Episode Archives

Elevating Nixtamalization & Revolutionizing Tacos at NixtaTaqueria

Today, I’m talking to Chef Edgar Rico. He’s the creative force behind the magic at Nixta Taqueria, located in Austin, Texas. In 2022, Rico was bestowed with the prestigious James Beard Award Best Emerging Chef. The same year, he also made the Time Magazine list of 100 Most Influential People. You’ll hear about his culinary…

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Rick Lopez on Mexican Heritage at La Condesa

Today, I’m talking to Chef Rick Lopez about Mexican cuisine. The recent James Beard Award nominee is the creative force behind La Condesa in Austin, Texas. He grew up in San Antonio and, through his food, honors the traditions of his Mexican heritage.  You’ll hear about his early start in the kitchen as he traces…

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A Taste of Life with Chef Jacques Pépin

Today, I’m talking to Chef Jacques Pépin, a veritable culinary superstar whose career spans over seven decades. From his early days working in his family’s restaurant in France, his love for cooking took him across the globe. His resume includes everything from serving as a presidential chef to receiving the Legion of Honor, France’s highest…

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Behind the Scenes with Chef Jeff McInnis in Miami

Today, I’m thrilled to chat with Chef Jeff McInnis, the culinary genius behind Miami’s renowned restaurants such as Yardbird, Root & Bone, and Stiltsville Fish Bar. Discover how Chef McInnis, a James Beard Award nominee, infuses his southern heritage into every dish, creating an extraordinary fusion that captivates the palate. Join us as he shares…

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From Farm to Plate: Chef Derek Wagner’s Sustainable Journey

Today, I’m talking to Chef Derek Wagner, owner of Nicks  On Broadway in Providence, Rhode Island. He’s known for his philosophy of nose to tail cooking, his creative ability to transform whole animals into delicious, inspired dishes that ignite the taste buds while also reducing food waste. You’ll hear about his childhood memories, his unique…

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Furikake: Unveiling Unique Flavors & Uses

Furikake seasoning is a savory Japanese condiment used to add flavor to rice, fish, and vegetables. The name furikake means “to sprinkle,” and it is typically made from a blend of ingredients that may include dried nori (seaweed), toasted sesame seeds, dried fish or other protein, dried egg, dried herbs, salt, sugar, soy sauce, and…

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Redefining Caribbean Dining at Canje and Shaping the Next Generation of Culinary Leaders

Welcome to another captivating episode of the “Flavors Unknown” podcast! In this episode, we sit down with the talented Chef and Pastry Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph from Austin, Texas, as he shares his remarkable journey from his childhood in Guyana to running the celebrated restaurant Emmer & Rye with his business partner, Chef Kevin Fink. Delve…

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Pandan Essentials: Syrups & Savory Recipes

Pandan, also known as screwpine, is a herbaceous tropical plant that grows abundantly in Southeast Asia. It is famous for its long, slender, spiky, and upright bright green leaves that are similar to the palm tree. In Chinese, it is called “fragrant plant” because of its unique, sweet aroma. Pandan leaves are widely used in…

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The Ingredients of Success: Chef Rob Rubba’s Unique Approach

In today’s episode, we sit down with Chef Rob Rubba, the creative force behind the acclaimed restaurant Oyster Oyster in Washington, DC, and recent recipient of a James Beard Award. We discuss his South Jersey upbringing, his experiences working under renowned chefs like Gordon Ramsay and Guy Savoy, his time spent abroad, the opening of…

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Gochugaru: Elevate Your Cooking with This Secret Ingredient

Gochugaru is a type of Korean chili powder made from dried red chili peppers. It has a vibrant red color and a slightly sweet and smoky flavor, with a medium level of spiciness. Gochugaru is a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine and is used to add heat and depth of flavor to many dishes, including…

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