PODCAST · arts
What the Food?
by Miles, Andy and Dom
Welcome to What the Food?—the podcast that dives into the weird, wild, and fascinating history of food, drinks, and dining cultures around the world. We’re Miles, Andy, and Dom—just three friends with a love for food and a knack for uncovering its untold stories. From surprising food origins to the moments that shaped how we eat, we uncover the strange, unexpected, and often hilarious history behind what ends up on our plates. Join us on our next culinary adventure through time!
Episodes
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The End: A History of Last Meals
OUR FINAL EPISODE IS HERE! And we're going out with a bang! In our final ever episode of What the Food?, we explore the strange, symbolic, and sometimes darkly funny world of famous last meals. From the elaborate feasts of Roman emperors to the fast-food cravings of modern serial killers, the…
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A History of Sushi (Part 2)
In the final part of this 2 part series, the boys continue their adventure uncovering the fascinating history of sushi! From the ban of outdoor food stalls in Japan, to Dom's awful pronunciations, all the way to the rise of the California Roll in the conveyor belt restaurants of America, this...
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A History of Sushi (Part 1)
In part 1 of this 2 part series, the boys travels back to the stinking banks of the Mekong River to uncover sushi's dirty little secret: it began as a way to preserve fish in fermented rice that was so foul, they threw all the rice away every time... Join us as we follow this acquired taste on…
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Shiver Me Tastebuds! A Pirate's Life for Food (Part 2)
We're docking our ship, resupplying, and then heading back out onto the seven seas in the second and final part of our series uncovering the mysteries of pirate food and drink! We've begun our epic voyage uncovering the hows and whys, as well as some of the disgusting food aboard a pirate ship......
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Shiver Me Tastebuds! A Pirate's Life for Food (Part 1)
Forget the lavish banquets and endless rum of Hollywood's depiction of pirates... In part 1 of this 2 part series, Andy, Dom, and Miles uncover the often disgusting, sometimes desperate, and surprisingly democratic world of pirate food and drink. From weevil-infested ship biscuits and…
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Wartime Tables & Tyrants' Tummies (Part 3)
It's the explosive finale of our series Wartime Tables & Tyrants' Tummies! In part 3, we brace ourselves for Benito Mussolini's infamous raw garlic salads, his surprising war on pasta, and his own rebellious stomach. Then, we journey to Imperial Japan for Hideki Tojo's extreme austerity and iron...
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Wartime Tables & Tyrants' Tummies (Part 2)
Ready for another helping of history's most horrifying hors d'oeuvres? In part 2, we brave Joseph Stalin's "Sinister Suppers", marathon vodka-drenched banquets where fear was the main course. Then, it's off to Franklin D. Roosevelt's White House for some truly crap snacks, proving that even the...
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Wartime Tables & Tyrants' Tummies (Part 1)
Welcome to Wartime Tables & Tyrants' Tummies, the series that lifts the lid on what WW2's bigwigs were really eating! In part 1, it's Churchill vs. Hitler: one fuelled by champagne, cigars, and colossal dinners; the other by... well, rabbit food, raging paranoia, and rumours of epic wind. We're...
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Eat Pray Obey: The Worst Cult Diets in History (Part 2)
Part 2 is here! In this week’s episode of What the Food?, we tuck back into history’s most deranged cult diets... We're talking Aum Shinrikyo and the Mormons! Join us as we rank the worst of the worst in a roundtable food fight no one asked for, and uncover why the road to salvation is often…
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Eat Pray Obey: The Worst Cult Diets in History (Part 1)
Ever fancied a spiritual journey that involves applesauce, powdered milk, and starvation so severe you hallucinate a raisin? In this week’s episode of What The Food, we tuck into history’s most deranged cult diets, from the jungle gruel of Jonestown, to Heaven’s Gate’s death-by-pudding, to the...
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New York’s Oyster Obsession
Once upon a time, New York was built on oysters, literally. From the Lenape shell heaps to 19th-century oyster saloons (and the dodgy brothels hiding behind them), oysters were everywhere. They fed the rich, the poor, and even fuelled a secret stop on the Underground Railroad. In this episode, we...
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The Crispy Legacy of Peking Duck
*We encountered a couple of audio issues while recording this episode. Before you stamp on your headphones or throw your phone or PC out the window, any glitchy sounds you hear are in our recording! Apologies!* Peking Duck isn’t just food, it’s a legend. From its humble origins as a street snack…
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Flavours of the Colosseum: Bread, Blood, and Power in Ancient Rome
Step into the roar of the Colosseum! 🏛️ This week’s podcast takes you on a sensory journey through ancient Rome, exploring what it was like to attend the gladiatorial games. From securing your Tessera to feasting on honey cakes and sizzling sausages, discover how food, spectacle, and power...
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Baguettes and Bicycles: Vietnam's Bánh Mì
What’s more than bread, pickles, and pork? A story of resilience, rebellion, and reinvention. In this episode, we trace the journey of the Bánh Mì. From its colonial roots in French-occupied Vietnam to its status as a global street food icon. We discover how Saigon’s street vendors transformed a...
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Feasts Before the Fall: The Grand Dining Experience on the Hindenburg
Step aboard the Hindenburg, where high-altitude dining was once an opulent affair with fine porcelain, crystal glasses, and multi-course feasts—even as disaster loomed... In this episode, we explore the luxurious, meticulously crafted meals served on the world's most famous airship, the…
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Bob Marley and the Ital Diet’s Cultural Journey
Step into the vibrant world of Ital living, where food isn’t just fuel, it’s a spiritual practice, a cultural statement, and an act of resistance! In this episode, we uncover the history of the Ital Diet, born from Rastafarian principles of purity, connection to nature, and rejection of Babylon’s...
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How French Cuisine Took Over the World
Season 3 is here, and we’re diving into how French cuisine became the gold standard of fine dining! In our new format, we uncover the rich and often outrageous history behind France’s culinary world dominance. From medieval feasts and royal decadence at Versailles to the invention of the Michelin...
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Luxury from the Deep: How Caviar Became a Status Symbol
Season 2 finale is here and it's time to pop the lid on the world of Caviar! This luxurious delicacy has graced the tables of tsars, aristocrats, and celebrity chefs alike—but how did it go from a humble fish roe to a symbol of opulence and indulgence? In this episode, we explore the fascinating...
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The Curious Legacy of the Scotch Egg
Time to crack open the mystery of the Scotch Egg! This iconic British snack has seen it all—from posh London department stores to wartime rations, and even a gourmet revival in the trendiest gastropubs. But where did it really come from, and how did it go from being a travel snack for the upper...
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Chop Suey and the Birth of American Chinese Cuisine
It’s time to stir things up with the saucy saga of Chop Suey! In this episode, we’re diving into the deliciously complicated history of the iconic dish that’s as much a part of American takeaways as it is Chinese cuisine. We kick things off by exploring the legendary origins of Chop Suey, from…
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Pop-Tarts and the Breakfast Revolution of Postwar America
It's time to unwrap the foiled sugary saga of Pop-Tarts! The iconic breakfast pastries that have toasted their way into the hearts of millions. From their crispy, frosted beginnings in the 1960s to their status as a pop culture phenomenon, we're exploring how Pop-Tarts became a toasted favourite....
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Sweet Deception: The Scandal That Shook the Wine World
In this episode, we're uncorking the story of the Austrian Wine Scandal of 1985—a vintage tale of deceit, drama, and diethylene glycol. Imagine the picturesque vineyards of Austria, where a few unscrupulous winemakers decided to give their wines an illicit boost with a sweet but toxic twist. Join...
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The Earl's Invention That Changed Lunchtime Forever
We’re unwrapping the story of a beloved culinary staple—the sandwich! This versatile delight has traveled through time, evolving from ancient creations to a global favorite. We’ll dive into its rich history, starting with Hillel the Elder’s Passover creation, then moving to medieval Europe’s...
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Plov and the Feasts of the Silk Road
In this episode we’re stirring up the rich, aromatic history of Plov, Uzbekistan's national dish! Plov isn’t just food; it’s a celebration, a symbol of community and hospitality that has been feeding hearts and souls for centuries. For Miles, he thinks it's all fake and this is one big April…
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Marmite: A British Obsession Loved and Hated
In this episode, we're diving knife-first into the polarizing pot of Marmite, the yeasty spread that splits opinions as sharply as Brexit, blue steak or having a poo at work. Love it or hate it, Marmite’s rich history and distinctive flavor make it a British icon worth exploring. From its…
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Caesar Salad's Journey from Tijuana to Global Fame
Welcome back! In this episode we're diving into the deliciously intriguing salad bowl of history, and talking Caesar Salad. Was it really invented by a Roman emperor, or is there a more tangy and surprising story behind it? Join us as we try and piece it all together. Prepare for the usual...
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Donuts and the Sweet Story of America's Favourite Treat
Join us and sink your teeth into the sweet, pillowy goodness of doughnuts! From ancient fried doughballs to modern-day gourmet wonders, we look at how a wartime comfort has evolved into a symbol of culinary creativity worldwide. This episodes takes some strange turns as we discuss the trenches of...
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Goulash: Hungary's National Dish with a Fiery Past
Join us this week at a bubbling smokey cauldron because we're stewing over the rich and hearty history of Goulash, Hungary's beloved dish that's more than just a stew—it's a story of resilience, culture, and culinary evolution. Originating from the rugged plains of Hungary, where cowherds…
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Dim Sum: Unveiling the Rituals of an Ancient Cantonese Tradition
We're unwrapping the delightful world of Dim Sum, the heart-touching tradition that's as much about togetherness as it is about taste. Journey with us from its beginnings along the ancient Silk Road, all the way to the bustling teahouses of modern-day Guangzhou and Hong Kong. In this episode we...
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SPAM: From Wartime Rations to Culinary Icon
In this episode, we're heading into the compressed, greasy world of SPAM - the iconic canned meat that's polarized dining tables since 1937. From its humble beginnings as a wartime staple to its status as a global culinary phenomenon, SPAM's journey is nothing short of astonishing. We'll slice…
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Turkish Delight: The Sweet Temptation That Led to Betrayal
In this episode we embark on a sweet journey to the heart of the Ottoman Empire to uncover the sticky secrets behind Turkish Delight! We delve into the sugary saga of this iconic confectionery, from its royal origins to its role in the famous Chronicles of Narnia, where Edmund couldn't resist its...
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Absinthe: The Green Fairy's Haunting Legacy
In this episode, we're venturing into the mystique-laden world of absinthe, the storied spirit known as the Green Fairy. Tracing its roots back to the 18th century, absinthe has bewitched artists and intellectuals with its complex character and rumoured hallucinogenic properties. From its birth…
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Ketchup's Journey from Ancient Fish Sauce to Modern Condiment
In this episode, we're squeezing out the thick and rich history of ketchup! From its unexpected beginnings as a fermented fish sauce in ancient China, to its transformation into the tomato-based staple on dinner tables around the world, ketchup has a surprisingly tangy past. Join us as we spread...
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Pancakes: A Timeless Journey Through Sweet and Savoury Traditions
In this syrup-soaked episode we're diving into the fluffy world of pancakes. From their humble beginnings as a Stone Age staple to becoming a breakfast favourite across the globe, pancakes have a surprisingly rich history. Join us as we flip through time to uncover how this simple mix of flour,...
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Cornish Pasty: A Miner's Comfort
And just like that, the What the Food? boys are back! To make this a momentous occasion, we're about to unravel the layers (pun absolutely intended) of a British staple. The Cornish Pasty. From its medieval origins to the latest pasty-related shenanigans, hold onto your hats - and your appetites,...
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Falafel: A Tale of Heritage and Transformation
In episode 25 of What the Food?, Andy & Miles navigate the contentious but fascinating story of every vegans favourite wrap filling - Falafel. When taking upon ourselves the noble task of uncovering foods origins, we sometimes stumble on stories that still to this day, have significant and...
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How Haggis Became Scotland's Most Famous and Misunderstood Dish
This week on What the Food? we head to the mythical Highlands of Scotland to find out why boiling loads of offal in a meat sack is considered a normal thing to do. Where did this seemingly barbaric dish come from? This episode has it all! Ancient Rome, French gastronomic influence, and even the...
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Barbecue: The Ancient Art of Cooking with Fire (Part 2)
Grab your AR15's and your burnt ends because part 2 is here! We return to the world of barbecue, this time heading to America to complete our barbecue story. Why is barbecue so popular in the US? Who pioneered this cooking method? And what different types are there? All is to be discovered in...
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Barbecue: The Ancient Art of Cooking with Fire (Part 1)
Oh boy, this is a big one. In episode 22 of What The Food?, the boys explore the origins of the world's favourite way of cooking meat; Barbecue. Join us as we explore the humble beginnings of slowly cooking meat over hot coals and discover how barbecue made its way to the USA - the undisputed…
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Nutella's Sweet and Gloopy Rise to Global Dominance
We're back and we are back with a large tub of the good stuff! In the latest episode of What The Food?, the boys explore the origins of the world's favourite chocolate spread: Nutella. From prized hazelnuts in the north of Italy to a naval blockade by Napoleon Bonaparte himself, join us as we…
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Tempura's Path from Portugal to Japanese Perfection
In the 20th episode of What The Food?, the boys take a trip to the land of the rising sun to explore the origins of Tempura. Tempura is a typical Japanese dish that you'll find in pretty much all Japanese restaurants you visit, and for good reason - it's delicious! Join us as we dive into a rich...
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Poutine: Canada's Comfort Food That Divides and Delights
In episode 19 of What The Food? the boys take an apologetic trip to the home of the moose to uncover the origins of their national dish: Poutine. Ever wondered how essentially cheese, chips and gravy became a national treasure that is known throughout the world as distinctly Canadian? Well, join…
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Pad Thai and Thailand's National Culinary Revolution
On the latest episode of What The Food?, the boys head to the land of smiles to take a look at the origins of Pad Thai. A dish that seemingly sprung into existence in the 20th century and whose origins involve political intrigue, a successful coup and WW2. Trust us when we say that you are not...
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Spotted Dick: The Curious Tale of an Old-Fashioned Pudding
Today the boys try to keep a straight face whilst discussing the origins of the quintessentially British pud - Spotted Dick. From investigating the etymology of the puds phallic inspired name to exploring the incredible life of the famous 19th-century chef Alexis Soyer, this episode has it all....
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Pork Pie: A Staple of British Picnics and Pub Lunches - ft WhatWillyCook
In this episode, Miles and Andy are joined by special guest WhatWillyCook as we explore the jelly-filled world of the Pork Pie. From pies etched into the tombs of pharaohs to fox hunters in Leicester carrying them in their pockets, join us as we discover the origins of the humble pork pie. If you...
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Casu Marzu: The Cheese That Crosses the Line
In episode 15 of What The Food?, the boys take a look at the world's most dangerous cheese: Casu Marzu. Originating in Sardinia, Casu Marzu involves a wheel of pecorino, thousands of fly larvae and a whole lot of grossness. Despite its "Risk to Human Health" warning awarded by the Guinness World...
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How the Croissant Became the Breakfast King
In this week's episode, we take on one of the most popular breakfast items worldwide - The Croissant! There is more than meets the eye with this buttery, flaky pastry. From the Ottoman Empire to the French revolution and all the way to Kanye West ordering his "damn croissant!", we cover it all....
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Stamppot: Dutch Comfort Food Rooted in Tradition
To honour Max Verstappen and his stunning last-lap victory for the F1 Championship, we're covering one of the most famous dishes to come out of the Netherlands: Stamppot. Stamppot is a traditional Dutch cuisine that supposedly has its roots in the 16th century. From a battle of puddings to...
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Guacamole's Timeless Appeal Across Centuries
In the twelfth episode of What The Food?, the boys cover one of the worlds most Instagrammable foods: Guacamole. A dish that seemingly came out of nowhere one day and conquered the globe in next to no time at all. Well, as we will see, Guac's been around for thousands of years and has a rich,...
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Medovik: A Sweet Russian Celebration of Honey and Lots of Layers
In this episode, the boys take their first step into the Russian Empire as they explore the sweet existence of Medovik. Medovik is a layer cake that celebrates the incredible honey those Russian bees are known to produce. The cake itself takes a ridiculously long time to make and has an…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to What the Food?—the podcast that dives into the weird, wild, and fascinating history of food, drinks, and dining cultures around the world. We’re Miles, Andy, and Dom—just three friends with a love for food and a knack for uncovering its untold stories. From surprising food origins to the moments that shaped how we eat, we uncover the strange, unexpected, and often hilarious history behind what ends up on our plates. Join us on our next culinary adventure through time!
HOSTED BY
Miles, Andy and Dom
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does What the Food? have?
What the Food? currently has 60 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is What the Food? about?
Welcome to What the Food?—the podcast that dives into the weird, wild, and fascinating history of food, drinks, and dining cultures around the world. We’re Miles, Andy, and Dom—just three friends with a love for food and a knack for uncovering its untold stories. From surprising food origins to the...
How often does What the Food? release new episodes?
What the Food? has 60 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to What the Food??
You can listen to What the Food? on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts What the Food??
What the Food? is created and hosted by Miles, Andy and Dom.
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