Exploring history through the meals of iconic and controversial figures. Join me on a culinary journey through time, one recipe at a time.
Inspired by Charles Dickens
Oyster-stuffed mutton was recorded as Charles Dickens's favourite dish in his wife Catherine's 1851 dinner-planning book. This recipe uses lamb shoulder as a modern substitute for mutton, stuffed with bread, oysters, marjoram, and beef dripping, then roasted until tender.
Inspired by Frank Sinatra
Patsy's Italian Restaurant-style veal Milanese with rocket salad, inspired by Frank Sinatra's favourite order.
Inspired by Fryderyk Chopin
Rolady slaskie stuffed with bacon, pickles, and onion, served with braised red cabbage and potato dumplings inspired by Fryderyk Chopin's favourite comfort dinner.
Inspired by Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali's beloved comfort plate of spatchcocked baked chicken, southern-style macaroni and cheese, garlicky spinach, and sweet peas.
Inspired by Sarah Josepha Hale
The full turkey, stuffing, sides, and pumpkin pie feast that Sarah Josepha Hale popularised for America's Thanksgiving table.
Inspired by Al Capone
Silky spaghetti tossed in toasted walnut sauce with garlic, chilli, parsley, and parmesan—a comforting Italian favourite said to be loved by Al Capone.
Episode 14
Cooking the oyster-stuffed mutton that Catherine Dickens recorded as Charles's favourite dish in her 1851 dinner-planning book.
Episode 13
Cooking Frank Sinatra's beloved veal Milanese from Patsy's Italian Restaurant, complete with the arugula salad he always ordered.
Episode 12
Cooking the Polish beef roulades, braised cabbage, and dumplings that comforted Fryderyk Chopin while he lived abroad.
History isn't just about dates and battles—it's about the people who lived it. Through their favorite meals, we can understand their cultures, their times, and sometimes their controversies. Each episode explores not just how to cook these historical dishes, but why they mattered to the people who ate them.
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