A Taste of History
Chef Walter Staib travels to historic locations in the U.S. and beyond to trace favorite foods to their colonial roots. He cooks in open hearth kitchens using the tools of the era, including Dutch ovens, spider pots, fire pokers and hot coals.
- 2008-2024
- 14 seasons
- Janson Media
- Documentary
Chef Walter Staib travels to historic locations in the U.S. and beyond to trace favorite foods to their colonial roots. He cooks in open hearth kitchens using the tools of the era, including Dutch ovens, spider pots, fire pokers and hot coals.
Season 7 Episode Guide
13 Episodes 2016
Episode 1
Charles Thomson's Great Seal of the United States
Wed, May 11, 2016 24 mins
Chef Walter Staib pays tribute to Charles Thomson, designer of America's Great Seal. Chef Staib dedicates this meal to Thomson with: Crawfish Bisque and Wether Stew. Bee Sting Cake, infused with honey from this founding father's estate, is baked in an 18th century beehive oven and completes the meal.
Episode 2
George Washington in Barbados
Wed, May 18, 2016 24 mins
It's A Taste of History when Chef Walter Staib tells the amazing story of young George Washington's only trip abroad. From the luxurious setting of Sandals Barbados in St. Lawrence Gap, learn all about the unique connection between Barbados and the United States and enjoy some specialties of Barbados: Bajan Fish Cakes, Flying Fish and Cou-cou prepared and explained by Sandals' finest Chefs.
Episode 3
Dr. Benjamin Rush: Father of American Psychiatry
Wed, May 25, 2016 24 mins
Chef Walter Staib presents the story of Dr. Benjamin Rush, one of the most influential figures in the history of American medicine. To honor Dr. Rush, Chef Staib prepares Seafood Vol-au-Vent and a Leek and Crimini Mushroom Ragu, completing the meal with an Apple Tart.
Episode 4
The Water of Life: Cognac
Wed, Jun 1, 2016 23 mins
Chef Staib explores the history of cognac and prepares Paupiette de Truite (Trout Roulade) and Chocolate Sabayon with Cognac.
Episode 5
Boston's Famous Parker House
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 24 mins
The Omni Parker House has a rich history in both cuisine and politics. We have teamed their acclaimed Chefs with Walter to showcase the very best of Boston fare with the famous Parker House Rolls and the Boston Cream Pie.
Episode 6
The Moravians of Bethlehem
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 24 mins
Walter showcases the history of the Moravians and how the population grew from twenty people on 500 acres along the Lehigh River, to a thriving community whose influence is still felt today.
Episode 7
James K. Polk: The Dark Horse President
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 24 mins
Walter demystifies the "Dark Horse, " James K. Polk, known as "the most important President that you know the least about." In Polk's kitchen, Chef Staib showcases the farm-to-table Southern fare that was dear to Polk's heart.
Episode 8
George Washington's Tent
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 24 mins
George Washington's tent, his mobile headquarters, survived both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Walter serves up Army cuisines with the rustic Pot-au-Feu to Whiskey Cake, Washington's indulgence.
Episode 9
When America Spoke French
Wed, Jul 6, 2016 23 mins
During the 18th century Philadelphia's French population and influence swelled. The history of ice cream making is explored.
Episode 10
Orchid, Herbs, and Rum in Jamaica
Wed, Jul 13, 2016 24 mins
The history of Jamaica is examined in this fascinating episode of A Taste of History. Chef Staib examines the 1800s orchid craze, reveals a present-day Maroon tribal leader, and uncovers the art of making rum. Rum is a staple in the preparation of ceviche and a complement to one of the featured recipes: Brown Stew Pork. From the modern luxury of Sandals Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios to villages where time has stopped, Chef Walter Staib is your guide through this diverse and beautiful island.
Episode 11
Eliza Powel's Sinful Feast
Wed, Jul 20, 2016 24 mins
The premiere hostess of the 18th century prepared decadent feasts that inspired John Adams to describe dinner as "sinful." Chef Staib recreates her "Sinful Feast, " preparing it in her historic Philadelphia home.
Episode 12
Pittsburgh: From Frontier to Fortune
Wed, Jul 27, 2016 24 mins
The cuisine and history of Pittsburgh and the Omni William Penn Hotel. This historic hotel opened in 1916 to heads of state and movie stars. Omni Hotels has restored this iconic building with a multi-million dollar renovation.
Episode 13
From Bordeaux to Jefferson's Cellars
Wed, Aug 3, 2016 22 mins
Specialties of the region are prepared by Chefs Frederick and Staib, highlighting the influence of the sea and the vineyard. A wine tasting menu is prepared featuring sea scallops, duck breast, and pears poached in regional wines.