A Taste of History
A Taste of History is a cooking series that explores America's culinary beginnings from the Birthplace of American Cuisine. This innovative series brings America's history to life and makes it vibrant as we step back in time and get to know the founders of our country through the food they ate and the recipes they prepared. Chef Walter Staib, an Emmy Award-winning, internationally known chef with over four decades of experience, is a master of open hearth cookery. He demonstrates a true mastery in the preparation of sophisticated 18th century cuisine, sure to inspire home-cooks.
- 2008-2024
- 14 seasons
- Janson Media
- Documentary
A Taste of History is a cooking series that explores America's culinary beginnings from the Birthplace of American Cuisine. This innovative series brings America's history to life and makes it vibrant as we step back in time and get to know the founders of our country through the food they ate and the recipes they prepared. Chef Walter Staib, an Emmy Award-winning, internationally known chef with over four decades of experience, is a master of open hearth cookery. He demonstrates a true mastery in the preparation of sophisticated 18th century cuisine, sure to inspire home-cooks.
Season 9 Episode Guide
13 Episodes 2018
Episode 1
Remember Paoli!
Thu, May 31, 2018 24 mins
Chef Walter Staib uncovers the life of General "Mad Anthony" Wayne and the Battle of Paoli - an event that inspired America's first battle cry, "Remember Paoli!" Recipes include braised short ribs, Pennsylvania dutch gratin, and more.
Episode 2
Settling Jamestown
Thu, Jun 7, 2018 24 mins
The struggle and triumph of the first permanent English settlement in North America is explored. In honor of the natives and colonists of Jamestown, Virginia, Chef Staib prepares stuffed roasted chicken with wild rice and cornbread.
Episode 3
Jamaica's Spectacular South Coast
Thu, Jun 14, 2018 24 mins
Chef Staib travels along the south coast of Jamaica and delights in adventure off the beaten track, relishing a local's delicious pepper shrimp dish and a fisherman's hangout in the middle of the sea.
Episode 4
The Bounty of Penn's Pennsylvania
Thu, Jun 21, 2018 24 mins
William Penn was amazed to find vast numbers of wild game in the forests of the New World. Chef Walter Staib travels to Pennsbury Manor and prepares recipes such as elk stew that would have been enjoyed by the Pennsylvania colonists including Penn himself.
Episode 5
A Tribute to Mrs. Goodfellow
Thu, Jun 28, 2018 24 mins
Mrs. Goodfellow was a successful baker and teacher who opened the first finishing school in America. Chef Walter Staib and Pastry Chef Diana recreate some of her most notable creations, including lemon meringue pie and much more.
Episode 6
Recipes in the Rainforest
Thu, Jul 5, 2018 24 mins
The natural beauty and unique foods of St. Lucia are explored. Chef Walter Staib learns some native creole language and helps prepare unique and traditional St. Lucian fare in the tropical forest of this island nation.
Episode 7
Pennsbury: The Working Estate
Thu, Jul 12, 2018 24 mins
Grand estates required an enormous amount of effort to maintain during the early days of America. Chef Staib discovers what it took at the manor of Pennsylvania's founder, William Penn. Recipes include catfish dumplings and cream of persimmon.
Episode 8
The Monticello Wine Experiment
Thu, Jul 19, 2018 24 mins
Thomas Jefferson's impact on the world of wine is explored in Chef Staib's triumphant return to Monticello. Recipes include lavender-marinated duck, oysters with champagne, and more.
Episode 9
Flavors of the Pinoleros
Thu, Jul 26, 2018 24 mins
Chef Walter Staib travels to the Land of Lakes and Volcanoes: Nicaragua. From touring antique markets to preparing traditional favorites like vigarón and baho, Staib gives an intimate look into the history and flavors of the Nicaraguans.
Episode 10
Handmade: Crafts of the 18th Century
Thu, Aug 2, 2018 24 mins
Chef Walter Staib explores the painstaking process of colonial craftsmanship. Along with observing book making and looming, Staib exhibits his own craft with recipes such as braised lamb shank and stuffed kohlrabi.
Episode 11
Rochambeau's Revolutionary Road
Thu, Aug 9, 2018 24 mins
In 1781, General Rochambeau's French forces marched hundreds of miles with the Continental Army to help secure American independence. Chef Walter Staib prepares rustic fare that would have been served on this historic journey.
Episode 12
A Sentimental Journey Through Nicaragua
Thu, Aug 16, 2018 25 mins
Joined by his son, Chef Walter Staib travels to his late-wife's homeland in this touching tribute. Nicaragua's natural beauty, unique culture, and amazing cuisine are celebrated.
Episode 13
Best of Jamaica
Thu, Aug 23, 2018 24 mins
The natural beauty and exotic spices of Jamaica cannot be captured in a single visit. Chef Walter Staib has been cooking in this amazing Caribe nation for decades, both on and off camera. This collection highlights both famous and hidden sides of Jamaica.