Passing the Plate Podcast

10 Episodes
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By: Ashley Covelli and Lisa Lisson

The Passing the Plate podcast is all about food, traditions, and the wonderful connections they create. Each week, co-hosts Ashley Covelli of Big Flavors from a Tiny Kitchen and Lisa Lisson of Are You My Cousin? will guide you on a flavor-packed adventure.Tune in to dive into family history, explore new cultures and cuisines, and preserve favorite recipes for future generations. Every episode of Passing the Plate guarantees to be a feast for the senses and a celebration of togetherness.Visit passingtheplate.org for more.

59: Bourbon, Bootleggers, and the Kentucky Derby
#59
Today at 9:00 AM

Can't tell your bourbon from your whiskey? Don't know why mint juleps and the Kentucky Derby go hand-in-hand? We've got you covered. 

This week, we're pouring a glass of Kentucky's liquid history as we trace how these spirits shaped American culture. Join us for this spirited conversation just in time for Derby weekend. 

Keep the learning going with these resources and websites:

Our sponsor: Storied.Mint Julep cupsThe History of the Mint Julep Is a Lot Deeper Than You ThinkMint Julep: History of a Classic Cocktail


58: Blast from the Past: Easter Celebrations Through the Decades
#58
04/17/2025

Step back to Easter Sunday, 1920. We'll recreate the sights and smells of holiday tables across America through recipes, advertisements, and family stories. 

Learn about traditional dishes that graced these feasts, regional variations, and how Prohibition shaped celebrations. 

Keep the exploration and learning going with these resources and websites.

Newspapers.comUnlocking Ancestral Secrets in the Newspapers!How To Find and Use Historical Newspapers in Your Genealogy Research

Discover which customs endured and which faded with time. See show notes at www.passingtheplate.org/58.

Thanks for tuning in to the Passing the Plate po...


57: Meet Lisa: Family Trees & Food History
#57
04/03/2025

Pull up a chair as we chat with co-host Lisa Lisson about her path into genealogy and food history.

She shares pivotal moments that shaped her career, practical research tips, and how tracing family recipes sparked bigger historical questions.

Lisa opens up about lessons learned, research wins, and why understanding our ancestors' lives through food matters. See show notes at www.passingtheplate.org/57.

Learn about searching for your ancestors and discovering your family history with the following resources:

Sign up for the Are You My Cousin? newsletter and get actionable genealogy tips...


56: Kitchen Copycat: The Art of Recipe Recreation
#56
03/20/2025

Want that restaurant vinaigrette or bakery cookie at home? We'll share strategies for recreating beloved dishes, starting with simple observation and tasting notes. 

Learn the art of recipe detection through real attempts - like a NYC bakery's famous chocolate chip cookies and a restaurant's signature balsamic dressing. 

Plus, practical tips for experimenting, adjusting portions, and knowing when "close enough" hits the spot. See show notes at www.passingtheplate.org/56 .

Mentioned in the episode:

Copycat recipe cookbooksAlice’s Tea Cup Cookbook on Bookshop or Amazon GoldbellyGuava Cooler Tequila CocktailHomemade Fajita Seasoning (Penzeys Copycat)Cream...


55: Spice Box Stories: Cinnamon Takes Center Stage
#55
03/06/2025

This aromatic spice shaped trade routes and transformed cuisines across continents. 

We'll talk all about cinnamon's rich history, bust common myths, and share creative uses beyond desserts. 

Learn about the amazing variety of cinnamon types, plus discover its surprising role in savory dishes across global traditions. See show notes at www.passingtheplate.org/55 .

Links and websites mentioned in the episode:

Episode 33: Spice It Up: Creating Your Own Flavorful BlendsCinnamon History and Uses from The Spruce EatsWhy Ceylon Cinnamon Is So Expensive - video The History of Cinnamon | MySpicer.com | Spices, Herbs & BlendsCinnamon Ver...


54: Side Dish Symphony: Tradition Meets Innovation
#54
02/20/2025

We're exploring the essential role of side dishes in creating memorable meals. Learn how these supporting players have evolved from simple vegetable sides to creative culinary statements.

This episode uncovers traditional wisdom about meal balance while exploring modern approaches to side dish innovation. Get ready to make your side dishes shine!

Keep the learning going as you explore the resources and links in today’s episode.

Cucumber & Cannellini Bean Salad with DillGreen LentilsWarm French Lentil Salad from Bob’s Red Mill  Ashley’s favorite garlic breadSheet pan roasted green beansHomemade grill seasoning  Fridge Love on Amazo...


53: The Chocolate Files: Past, Present & Possibilities
#53
02/06/2025

We're talking about the yummy history of chocolate and the artistry behind its creation. Learn about the distinct profiles of dark, milk, and white chocolate, plus the secrets of modern chocolatiers.

This episode explores chocolate's global influence and its evolution into the sophisticated treat we know today. Get ready to experience chocolate in a whole new light!

 Keep exploring all about chocolate in these websites and resources mentioned in this episode:

Learn more about types of chocolate


52: Chicken Done Right: Kitchen Stories & Essential Tips
#52
01/23/2025

We're talking about the secrets to perfecting everyone's favorite poultry dish. In this episode we are focusing on family stories of chicken dinners while exploring practical tips for achieving juicy, flavorful results every time.

Learn essential techniques from traditional roasting to modern methods, and discover new ways to bring excitement to your chicken repertoire. Get ready to transform your chicken dinner game!

See show notes at www.passingtheplate.org/52

Thanks for tuning in to the Passing the Plate podcast! Ready to dig deeper into your kitchen adventures? Make sure to visit:

Check...


51: Beyond the Glaze: America's Donut Heritage
#51
01/09/2025

We're exploring the interesting story of donuts and their place in American culture. These yummy treats have sparked regional pride, created lasting family traditions, and even earned a spot at holiday tables throughout history. Learn about the art of cake versus raised varieties, settle the great spelling debate, and discover why donuts remain a centerpiece of celebrations nationwide. Get ready to experience America's favorite pastry in a whole new way! 

Extend your donut exploration with this links and websites mentioned in the episode:

Krispy KremeDunkin’ DonutsInternational Talk Like a Pirate DayDoughnut PlantDuck DonutsFractured PrunePeaceful ProvisionsMargarita Donuts Bake...


50: Ringing in the New Year With Global Celebrations
#50
12/26/2024

As 2024 comes to a close, we're celebrating the arrival of the new year by exploring New Year's traditions from around the world. Learn about casting molten tin in Finland and eating twelve grapes in Spain, and discover how different cultures mark the start of a new year in unique and meaningful ways.

This episode is a culinary and cultural journey that highlights the diversity of New Year's celebrations across the globe.

Resources and links mentioned in the episode:

10 New Year’s Eve Traditions Around the World by Rhys MackenzieKoreatown in New York Ci...