Multi-tasking is a regular mode of operation for people these days and often gets a bad rap. Why do one thing when you can do two things at once? Whether I grade papers with a movie on or read a magazine while I exercise, I follow this trend. On my previous 18-mile drive to work, I discovered that multi-tasking works when driving if it involves listening. I became interested in podcasts after listening to books on tape, finishing them and then not always making it to the library. Podcasts provided the sought-after enlightenment, entertainment, and mindless diversion. My foray into podcasts started with pop culture and media-related topics but has spread into the food world. I am regularly entertained by learning about the lives of chefs, cooking ideas, the food industry and restaurants.
Below are five food-related podcasts that keep me listening:
1. Pizza City with Steve Dolinsky
Steve Dolinsky might make his home in Chicago, but in his bi-weekly podcast, he explores pizza across the United States and as far away as Amsterdam. Each episode gets to the heart of what that particular pizzaiolo, baker, and artisan considers to make a great pizza. It is especially fun to listen when episodes explore a Chicago institution and then be able to pay a visit. I did this with Bob’s Pizza and Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company and found validity to what I heard on the podcast. Had I listened in time, I would have visited Penne Pazze in Nashville when I was there this past summer. I am sure after just a few episodes you’ll be thinking about your “optimal bite ratio” while eating pizza.
2. Be My Guest with Ina Garten
Ina Garten talks just like she writes, and she cooks with an easy going and charming style. As the title implies, Ina has a guest for each episode. She welcomes them with a dish or drink she knows they like and talks through making it. Presented with such clarity, a listener could follow along successfully without reading the recipe. I look forward to cherry season, when I will make the Cherry Clafouti Ina made for Ann Patchett in reference to her book Tom Lake, which takes place on a cherry orchard.
Another episode grabbed my attention when I desired fresh-baked cookies. Ina welcomed Willie Geist with Salted Chocolate Chunk Cookies that I went home and made. After embracing guests with food, Ina engages in active conversations about their food and cooking upbringing and life, in general. Julia Louis-Dreyfuss, Laura Linney, and Stephen Colbert and his wife have all been featured. Easy access to the recipes comes with each episode.
3. The Dining Table with David Manilow
David Manilow, Chicagoan and creator of Chicago Public Television’s, “Check, Please” hosts this weekly podcast. While I don’t plan to open a restaurant, I enjoy getting “inside” information on Chicago’s restaurant scene, the restaurant and hospitality industry, and Chicago chefs. I know about Hewn bakery in Evanston, Libertyville, and Wilmette, but after an episode, I felt compelled to check out what started as an underground bread club.
On each episode, I look forward to hearing the guest’s answer to “What’s your favorite restaurant in Chicago?” In his talk with Adorn chef Richie Farina, Jimmy’s Pizza was mentioned. With its proximity to The Chopping Block, I had to see the “creative toppings” and embrace getting a “slice of that and a slice of that” for myself. I was not disappointed. The “Where Dave Ate” segments shared during each month’s first episode, also force planning my next meal out.
4. Andrew Talks to Chefs
Mention of this podcast in a magazine article sparked my interest. Compared to the previously mentioned, it ventures deeper into the world of chefs and restaurants located across the United States. The inspiring stories of how chefs found success and inspiration for their endeavors keeps me listening. Every so often, I learn of a restaurant in another city that I would like to visit. For example, Bastia, in Philadelphia and Miss Ada’s Restaurant in Brooklyn are on my list when I visit family in those cities.
The episode list is extensive and includes Chicago notables like Rick Bayless and Esmé partners Jenner Tomaska and Katrina Bravo and an extensive list of others. If you have a favorite chef or a favorite restaurant, you might just seek out a specific episode.
5. Food Network Obsessed
If you watch the Food Network, you’re likely familiar with guests interviewed by Jaymee Sire. However even if you don’t, this podcast is a fun listen and urge you to check out a show. I don’t have regular access to Food Network, but I liked hearing background information on the creation and production of “The Kitchen.” When I did get to view it, I witnessed just what was explained on the podcast. I particularly like the “speed round” and “design your perfect food day” that conclude each episode. I find myself considering and asking friends and family speed round questions such as “Sweet or Savory?” and “What 3 ingredients can’t you live without?”
I hope the podcasts listed inspire your listening, eating, and cooking as they have mine. Multi-task with listening while you clean, do menial tasks, drive while watering your tastebuds, enlightening your mind, and nurturing your spirit.
If the virtual format works for you, but you want to build your cooking skills more actively consider, a virtual class or virtual cooking party. If you prefer in person, but less hands-on, let one of The Chopping Block chef’s cook for you at a Tasting Table Demo. Perhaps you want to partake in deep culinary learning like the chefs Andrew Friedman interviews, consider The Chopping Block’s Culinary Boot Camp. If Steve Dolinsky got you thinking about fermentation, hydration, and gluten specifications, get Hands-On Artisanal Breads Boot Camp on your calendar for March.
