In the United States, Cinco de Mayo is an excuse for margarita-fueled partying. But in Mexico, that date—the anniversary of a military triumph over Napoleon on May 5, 1862—is marked by a parade and not much else. The real celebrations happen on September 16, which is Mexican Independence Day. At Gastropod, we’re always down to party, so here’s to Mexico’s tr ... Show More
Jan 13
Canned Tomatoes and the Myth of the San Marzano
Canned tomatoes are a perfect winter food. As you'll know from our tomato episode, the beautiful fruits in fresh aisle of the supermarket are mostly flavorless outside of the summer season—but the tomatoes that get packed in a can are cheap, readily available, and, most important ... Show More
50m 16s
Dec 16
Is Your Cinnamon Fake? Where Does Kefir Come From? Plus: Why Is Citric Acid In Everything? Ask Gastropod!
The season for holiday baking is upon us, and before you spice up your cookies and pies, you’ll probably want to know: is most of the cinnamon on grocery store shelves actually fake? That’s one question we’re investigating this week on behalf of you, dear listeners, in the latest ... Show More
42m 33s
Dec 2
Forget Plain Vanilla: You'll Never See The World's Favorite Flavor the Same Way Again
Today, 'vanilla' often means boring, and yet the edible seedpod of this Central American orchid is one of the most expensive spices in the world, not to mention one of the most popular flavors globally. So how did this coveted bean get such a ho-hum reputation? Listen in this epi ... Show More
50m 45s
Jun 2021
La celebración de Día de Muertos en México
<p>This fourth season of Simple Stories in Spanish is focusing on celebrations. The celebration of Day of the Dead, or Día de Muertos, is a bright, colorful festivity to remember and honor those who have passed away. To celebrate deceased ancestors, graves are cleaned and decorat ... Show More
14m 57s
Apr 2023
Cinco de Mayo and the Rise of Modern Mexico (2022)
Does history have a border? That is the question at the heart of Cinco de Mayo, May 5th, a holiday that symbolizes Mexico's fight for autonomy, even as it's come to be associated with sales and cervezas and margaritas in the U.S. Cinco de Mayo is part of a much deeper story of tw ... Show More
50m 30s
Mar 2023
Semana Santa y Pascua al Estilo Mexicano | Holy Week and Easter’s the Mexican Style
<p>Join us as we explore the vibrant celebrations of Holy Week, Easter, and Lent in Mexico. We'll uncover the religious origins and share how these traditions merged with indigenous customs during the colonial era. Discover with us the captivating processions, Passion of Chr ... Show More
37m 40s
Apr 2023
Técnicas Ancestrales en la Cocina Mexicana Parte 2 | Ancient Techniques in Mexican Cuisine Part 2
<p>In the second part of the episode, we continue to delve into the world of traditional Mexican cooking techniques. From using quick lime to unlock the full potential of corn, to underground cooking in pits, and the art of grinding and milling ingredients, we uncover the secrets ... Show More
18m 6s
Oct 2021
La Ciudad Más Bonita de México con Laura Barrón - The Most Beautiful City in Mexico with Laura Barron
<p>Mexico is a big country with a variety of foods, cultures, and climates. But what do we think is the most beautiful city in the country? For us, it’s Guanajuato! A UNESCO World Heritage city located in the heart of the country with the best of everything Mexico has to offer. L ... Show More
31m 56s