The Secret Life Of

Épisode 1 - Secret Life of BBQ

8 juin 2004

Barbecue. It's as American as mom, apple pie and the 4th of July. Whether it's beef or pork, it's arguably our tastiest way to cook. In this smoke-filled half-hour, we explore the history of Texas, Memphis and Kansas City style barbecue, as well as the ever-popular barbecue cooking festivals.

Épisode 2 - Secret Life of Chocolate

15 juin 2004

From the ancient Mayans and Aztecs to the chocolatiers of Beverly Hills, chocolate has been one of our favorite foods. In this episode, we trace its growth from a ceremonial drink to a billion dollar industry. We also explore its scandalous links to romance and surprising role in the heyday of Hollywood.

Épisode 3 - Secret Life of Hamburgers

22 juin 2004

The hamburger is the quintessential American food. From its roots in Europe to its phenomenal growth in the U.S., we explore the colorful history of one of our favorite foods. It's no wonder Americans consume 40 billion a year - more than hot dogs, pizza and chocolate combined.

Épisode 4 - Secret Life of Sandwiches

29 juin 2004

A couple of bread, something in between, and you have yourself a sandwich. Named for the Earl of Sandwich, who is said to have "invented" it while playing cards, they now come in dozens of varieties. From the cheese steak to the French Dip to the Reuben to the most popular of them all - the ham sandwich - we take a flavorful look at America's #1 lunch food.

Épisode 5 - Secret Life of Popcorn

6 juillet 2004

When you think of the movies you think of popcorn. But its history can be traced back hundreds of thousands of years to prehistoric cave dwellers. Popcorn was present in 1620 at the first Thanksgiving, served as the basis for the very first breakfast cereal and boomed as a cheap affordable snack during The Great Depression.

Épisode 6 - Secret Life of Ice Cream

13 juillet 2004

Who doesn't like ice cream? It's everyone's feel-good food. But few people realize that our passion for ice cream began centuries ago, long before the invention of freezers and refrigerators. Here, we present the "cold facts" about this delectable dessert: From its colorful beginnings when ice was something only nature could make, to the birth of the ice cream cone at the 1904 World's Fair.

Épisode 7 - Secret Life of Chili

20 juillet 2004

If you order a bowl of "red" in Texas, don't expect beans. If you order a bowl of chili in Cincinnati, you might get a "three-way". Translation: chili, spaghetti and cheese. In this spicy half-hour, we explore chili's colorful history from its origins, most likely in South Texas, to the festive modern-day chili cook offs.

Épisode 8 - Secret Life of Donuts

27 juillet 2004

They came to America as olykoeks or "oily cakes" and have taken the country - and our stomachs - by storm. They're donuts, fried pieces of dough that have delighted folks for centuries. We look at the origin of the donut in Holland, the historical roots of the donut hole and why everyone from policemen to U.S. Presidents have fallen for this delectable treat.

Épisode 9 - Secret Life of Colas

3 août 2004

It began as a health tonic and boomed into the most popular consumer beverage on the planet. It's cola. We explore the cultural environment in which Coca-Cola was created, including its original "recipe" said to have contained cocaine. We also follow Coke's growth from soda fountain thirst quencher to international superstar and the ongoing "cola wars" with Pepsi.

Épisode 10 - Secret Life of Cookies

10 août 2004

Cookies - the ultimate comfort food. America's favorites are chocolate chip, but hundreds of varieties are baked daily in kitchens everywhere. We trace the history of these tasty treats that remind us of "home". From the Ancient Romans who baked hard biscuits called "bis coctum" - to the 7th Century Persians who improved the flavor using eggs, butter, cream and honey - to the birth of the first cookie factories.

Épisode 11 - Secret Life of Pies

17 août 2004

Sweet as pie". This enchanting food is so admired, it has become the measure of all that is delectable. In the Middle Ages, most pies were filled with meat, though you might find one with "4 and 20 blackbirds". The American Colonists were more partial to pumpkin or apple pie while today, the sky is the limit.

Épisode 12 - Secret Life of Pasta

24 août 2004

Every year, Americans consume three million tons of pasta - everything from penne to spaghetti to lasagna. All told, there are more than 600 forms served around the planet. Its roots take us back thousands of years to the Ancient Romans and Chinese who both filled up on it. During the Middle Ages, pasta was a status symbol.

Épisode 13 - Secret Life of Candy Bars

31 août 2004

Candy bars. They appeal to our "sweet tooth" and give us instant energy. This sugary industry began in Mom and Pop kitchens over a century ago - and now accounts for more than two billion dollars in sales on Halloween alone!

Épisode 14 - Secret Life of Muffins

7 septembre 2004

We find them in coffee shops, corner delis and supermarket shelves. But muffins have been with us for centuries. They first appeared as tea cakes in the 1700's, and grew in popularity over the next century as muffin men began traversing streets at teatime, ringing their bells and selling their wares.

Épisode 1 - Secret Life of Hot Dogs

5 septembre 2005

Americans eat 150 million of them on the Fourth every year alone, and 2 billion during the whole month of July. Yet no one seems to agree on the origin of its name or the best way to eat them. Join us as we unravel the arguments and uncover the Secret Life of Hot Dogs.

Épisode 2 - Secret Life of Diners

12 septembre 2005

Diners are a piece of pie, a cup of joe, and a red, white and blue plate full of Americana. Join host Jim O'Connor as he visits neighborhood diners where they still sling comfort food that keep people coming back for more.

Épisode 3 - Secret Life of Wedding Cakes

19 septembre 2005

In ancient times, the wedding cake was a potent symbol of love, unity and often the "scene-stealer" at more elaborate weddings. Join Host Jim O'Connor as he dons a tux and digs under the frosting to reveal the Secret Life of the Wedding Cake.

Épisode 4 - Secret Life of Coffee

26 septembre 2005

Coffee is the dark rich brew that gives you a boost in the morning and a break in the afternoon. In fact, as a world commodity coffee beans are second only to oil. How did a little bean become such a beloved beverage? Find out how when we reveal the Secret Life of Coffee.

Épisode 5 - Secret Life of Eggs

3 octobre 2005

Join Host Jim O'Connor as he unscrambles a variety of eggs, and ponders the eternal question of what came first, the chicken or the egg?

Épisode 6 - Secret Life of Honey

10 octobre 2005

Honey is nature's golden sweetener. Throughout the ages it has captured our culinary imaginations and tastebuds. Find out why this golden syrup has fascinated us for so long, when we explore...The Secret Life of Honey

Épisode 7 - Secret Life of Peanuts

17 octobre 2005

It pairs off with chocolate, ice cream, cookies and dried fruits. Its the peanut! Join us as we get to the root of the ordinary peanut and dig up the truth about this fun-loving, multi-talented - and ancient - treat in the Secret Life of Peanuts

Épisode 8 - Secret Life of Waffles

24 octobre 2005

The waffle arrived with the pilgrims, eventually evolving into a classic American breakfast. But who came up with the idea to make a waffle in the first place? Find out as we reveal the Secret Life of the Waffle!

Épisode 9 - Secret Life of Dumplings

31 octobre 2005

Dumplings are a food that's prevalent in one form or another in every culture around the world. Get ready; we're about to do a lot of globetrotting as we sink our teeth into the Secret life of Dumplings!

Épisode 10 - Secret Life of Cheesecake

7 novembre 2005

Cheesecake- America's favorite desert. From the old world style of the Pennsylvania Dutch, to the cutting edge slices of America's fanciest restaurants, join Jim O'Connor as he explores the creamy history behind the Secret Life of Cheesecake.

Épisode 11 - Secret Life of Fried Chicken

14 novembre 2005

Is there anything more American than fried chicken? There are hundreds of recipes and numerous debates about the best way to prepare this American classic. Jim O'Connor hears all the arguments and takes a seat at the table to explore The Secret Life of Fried Chicken.

Épisode 12 - Secret Life of Pudding

21 novembre 2005

It's one of America's favorite comfort foods, and its probably a lot older than you thought. Hot, cold, or frozen, pudding is such fun to eat. Jim O'Connor dives into the origins and varieties of one of America's most popular fun foods- pudding.

Épisode 13 - Secret Life of Pancakes

28 novembre 2005

Pancakes are eaten by the stack for breakfast, yet they can be dressed up, accessorized, and even brought out for dinner. Join Jim O'Connor as he serves up a tall order of history behind The Secret Life of Pancakes.

Épisode 1 - Secret Life of Chips

9 janvier 2006

Chips have had a fascinating journey through the centuries. Host Jim O?Connor explores the history and variety of America?s favorite chips, and then discovers new, innovative, and healthy variations on the classic snack

Épisode 2 - Secret Life of Birthday Parties

16 janvier 2006

How did birthday parties get started? How are they celebrated in other countries? Host Jim O?Connor uncovers the surprising secrets behind birthday parties, from the history of the birthday cake, to the variations of birthday party food served all over the world.

Épisode 3 - Secret Life of Cereal

23 janvier 2006

Hot or cold, cereal is America?s favorite way to start the day, yet its origins can be traced back to European roots. Host Jim O?Connor discovers the history of America?s favorite cereals, then dives into the new, healthy varieties that are appealing to contemporary breakfast lovers

Épisode 4 - Secret Life of French Fries

30 janvier 2006

They?re one of the most popular foods in the world. In Belgium and France they?re called "pommes frites," and in England they?re called "chips." In America, cooking innovations made them as popular as the hamburger. Join Jim O?Connor as he traces the origins of America?s favorite vegetable

Épisode 5 - Secret Life of Pretzels

6 février 2006

Pretzels, the popular snack with a divinely inspired shape. Join host Jim O?Connor as he visits Pennsylvania, the birthplace of the American pretzel, and then reveals the latest twist for this crunchy and chewy snack in The Secret Life?of Pretzels.

Épisode 6 - Secret Life of Sugar

13 février 2006

American consumes nearly 153 pounds of it a year! Host Jim O?Connor travels to Hawaii to get a taste for the yummy sweetener right from the cane, then gets a first hand look at how its used in everything from gourmet appetizers to highly prized artworks. Join him as he spins the sweet tale in The Secret Life of ...Sugar.

Épisode 7 - Secret Life of Milkshakes

20 février 2006

How did milkshakes become both so decadent and lovable? Grab your spoons and straws as Jim O?Connor traces the ever popular milkshake from pharmaceutical concoction to deliciously flavored fast food treat on The Secret Life of? Milkshakes.

Épisode 8 - Secret Life of Seaside Sweets

27 février 2006

For kids and adults alike, the beach is still that special place to indulge in saltwater taffy, fudge and frozen custard. Grab your swimsuit and join Jim O?Connor as he plunges into the tasty world of some of the nations? most delectable treats, on The Secret Life of Seaside Sweets

Épisode 9 - Secret Life of Sushi

6 mars 2006

Host Jim O?Connor travels from Honolulu to New York City to sample the freshest, most mouth-watering sushi in America. Pick up your chopsticks and join Jim as he goes fishing for The Secret Life of Sushi

Épisode 10 - Secret Life of Bagels

13 mars 2006

Once relegated as a bland breakfast food and occasionally dressed up with lox and cream cheese, bagels today have more flavors than you can shake a schmear at. Join host Jim O?Connor as he visits the most authentic and innovative bagel bakeries in the U.S. and learns the "hole" secret behind The Secret Life of Bagels.

Épisode 11 - Secret Life of Brownies

20 mars 2006

Host Jim O?Connor travels from coast to coast to uncover the gooiest, sweetest and most addicting treats in America on The Secret Life of Brownies.

Épisode 12 - Secret Life of Soft Drinks

27 mars 2006

What makes soda so enticing? Host Jim O?Connor pops the lid off the sparking history of the soft drink while sampling America?s oldest - and newest- soft drink flavors on The Secret Life of Soft Drinks

Épisode 13 - Secret Life of Gum

3 avril 2006

We chew about 350 sticks of gum every year. Join Jim O?Connor as he goes behind the scenes of America?s sticky obsession on The Secret Life of Bubble Gum.

Épisode 1 - Secret LIfe of Pastries

7 novembre 2005

Pastries and their mouth-watering fillings have lured us for centuries. Join Jim O'Connor to find out how these treats got their start in the oven and made their way to our tastebuds.

Épisode 2 - Secret Life of Cajun and Creole

27 février 2006

Jambalya, Oysters Rockefeller, and spicy smoked sausage, crawfish etouffe, red beans and rice, and gumbo! Louisiana is world-famous for its Cajun and Creole cuisine. But where exactly did Cajun food come from? And what, if anything, sets Cajun apart from Creole? Join Jim O?Connor as he journeys down south in search of answers.

Épisode 3 - Secret Life of Steak

28 novembre 2005

Whether it's a ribeye, porterhouse, NY strip or a Filet Mignon, there's nothing that can compare to a great steak. Join Jim O'Connor as he explores the history of this American Favorite.

Épisode 4 - Secret Life of Southwestern Food

12 décembre 2005

It?s a style of cuisine most known for its generous and ingenious use of chile peppers. And?it is comprised of a fusion of recipes from Native Americans, Spaniards, Mexicans, and Cowboys. Join host Jim O?Connor as he visits New Mexico and takes the lid off the history of Southwestern Cuisine

Épisode 5 - Secret Life of Southern Food

9 janvier 2006

The American south is famous for its mouthwatering, "stick to your ribs" fare like fried chicken, cornbread, sweet potatoes, and black eyed peas. But how did these dishes get their start? Host Jim O?Connor digs in to reveal the secret life of Southern Food.

Épisode 6 - Secret Life of Cocktails

26 décembre 2005

From the Singapore Sling to the Whiskey Sour, there?s no doubt about it, America?s crazy about the cocktail. But when exactly was the first cocktail hour? And how many cocktail creations are really out there? Join host Jim O?Connor for a happy half-an-hour as he distills the mystery of mixology and spills the history of the cocktail.

Épisode 7 - Secret Life of Succulent Seafood

2 janvier 2006

You can have them grilled, steamed, or boiled, and you can enjoy them in elegant restaurants or in casual beachside shacks. No matter where you eat ?em, or how- lobster, crab legs, clams, and shrimp tantalize our tastebuds. Join Jim O?Connor as he casts the net and cracks open the shell to reveal the history of succulent seafood.

Épisode 8 - Secret Life of Comfort Foods

16 janvier 2006

A hearty home-cooked meal after work, chicken soup when you?re a little sick, even a pint of ice cream when Mr. Right turns out to be Mr. Wrong? these foods soothe the soul as well as the stomach. So grab your favorite blanket as Jim O?Connor explores the what, when, why?s and how?s of? comfort food

Épisode 9 - Secret Life of Fiery Foods

16 janvier 2006

Some like it hot. Some like it nuclear. But make no mistake, when playing with fire, you will get burned. Join host Jim O?Connor as he explores the teary-eyed history behind the chile pepper, hot sauces, and fiery dishes from around the world.

Épisode 10 - Secret Life of Food Styling

23 janvier 2006

From the intricate designs of fruit carvings, to the secrets behind the mouthwatering images in advertising, food styling is a craft to behold. Host Jim O?Connor learns some tricks of the trade and how it all began in the secret life of food styling.

Épisode 11 - Secret Life of Garlic

20 mars 2006

Garlic has been regarded for centuries as a miracle cure and many believe it even wards away evil. It has been around for more than 6,000 years in our gardens and kitchens and helps transform simple dishes into taste extravaganzas. Join Jim O?Connor as he takes a deep breath and makes a big stink about garlic?s well-rooted history.

Épisode 12 - Secret Life of Cafeterias

20 février 2006

It might be one of your earliest memories of childhood, and it?s regarded as the first form of American fast food. Whether it?s meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, or chicken pot pie, you need no permission to help yourself. So, get a tray and get in line as host Jim O?Connor visits the cafeteria.

Épisode 13 - Secret Life of Salt

6 mars 2006

Salt is the world's oldest food additive, and who can think of a kitchen or food table without it? Jim O'Connor explores the important role salt has played in world history, while discovering the surprising varieties of salts used in cooking today.

Épisode 1 - Secret Life of Sweet Toppings

22 mai 2006

Melt in-your-mouth Chantilly cream, hot fudge on a sundae, frothy cream cheese frosting or warm gooey caramel. In the universe of food, tantalizingly fruity confections, drizzled sauces and foamy whips are the tops. Join us as we pour out the history of America?s favorite sweet toppings.

Épisode 2 - Secret Life of Bread Spreads

24 avril 2006

Jim O'Connor explores the history and popularity of delicious bread toppings, including mustard, olive tapenade, jams and jellies. A family run New Jersey mustard company is visited, as well as a popular Los Angeles Italian restaurant for olive tapenade, and a small San Francisco company known for its innovative, flavorful jams and jellies.

Épisode 3 - Secret Life of Grocery Stores

1 mai 2006

Whether it?s a one-stop shop or a bulk stock-up?you likely visit this place at least twice a week. Some come as big as a warehouse, while others are just large enough for mom and pop. We?re talking about the grocery store. Grab a cart and check out its fascinating history!

Épisode 4 - Secret Life of Dips

8 mai 2006

Creamy, spicy or sweet, dips are the life of the party from the most lavish buffet table to the most casual Super Bowl get together. But what exactly defines a dip? And where did the dip get its start? Join host Jim O?Connor for a double dip inside the bowl.

Épisode 5 - Secret Life of Hors D'Oeuvres

15 mai 2006

What is your favorite - cheese and crackers, deviled eggs or pigs in a blanket? Would you prefer them as hors d ?oeuvres, appetizers or starters? Actually is there really a difference? And can their origins be traced? You bet! If that?s enough of a tease then join Jim O?Connor for the main course on The Secret Life of Hors D?Oeuvres.

Épisode 6 - Secret Life of Dinner Drinks

5 juin 2006

What can turn an ordinary dinner into a dining experience? The addition of dinner drinks. A light wine, a hearty lager, a fine brandy?the right drink at the right time can stimulate your appetite, enhance the taste of food and even help you digest. Join host Jim O?Connor as he learns the ins and outs of being a sommelier, tries wine with Mexican food and learns that beer actually does go with dessert.

Épisode 7 - Secret Life of Sugary Sensations

19 juin 2006

Chocolate souffle, creamy mousse, baked Alaska and panna cotta are all desserts generally saved for special occasions. We call them sugary sensations. Join host Jim O?Connor as he sinks his sweet tooth into the history and facts behind these decadent desserts.

Épisode 8 - Secret Life of Luau

12 juin 2006

Aloha! Hawaii is known for its unique and delectable food, exotic tropical fresh fruit and festive drinks and of course its famous luaus. Join Jim O?Connor as he journeys to the Aloha State in search of the origins and colorful foods of the luau.

Épisode 9 - Secret Life of Island Eats

The Caribbean, a melting pot of flavors and traditions, is known for its jerk chicken, spiny lobster, plantains, coconuts and rum punch . Join host Jim O?Connor as he uncovers the hidden history behind these fascinating foods.

Épisode 10 - Secret Life of Meals on the Move

3 juillet 2006

A vacation is that time when you don't have to worry about cooking?unless you want to. Some vacations center around food and Jim O'Connor is on a quest to find them. He jets off to the Caribbean where an entire resort is dedicated to cooking and cuisine, then moves west to Montana to explore foods inspired by the wilderness. Last but not least, he'll get cozy at a favorite amongst vacation spots?a New England bed and breakfast.

Épisode 11 - Secret Life of Chilled Treats

26 juin 2006

Boardwalk sno-cones, fruity sorbet, tropical Hawaiian shaved ice, melt-in-your-mouth frozen yogurt: these are some of America?s favorite summertime chilled treats. Come along with Jim O?Connor as he learns the ins and outs of TCBY, journeys to Oahu?s North Shore for some authentic shaved ice and finds a fruity chilled treat in an unexpected dish.

Épisode 12 - Secret Life of Romantic Treats

17 juillet 2006

When we?re on the move, we want our meals to keep up with us. In fact, we want them to be as first class as our accommodations. So get your sea legs, hop aboard, put those tray tables down and join us as we explore the history and the cuisine served and savored on ships, trains and planes.

Épisode 13 - Secret Life of Vacation Eats

10 juillet 2006

For centuries, decadent foods have shared an intimate bond with love and romance. A glass of sparkling wine, oysters on the half-shell, a fancy box of chocolates. But what is it about these foods that put us in the mood? How did they get such sinful reputations and who had a hand in shaping them?

Épisode 1 - Secret Life of Drive-Ins

7 août 2006

They brought a new way of dining to a generation of automobile-loving Americans. They evoke memories of poodle skirts and roller-skating waitresses. Today, you can get anything there from a juicy cheeseburger and fries to hot dogs, crab sandwiches and even a Hawaiian plate lunch! Join host Jim O?Connor as he drives his way to Dallas, the city where they all started, to New Jersey for a drive-in where crab sandwiches are all the rage and to the far reaches of Waikiki Beach where a local drive-in serves hamburgers next to ahi.

Épisode 2 - Secret Life of Irish Pubs

14 août 2006

The Irish Pub is a neighborhood place where the regulars come to eat, drink and be merry. They?re a place where hearty, home cooked comfort food has become as much a priority as hand-crafted ales and stouts. Join Jim O?Connor as he samples a bit of tradition and some shepherd's pie, Irish stew, corned beef and fish and chips.

Épisode 3 - Secret Life of Theme Restaurants

21 août 2006

In these restaurants, juicy steaks and coconut prawns are not only dining, they?re theater. Once inside a theme restaurant, you?re in for not only an exciting eating experience, but much, much more. How did they start? You might be surprised! Join host Jim O?Connor as he traces back the origins and digs into the future of Theme Restaurants.

Épisode 4 - Secret Life of Tex Mex

11 septembre 2006

Tex Mex is a vibrant, highly spiced cuisine known for its generous use of meat, beans and cheese. Ingenious combinations of these ingredients produce nachos, chili, tacos, chimichangas and fajitas. The name itself blends its two areas of influence: Texas and Mexico. Join host Jim O'Connor as he ventures to the Lone Star State for a taste of history loaded with spicy ingredients.

Épisode 5 - Secret Life of Roadhouses

18 septembre 2006

Roadhouses are the roadside cafes, saloons, taverns and inns providing respite and good grub for weary travelers. They can be off-beat, down-home, or down right delicious. Join Jim O'Connor as he takes to the highways of Montana, Oregon and New Jersey . . . steaks, ribs, bean soup and more!

Épisode 6 - Secret Life of Tailgating

27 janvier 2007

It has become an American phenomenon. Burgers, bratwurst, ribs or kabobs? Just fire up the grill and let the cooking begin! Jim O'Connor explores the rivalry between the fans from East Coast to West as he digs up the origins of the time-honored tradition of the tailgater.

Épisode 7 - Secret Life of Movie Treats

25 septembre 2006

Everyone's heard of "dinner and a movie," but how about "dinner at a movie"? While the traditional popcorn is still America's favorite cinema snack, some of today's movie theaters offer far more than conventional munchies. Whether you fancy a hamburger with a horror film or a cr?me brulee with a comedy classic, host Jim O'Connor will trace the evolution of America's award-winning movie treats.

Épisode 8 - Secret Life of Quick Fix Foods

2 octobre 2006

In our busy lives we often have so much on our plate, we don't have time to spare, much less time to cook. But like clockwork, we all get hungry, and to ensure that our food is still filling, nutritious and delicious, we turn to many time-saving measures and kitchen shortcuts that help bring meals to the table lickety-split! Modern technology meets the sophisticated palate when Jim O'Connor explores the delicious varieties that are available for diners in a hurry.

Épisode 9 - Secret Life of Camping

9 avril 2007

Meat roasting over an open fire. Warm chocolate and gooey marshmallow on top of a crispy graham cracker. Flapjacks and bacon in a skillet. Nothing is more satisfying than eating outdoors. But what are the secrets to eating out on the range without a range? Jim O'Connor puts on his boots and apron to explore traditional campground foods and some surprising new twists for dining in the wild.

Épisode 10 - Secret Life of Sweet and Sour Candy

16 octobre 2006

Your eyes may tear and your face may twitch, but everyone loves sweet and sour candy. It started as a kids' favorite, but now it's the rage with adults too. It comes in hard candies, jellies, lollipops, powders and even liquids. Host Jim O'Connor puckers up to try some time-tested favorites and the wildest of the latest creations.

Épisode 11 - Secret Life of Cowboy Food

6 novembre 2006

It's a style of eating and cooking as old as the American West. From giant rib eye steaks to Texas style BBQ, or just a good ol' pot of beans, cowboy food was just the thing needed before hitting the range. Host Jim O'Connor saddles up from Texas to California to explore the surprisingly delicious world of cowboy food.

Épisode 12 - Secret Life of Diets

1 janvier 2007

Being on a diet used to mean simply eating less to lose weight, but today's diets satisfy the dining urge by offering a range of delicious alternatives. From indulging in all the beef and chicken you want to enjoying delicious vegetarian meals, diets offer new perspectives in how to eat healthy, lose weight and feel great. Host Jim O'Connor tightens his belt to examine the history of weight loss and alternative diets.

Épisode 13 - Secret Life of Cheese

22 janvier 2007

Cheese is one of the most varied and subtle foods in the world. In taste it can be bland, buttery, innocuous, rich, creamy, pungent, sharp, salty or lightly delicate. Cheese can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a dessert, and it pairs beautifully with everything from hamburgers to fruit. But cheese by itself is only the beginning. It's also an essential ingredient to traditional dishes and to new, innovative creations. Jim O'Connor unseals the mysteries behind the most universal of foods: cheese.

Épisode 1 - Secret Life of Las Vegas

30 avril 2007

Whether its lobster, filet mignon, caviar, black truffle soup, or endless buffets of all you can eat sushi; Las Vegas has become a diner?s dream destination.

Épisode 2 - Secret Life of Hollywood Eats

26 juillet 2007

Lights camera entr?e! Hollywood is famous for being the movie capital of the world, but it's also celebrated for its delicious and innovative cuisine.

Épisode 3 - Secret Life of California Cuisine

4 juin 2007

California has some of the best foods, from successful fast food franchises to "California cuisine."

Épisode 4 - Secret Life of Breakfast

18 juin 2007

George Duran explores how breakfast varies between the world's cultures and regions.

Épisode 5 - Secret Life of Delis

7 mai 2007

George visits one of the oldest delis in the United States.

Épisode 6 - Secret Life of Vending Machines

21 mai 2007

Host George Duran examines the evolution of the vending machine.

Épisode 7 - Secret Life of Superstitious Foods

16 juillet 2007

George Duran explores the myths, legends, stories and fallacies behind the superstitions surrounding your favorite foods.

Épisode 8 - Secret Life of Dough

23 juillet 2007

Host George Duran explores the history of one of the oldest and most versatile of prepared foods...bread.

Épisode 9 - Secret Life of Take Out Food

19 mai 2007

Eating take out food is an American tradition, but times and appetites have changed.

Épisode 10 - Secret Life of Beer

9 juin 2007

Beer - it's the beverage of choice around the world and a part of many culture's histories and traditions.

Épisode 11 - Secret Life of International Barbeque

13 août 2007

Various international bbq specialities are detailed.

Épisode 12 - Secret Life of Cooking Contests

11 juin 2007

George Duran looks at how cooking contests have long provided amateur chefs an instant shot at culinary fame and fortune.

Épisode 13 - Secret Life of Hard Candy

6 août 2007

Once taken solely as medicine, hard candy evolved into one of America's favorite sweet passions.

Épisode 1 - Secret Life of Easter

17 mars 2008

Join host George Duran as he examines the origins of some popular Easter sweets, explores why we eat ham on Easter and why we hunt for eggs.

Épisode 2 - Secret Life of Power Boosters

30 mars 2008

Join host George Duran as he uncovers the secrets behind our favorite energy foods, that ginseng is more than just an ingredient in power bars and visits a restaurant in NYC dedicated to "pumping you up."

Épisode 3 - Secret Life of Cake

17 juillet 2008

Host George Duran uncovers why the cake has traditionally been a symbol of celebration while he takes a look at the history of cupcakes, King Cakes, Election Cakes and more!

Épisode 4 - Secret Life of Gingerbread

7 décembre 2007

Host George Duran explores gingerbread. He uncovers a modern day gingerbread man recipe in Washington DC, learns the secrets to building a stellar gingerbread house and reveals the many ways one of our favorite holiday flavors is used from cocktails to soups to toothpaste!

Épisode 5 - Secret Life of Pub Grub

3 juillet 2008

Join Host George Duran as he takes a look at the origins of bar food from olives and porridge in Ancient Rome to America's endless varieties today: burgers, tapas, buffalo wings and more!

Épisode 6 - Secret Life of Coffee Shops

15 novembre 2007

George Duran explores the American coffee shop. When the first coffee shop opened in America, what made these stores unique and George reveals the secret behind the tradition of the bottomless cup of Joe.

Épisode 7 - Secret Life of Family Restaurants

17 avril 2008

No doubt about it, we love to eat out, especially with our families. George Duran takes a look at the history of family restaurants from the very first American eating establishments that were family owned and operated to today's concept of family dining .

Épisode 8 - Secret Life of Cooking Schools

8 août 2007

If you want to learn how to make sushi, bake a cake, or whip up exotic Asian cuisine, chances are there s a class you can take. Join host George Duran as he takes a look at some of these crash course classes and America s largest cooking school, and finds out how the art of cooking was passed on before the idea of classes began.

Épisode 9 - Secret Life of Military Meals

7 janvier 2008

During war, soldiers have to eat, and what they eat often goes beyond mere sustenance. Join host George Duran as he explores how the Navy feeds men on a submarine for months at a time, the quick, portable dining methods the Army uses in the field and the "secret" language the military uses to describe some common foods.

Épisode 11 - Secret Life of Catering

10 juillet 2008

A caterer is expected to know not just how to prepare food, but how to make it taste great, look beautiful and keep it all organized. This is nothing new; in fact, evidence shows that caterers have been around since the era of Ancient Greece. Host George Duran explores the history of wedding caterers and helps pull off a "silver service" wedding, visits a Texas ranch that puts a spin on catered BBQ and uncovers some secrets to keeping your next catered party on budget.

Épisode 12 - Secret Life of Test Kitchens

21 janvier 2008

Most of the items we buy in grocery stores and order off restaurant menus are the result of a carefully controlled, scientific operation known as the "test kitchen." George Duran explores their history and takes you inside the secret labs of Campbell's, CPK, Better Homes and Gardens and more.

Épisode 13 - Secret Life of Spirits

28 janvier 2008

Whether it's rum cakes, Bananas Foster or bourbon BBQ with a kick, distilled spirits aren't just for drinking anymore. Join host George Duran as he journeys to one of America's earliest distilleries (owned and operated by George Washington!), uncovers the history of bourbon while learning the secrets to cooking with it and reveals the truth about hangover remedies.