The Secret Life Of

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.