Up Close and Personal with Emeril Lagasse
This week, we’re looking at the pioneers of food television. Emeril Lagasse reflects on his unlikely start at the Food Network, how he’s different from his on-screen persona and why he just opened his first Portuguese restaurant. Plus, Michelle T. King tells the story of Fu Pei-mei, Taiwan’s first cooking TV star, our very own Sara Moulton (of Cooking Live fame) answers caller cooking que
The Codfather: Inside A $175 Million Fish Fraud
Carlos Rafael ran one of the biggest fishing operations in New England. He was successful. Almost too successful. Probably because his seafood empire was built through fraud. This week, reporter Ian Coss brings us to the story of The Codfather. Plus, Natasha Pickowicz invites everyone to hot pot, and Christopher Kimball and Sara Moulton answer your questions on Norwegian pancakes, Julia C
The Life and Death of Gourmet: Ruth Reichl Tells All
Something surprising happened earlier this month: Five intrepid journalists brought Gourmet magazine back from the dead after they discovered Condé Nast let its trademark lapse. This week, we revisit our episode from 2019 with Gourmet’s final editor-in-chief, Ruth Reichl. She shares stories about the magazine’s glory days, its final days, and the perks of being an editor in the golden age
The Science of Food: Steaks, Bugs and Expiration Dates
For a throwback, we’re looking back at one of our all-time favorite episodes—our science episode from 2020. We chat with flavor chemist Dr. Arielle Johnson about how to eat a tree, how insects use flavor molecules to communicate and the science of taste and smell. Plus, Meathead teaches us how to grill perfect steaks; J. Kenji López-Alt investigates food expiration dates; and we make a no
Moose and Cake Mix: Inside The Alaskan Diet
Photographer Riley Arthur reports on a New York City icon: the old-fashioned diner. She goes beyond the club sandwiches and coffee to reveal the mob meetings, FBI stings and dramatic family moments that happen within a diner’s walls. Then, author Julia O’Malley provides a true taste of Alaskan cuisine, where stolen peaches, fresh caught salmon and boxed chocolate cake all are served at th
The Mystery of Taste: Beyond Sweet, Sour, Salty & Bitter
Are humans the only species that loves sour? Does everyone taste bitter the same way? And could there be flavors we can’t even comprehend yet? Emily Kwong and Aaron Scott from NPR’s “Short Wave” join us to explore the amazing science of taste, from the mysteries of salt to why dolphins can’t taste sweet. Plus, chef Khánh-Ly Huynh shares Vietnamese street food from Paris; Adam Gopnik inves
Food Trends 2026 with Kim Severson of The New York Times
This week we ask: What will be the hottest food trend of 2026? Kim Severson returns with her predictions for the year ahead, where grandmothers, vinegar, and ASMR will reign supreme. We also get caught up on the latest in food lingo — "swangy" is the new flavor to watch out for. Plus, author Sho Spaeth gives us a lesson in homemade ramen and John T. Edge reckons with life, legacy and food
The World’s Most Difficult Fruits
Author Kate Lebo introduces us to the world of rare fruits that are hard to find, harvest, prepare or just plain love. Plus, we study the staples of Gabonese cooking with chef Anto Cocagne, we get a lesson in the language of bread from Grant Barrett and Martha Barnette, and we learn about the history of Hungarian Chicken Paprikash. (Originally aired January 6, 2023.)Listen to Milk Street
Best of 2025: World's Worst Restaurant Review, Talking Stomachs and Favorite Calls
It’s time to look back at some of our favorite moments from 2025. There are the interviews that shocked us — from brand new theories of stomach intelligence to Pete Well’s harshest restaurant review — as well as expert cooking tips shared by the likes of Samin Nosrat and Lidia Bastianich. Plus, we revisit a few unforgettable listener calls and Christopher Kimball and Adam Gopnik present t
Perfect French Toast with Kenji López-Alt & Deb Perelman
Today, we’re sharing a special episode from our friends at “The Recipe with Kenji and Deb.” Chris joined Kenji López-Alt and Deb Perelman to talk about their ideal recipe for French Toast. They banter about bread for longer than any podcast ever has (not fact checked) – and how each of them perfects this classic breakfast dish.Get the recipe for French Toasted, Perfected here.Listen to Mi
Belgian Waffles, Santa History and Baking Problems Solved!
This week, we visit Belgium for holiday baking and festivities with Regula Ysewijn. Plus, we learn about a Welsh tradition that happens on the darkest days of winter, our friends from “A Way with Words” teach us old holiday drinking songs, we make Czech-style kolaches (a sweet cheese- and jam-filled pastry), and Cheryl Day returns to take your baking calls.Get this week’s recipe for Kolac
My Dad, Famous Amos
Today, we're sharing an episode from our friends at Tough Cookie: The Wally ”Famous“ Amos Story.Meet Wally Amos. He founded the ubiquitous Famous Amos Chocolate Chip Cookies in 1975, turning the brand into an overnight sensation and himself into a pop-culture fixture in the 1970s and 1980s. But there’s a darker side to Wally’s seemingly sweet story. One filled with five marriages to six w
Holiday Bonanza! Cookie Q&A and A Very Dickens Christmas
We answer your calls with Vaughn Vreeland (of New York Times Cookie Week fame) to help you bake the best cookies of the season; historian Pen Vogler breaks down classic Christmas dishes featured in Charles Dickens’ stories, from turkey to plum pudding; author Kat Lieu shares her recipe for Old-Fashioned Cantonese Shortbread; and reporter Mackenzie Martin shares the true story of a Wiscons
Sex, Murder and Chocolate
Author Aleksandra Crapanzano uncovers the rich history of chocolate—from black markets to murder in the church, people have stopped at nothing to procure this luxurious ingredient. Plus, record producer David Katznelson plays us some drinking songs; Alex Aïnouz masters the art of stock; and we whip up a Rice Pudding with Caramel Cream and Almond Praline.Get our recipe for Rice Pudding wit
10 Year Throwback: Mad French Food Scientist Alex Aïnouz Cooks Up YouTube
Milk Street's 10th anniversary is right around the corner! To celebrate, we're revisiting our favorite moments, starting with this week’s episode featuring the very first appearance of regular contributor Alex Aïnouz. On YouTube, Alex is known for his mad scientist experiments, from his million-layer puff pastry to his quest for the perfect French omelet. Also in this episode—we hear abou
Al Roker: Turkey Dreams and 30 Rock Lunches
Al Roker is back on Milk Street with family recipes and television stories to share. He recalls celebrity-filled lunches at the NBC commissary and the holiday meal he dreamt of while recovering from surgery. Plus, Ben Mims reveals the secret history of cookies; Grant Barrett and Martha Barnette of “A Way With Words” express holiday gratitude with food-themed compliments; and we prepare Ca
Thanksgiving Throwback (2019): Pumpkin Pie Secrets and Vivian Howard’s Spoon Bread
Happy Thanksgiving! Join us for a star-studded trip down memory lane with our Thanksgiving episode from 2019! Stella Parks reveals pumpkin pie secrets and serves up a fresh twist on à la mode; Vivian Howard invites us to her kitchen for North Carolina turkey and sides; Alice Waters, Erin French, Joanne Chang, Reem Kassis and other chefs, authors and friends recount their most harrowing Th
2025 Thanksgiving Show! Q&A, Uncommon Pies and José Andrés's Turkey Paella
How do you carve a turkey without losing the crispy skin? What kind of pie should you make if you’re sick of apple? And what’s the world’s easiest pie crust? This week, chefs Jet Tila and Dominique Ansel join Chris Kimball to answer your Thanksgiving cooking questions. Plus chef Jesse Griffiths goes hunting for wild turkeys; José Andrés, Melissa Clark, Joe Yonan and Monti Carlo reveal why
Thanksgiving Throwback (2017): From Calcutta to Kenji's Make-Ahead Mashed
We're putting the finishing touches on our 2025 Thanksgiving special, but in the meantime we have a special treat: We're re-releasing our first-ever Thanksgiving episode from 2017! Reporter Sandip Roy desperately seeks turkey in Calcutta; Kenji López-Alt reveals his secrets to make-ahead mashed potatoes; Dan Pashman spins the wheel of Thanksgiving anxiety; we find out from Dr. Aaron Carro
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