A Taste of History

Season 8

TV-G

A Taste of History is a TV 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.

Where to Watch A Taste of History • Season 8

PBSSubscription

13 Episodes

George Washington's Whiskey
E1
George Washington's WhiskeyThe Season 8 premiere explores George Washington's retirement years during a visit to Mount Vernon. Recipes include Washington's unaged rye whiskey, produced and sold from the on-site distillery, pecan-stuffed suckling pig, pork kidney and plum pudding.
Peace and Autonomy
E2
Peace and AutonomyThe world of the Maroons of Accompong Town is explored during a visit to Jamaica. Recipes include a traditional roasted jerk pig and a savor pepper pot soup.
German Born, American Made
E3
German Born, American MadeA visit to Henry Muhlenberg's family home in Trappe, Pa. Muhlenberg, an immigrant pastor, was father to Peter (Washington's general) and Henry Jr., a renowned botanist. Recipes include such German fare as pickled lamb tongue, stuffed cabbage and more.
Creole Cuisine and the War of 1812
E4
Creole Cuisine and the War of 1812The Battle of New Orleans, which catapulted Andrew Jackson to fame, is spotlighted. Recipes include redfish courtboullion, brandied bananas with rum and cream cheese ice cream and more.
300 Years of Service
E5
300 Years of ServicePhiladelphia's Christ Church, which dates to 1695, is explored. Recipes include sauerbraten, spicy cabbage slaw and more.
Bonaparte in St. Lucia
E6
Bonaparte in St. LuciaSaint Lucia, the contested jewel between the English and the French and also the hotly debated birthplace of French Empress Josephine Bonaparte, is discussed. Upper-class French recipes include Navarin d'Agneau and more.
Alexander Hamilton the Financier
E7
Alexander Hamilton the FinancierThe story of Alexander Hamilton is explored. Dishes include fricassee of veal with turnips, soft shell crabs and a classic dessert.
Cajon Cuisine of the Acadians
E8
Cajon Cuisine of the AcadiansA visit to Louisiana explores the Cajun culture and discovers the unique cuisine of the American South. Authentic Cajun recipes include rabbit and squirrel jambalaya; and turtle sauce piquante.
Yorktown - The Last Battle
E9
Yorktown - The Last BattleThe Battle of Yorktown, the final land battle of the American Revolution, is explored. Dishes include seafood stew; broad beans with pork and duck; and fried rabbit.
The Mummers: Pistols, Parasols & Parades
E10
The Mummers: Pistols, Parasols & ParadesThe Mummers, a unique part of Philadelphia's culture, are spotlighted. They're known for their vibrant costumes and New Year's Day parade. Recipes include Philadelphia pepperpot, braised bluefish, skillet cornbread and more.
Coffee Past, Present & Future
E11
Coffee Past, Present & FutureA visit to one of Philadelphia's longest running coffee producers. Java-inspired recipes include coffee-marinated tenderloin of beef, coffee-infused diver scallops, and coffee cake.
The Queen of the Caribbean
E12
The Queen of the CaribbeanThe tiny island of Nevis, known as the "Queen of the Caribbean" during the 18th century, is visited. Recipes include a plantation-style pig roast feast.
Washington's Character, Charisma & Ambition
E13
Washington's Character, Charisma & AmbitionThe Season 8 finale compiles Chef Walter Staib's favorite segments spotlighting George Washington.