Chewing

Episode 138: Lunar New Year Eats and Treats

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

This week on Chewing, we talk about Lunar New Year eats and treats. Monica goes to Crumbs.nd.Creams and talks to the co-owners of Chicago's home of Sylvanas, the Filipino frozen sandwich cookie. Then, Monica talks with founders of Every Body Eat, allergen free snacks and then dares Louisa and Iris to taste some of the so-called "clean crackers," but will they eat it?

Episode 137: Markets, Chaos and Scoby Snax

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week on Chewing, we talk about markets, chaos and scoby snax! Monica does a ride along with Blue Hill at Stone Barns chef Dan Barber to talk about his Row 7 Seed Company, and makes a trip to the farmers market. Ecologist Mark Easter tells us about his James Beard nominated book The Blue Plate: A Food Lover's Guide to Climate Chaos, along with more Beard nominees including chef and filmmaker Art Smith! Finally, Monica dares her family to try fungi cold cuts, and double dares Iris and Louisa to taste her homemade scoby snacks, but will they eat it?

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Insta

Louisa Chu @louisachu1

Monica Eng @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"Flavor" by Maren Morris

"Sprout and the Bean" by Joanna Newsom

"La Costa Del Silencio" by Mägo de Oz

"Not That Simple" by Yann Tiersen

"Mycelium" by King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard

Episode 136: Babes, Pizza and Hot Stuff

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week on Chewing, we talk about babes, pizza, and hot stuff. First, Monica talks to My Pi pizza founder Larry Aronson about his last pizzeria closing in Chicago after 54 years. Then, Professor Steve Balkin talks about the death of Maxwell Street as he makes Monica some homemade matzo brie. Lastly, James Park talks about his cookbook "Chili Crisp: 50+ Recipes to Satisfy Your Spicy, Crunchy, Garlicky Cravings."

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Insta

Louisa Chu @louisachu1

Monica Eng @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"Be Sweet" (Korean Version) by Japanese Breakfast feat. So!YoON!

"Heart of Gold" by Neil Young

"Look In My Eyes" by The Chantels

"Life is but a Dream" by The Harptones

"Hot Sauce" by NCT Dream

Episode 135: International Street Food

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week on Chewing, we talk about international street food. First, Monica talks to Faraz Sardharia about his new restaurant Rickshaw Pakistani & Indian Street Eats, which raises funds for unhoused people in Chicago. Monica also talks to women's rights advocate Rohini Dey about transforming her pioneering modern Indian restaurant Vermilion into a women-centric "cocktail den" called Sanctuary in River North. Then, Monica talks to Steven Marks, the American who co-founded the Mexican restaurant chain Guzman y Gomez in Australia that's now invading Chicago's suburbs. Finally, Louisa talks to India Jenkins, the owner of The Corned Beef Hideout and the creator of spicy jerk corned beef sandwich called That Jerk, but will they eat it?!

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Louisa Chu @louisachu1

Monica Eng @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Episode 134: Joe Yonan, Feld restaurant, canned krill

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

This week on Chewing, we talk about plants, Feld, and krill. First, Monica talks to Washington Post Food and Dining editor — and bestselling author — Joe Yonan about his new book, "Mastering the Art of Plant-Based Cooking"! Then Louisa talks to the chef and owner of one of the most polarizing new restaurants in Chicago — and former guest of Chewing, Jake Potashnick of Feld. Monica talks to the owner of Fry the Coop about why he only uses beef fat when frying. Lastly, Monica dares Louisa and Iris to taste canned krill — best known as whale food — but will they eat it?!

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Insta

Louisa Chu @louisachu1

Monica Eng @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"Garden (Say It like Dat)" by SZA

"Big Cheese" by Nirvana

"Spice Up Your Life" by Spice Girls

"Shake Hands With Beef" by Primus

Episode 133: Ruth Reichl, Hewn bread, Volition tea, cultivated meat

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week on Chewing, we talk about how sisters are doing it for sustainability! First, Monica talks to legendary author and editor Ruth Reichl about her new documentary film Food and Country. Then, we talked to Hewn Bread founder Ellen King and Volition Tea founder Annie Xiang about their big expansions. Finally, Monica talked to Upside Food COO Amy Chen who offered Monica a taste of their cultivated meat, but did she eat it? Lastly, a new bonus segment with a new jingle!

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Insta

Louisa Chu @louisachu1

Monica Eng @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"A Better Future" by David Bowie

"Bread and Butter" by The Newbeats

"Tea For Two (with Choir and Orchestra)" by Doris Day

"Cup Of Tea" by Kacey Musgraves

"Cells" by They Might Be Giants

"Chicken" by Pixies

"Le Grand café" by Charles Trenet

Episode 132: George R.R. Martin workshop, Honey Ahmed, Curtis Chin

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica and Louisa talk Honey and Fun Guys. First, Monica went to the inaugural George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop, where she made Malaysian rice balls with fellow fellow, Honey Ahmad. Monica also talked to author and filmmaker Curtis Chin about his book "Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant." Finally, Monica talks to Josh Noel about his new book on Malort and dares Louisa and Iris to try fungi yogurt, but will they eat it?

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facebook.com/chewingpodcast

Insta

Louisa Chu @louisachu1

Monica Eng @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites by Monica Eng and David Hammond

Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant by Curtis Chin

Malört: The Redemption of a Revered and Reviled Spirit by Josh Noel

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"Janji" by Aziz Harun

"Masing Masing" by Ernie Zakri, Ade Govinda

"Early in the Morning" by The Gories

"Detroit City Blues" by Fats Domino

"Crying at Airports" by Whale

Episode 131: Beards, Goats and Bear

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week on Chewing, Monica and Louisa report back from the James Beard Awards. Monica talks to Outstanding Chef winner Michael Rafidi, Best Chef: Great Lakes winner Hajime Sato, and Lifetime Achievement Award winner Ruth Reichl. Then, Monica chats with Capriole Goat Cheese founder Judy Schad and Prairie Grass Cafe chef and co-owner Sarah Stegner. Louisa talks about her story on The Bear and dares Monica and Iris to try a James Beard award-winning chef's cannabis chocolate. Last, Monica catches up with TikTok star Jake Potashnick on finally opening the doors to his new farm-to-table restaurant Feld.

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Insta

Louisa Chu @louisachu1

Monica Eng @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"Working for the Knife" by Mitzki

"Fly Over States" by Jason Aldean

"The Midwest Can Be Alright" by The Gizmos

"Grass Canons" by Olivia Tremor Control

"A New Day Has Come" by Celine Dion

Episode 130: Fake fish, black jello, José André dog treats

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 13 May 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week on Chewing, Monica recaps her Chicago adventures in beef, beer, bowls, and baseball. Then, she tastes fake fish and talks to Aqua Cultured Foods co-founder and CGO Brittany Chibe! Lastly, Louisa dares Monica & Iris to eat black jello from Costco and dares our dogs to eat treats from José Andrés!

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facebook.com/chewingpodcast

Insta

Louisa Chu @louisachu1

Monica Eng @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

Music

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"It's A Beautiful Day For A Ball Game" by The Harry Simeone Songsters

"Funkytown" by Lipps Inc.

"Galang" by M.I.A.

"Fish & Whistle" by John Prine

Episode 129: Chef Geno Bahena, La Grande Boucherie, John's Food & Wine

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica and Louisa talk about mole, French food, and corned beef. First, Monica talks to veteran chef Geno Bahena who's now cooking at Manchamanteles. Then, Monica talks to Emil Stefkov, founder of La Grande Boucherie, which claims it's the biggest restaurant in Chicago. Finally, Louisa reveals details on the corned beef sandwich at John's Food & Wine, where they're paying their cooks $36 an hour!

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Threads @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"Mexicana Hermosa" (Versión Mariachi) by Natalia Lafourcade ft. Carlos Rivera

"Logan's Loop" by Andrew Bird

"Pulaski At Night" by Andrew Bird

"There Is A Light That Never Goes Out" by The Smiths

"Be Sweet" by Japanese Breakfast

Episode 128: Maxwells Trading, Feld, next gen chefs

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica and Louisa talk about the next gen of chefs and King Cake season. Monica interviews chef Erling Wu-Bower who just opened Maxwell Trading, plus chef and TikTok star Jacob Potashnick who's planning to open Feld in Chicago. Then, Louisa gives us the rundown on Roscas, and what she's hoping for King Cake season.

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Threads @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments: "Hey Good Lookin'" by Hank Williams

"I Can See Clearly Now" by Johnny Nash

Episode 127: Zooey Deschanel, Mike Sula, Malört

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica and Louisa talk about the holidays, health, and drinks! Monica interviews Zooey Deschanel about her health app. Monica attends the 90th anniversary party for Malört and talks to our pal and James Beard award winning writer and pop-up maestro Mike Sula about his secret homemade drink made with wormwood. Finally, Louisa shares her experience at CosMc's, the futuristic new concept from McDonald's.

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Threads @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"Awake" by Mader (from the original soundtrack for Eat Drink Man Woman)

"Ridin' in My Car" by She & Him

Episode 126: Kevin Pang, Michele Norris, power foods

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica and Louisa catch up after getting stuffed at Thanksgiving. Monica talks to America's Test Kitchen's Kevin Pang about his new book co-written with his dad, "A Very Chinese Cookbook: 100 Recipes From China And Not China (But Still Really Chinese)." Then, Monica chats with Emmy and Peabody award-winning journalist Michele Norris about her new podcast "Your Mama's Kitchen." Lastly, nutritionist and doctor Michael Crupain tells Monica about his new book "The Power Five Essential Foods For Optimum Health."

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Threads @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"LUNCH" by My Little Airport

"詩歌舞街" by My Little Airport

"Family Reunion" by Jill Scott

"Look At Them Beans" by Johnny Cash

Episode 125: Migrants, Immigrants and Spirits

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 23:29:20 +0000

This week, Monica and Louisa talk about migrants, immigrants, and spirits. Monica talks to Laura Tillman about her experience writing her latest book "The Migrant Chef: The Life and Times of Lalo García." Plus, Monica talks to award-winning author Grace Lin about her new bestselling book "Chinese Menu: The History, Myths, and Legends Behind Your Favorite Foods." Finally, Louisa dares us to taste "Flaming Flamers"...but will we eat it?

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chicagotribune.com/chewingpodcast

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Threads @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

"Piensa en mi" by Los Poetas de la Guitarra

"Your Dystopic Creation Doesn't Fear You" by Deerhoof (ft. Awkwafina)

Episode 124: Italian Village, Austin neighborhood, bone conduction lollipops

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

The ladies are back from summer break and ready for autumn! This week, Monica and Louisa share their Midwestern Adventures. Monica visits a South Side baseball chef, a Michigan jerky butcher, and a legendary Italian restaurant owner! Then, Louisa visits a West Side chef turned farmers market manager in the historic Austin neighborhood! The ladies finally test out the bone conduction lollipops from the Sweets and Snacks Expo, but will they eat it?

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Twitter @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter, Twitter @monicaeng

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments:

Cibo Matto - Beef Jerky

White Sox Fight Song: "Lets Go, Go Go White Sox"

Lou Monte - Che La Luna Mezzo Mare

Dean Martin - Sway

Nat King Cole - L-O-V-E (Italian Version)

Nina Simone - I Want A Little Sugar In My Bowl

Episode 123: Beard drama, France mama, "The Bear" trauma

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0000

This week, we talk about the big drama behind the scenes of the James Beard awards, and if Monica won after SIX nominations this year! Then, she goes back to France to visit her football player son and brings back an encore madcap recap. Have you watched The Bear? We talk about whether or not we've watched the hit Chicago-based streaming series, and why. Finally, Louisa brings a haul from the Sweets & Snacks Expo, for "Will She Eat It" in this season finale episode. We'll be back around Labor Day. Have a great summer!

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Twitter @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter, Twitter @monicaeng

Links:

Order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

Music:

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments: "La noyée" by Yann Tiersen, "Marseille" by Ahmad Jamal, feat. Abd Al Malik, "Via Chicago" by Wilco

Episode 122: Top chef Stephanie Izard, puppy chow cake, viral Costco casserole

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 01 May 2023 05:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica tells us about her whirlwind trip to Europe. Back in Chicago, Monica and Louisa visit Stephanie Izard's new Little Goat Diner. Then, Monica learns about puppy chow cake from pastry chef Leigh Omilinsky at Daisies. Lastly, Louisa gets influenced to buy Chinese casseroles from Costco, but Will They Eat It?

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Twitter @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter, Twitter @monicaeng

Links

Pre-order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

*Discount code S23UIP

Music

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments: "Chicago at Night" by Spoon, "This Year" by The Mountain Goats

Episode 121: Al's Beef Chicago cheesesteak, spring break food

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000

This week, we talk spring break and Chicago cheesesteaks. Louisa talks to Al's Beef owner Chris Pacelli about Chicago cheesesteaks. Then, Monica shares her plans to visit her son in France, and our producer Iris shares her first trip to San Francisco's Chinatown. Finally, Monica dares Louisa and Iris to eat salmon skin and salted egg chips from Singapore, but Will They Eat It?

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Twitter @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter, Twitter @monicaeng

Links

Pre-order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites

*Discount code S23UIP

Music

Theme music: "Zhong Nan Hai" by Carsick Cars

Outro music: "15 Minutes Older" by Carsick Cars

Segments: "Baby What A Big Surprise" by Chicago, "Bag Lady" by Erykah Badu

Episode 120: American French food, Korean Chinese restaurants, expiration dates

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica and Louisa talk about Americans abroad! First, Monica has a conversation with her son about what he's eating in France. In contrast, she talks to restaurateur Kevin Boehm about bringing French food to Chicago. Then, Monica talks to video game and filmmaker Josh Tsui about Korean Chinese food in LA and Chicago. Finally, in what may now become a tradition, Louisa dares Monica and Iris to eat expired jam, but Will They Eat It?

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Twitter @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter, Twitter @monicaeng

Links

Pre-order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites *Discount code S23UIP

Music

Theme music: Carsick Cars - Zhong Nan Hai

Outro music: Carsick Cars - 15 Minutes Older

Segments: "Cadeau" by Aya Nakamura ft. Tiakola, "Le Paradis Perdu" by Lucienne Delyle, "Gondry" by Hyukoh, "Ditto" by NewJeans, "Be Sweet" (Korean Version) by Japanese Breakfast feat. So!YoON!

Episode 119: Monica's new book, Do Good Chicken, Niman Ranch

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica tells us about her new book, "Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites," co-written with David Hammond. Then Monica interviews former Obama White House and Chicago restaurant chef Sam Kass about his organization Do Good Chicken that reduces food waste by putting it towards their chickens' diet. Then she talks to Niman Ranch and Mariano's representatives about stocking sustainable pork behind the butcher counter. Finally, Monica shares tomato chips with the ladies, but Will They Eat It?

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Louisa Chu: Insta @louisachu1, Twitter @louisachu
Monica Eng: Insta @monicaengreporter, Twitter @monicaeng

Links:

Pre-order Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites *Discount code S23UIP

David Hammond, LTH Forum: Chicago's Food Chat Community

Do Good Chicken

Axios Chicago

Niman Ranch

Music:

Theme music: Carsick Cars - Zhong Nan Hai

Outro music: Carsick Cars - 15 Minutes Older

Segments: "Chicago Bound Blues" by Bessie Smith, "The Greasy Chicken" by Andrew Williams, "Green Pastures" by Emmylou Harris, "Home Grown Tomatoes" by John Denver

Episode 118: Lunar New Year food and Lexington Betty Smokehouse

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week, we're celebrating Lunar New Year and talking BBQ. We start off by giving some updates on holiday health scares. Then Louisa gets the story behind the Lexington Betty Smokehouse barbecue style. And then the ladies are presented with a spicy Chinese snack that's gone viral and chocolate fortune cookies, but will they eat it?

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Intro Music: Carsick Cars - Zhong Nan Hai

Outro Music: Carsick Cars - 15 Minutes Older

Segment 1 Music: 高爾宣 OSN - Without You 沒了妳

Segment 2 Music: Louis Armstrong - Struttin' With Some Barbecue

YouTube Reference: Cooking Korean Food with @Maangchi

Episode 117: Christkindlmarket, Feld restaurant, Omarcito's Latin Café

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 06:00:00 +0000

This week, we're talking about holiday foods and new chefs. Monica visits the Christkindlmarket to find some fishy treats. Then she talks to TikTok chef Jake Potashnick who has plans to open a sustainable restaurant called Feld in Chicago. Louisa goes behind these scenes of Omarcito's Latin Café to find out more about chef Omar Cadena's family recipes. Finally, Monica shares a spread of sunflower cream cheese, but will they eat it?

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Episode 116: Thanksgiving, Little Fat Boy, Loaf Lounge

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

This week, we're gearing up for Thanksgiving by sharing our traditions (and disasters). Monica talks to Frankie Gaw, aka Little Fat Boy, about his first generation Taiwanese-American cookbook. Plus, she checks in with former Chicago Tribune restaurant critic Paula Camp at her cidery. Lastly, Louisa surprises Monica and Iris with a Thanksgiving pastry from Loaf Lounge.

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First Generation: Recipes from My Taiwanese-American Home by Frankie Gaw aka Little Fat Boy

Carriage House Ciders

Loaf Lounge

Episode 115: Grocery Stores, Beer and Bratwurst Potato Chips

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica explains the big news about the Jewel and Mariano's grocery store merger. She also shares the new grocery report card on antibiotic policies. Then, Louisa and Monica share grocery tips and talk about the politics of grocery store decisions. Plus, the ladies try beer and brat flavored potato chips from...you guessed it...Aldi!

Episode 114: Publican Quality Bread, Historic Pot Pies and Oil-Fried Ghosts

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica concludes her conversation with Oprah's former personal chef Art Smith. Plus, she talks to James Beard award-winning chef Greg Wade about his debut cookbook. Louisa tells us about her search for the woman behind the historic pot pie recipe in Chicago, and then we hear about some delicious ghost stories.

Chewing Extra: Clyde's at Goodman Theater

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 08 Oct 2022 20:02:10 +0000

This week, Monica talks to production director Tyler Jacobson about sandwiches and the behind-the-scenes of the play Clyde's now showing at the Goodman Theater.

Episode 113: Reunion, Art Smith, Maa Maa Dei mooncakes

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 01 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Louisa and Monica are back to report on their summer vacations. Monica talks to Oprah's former personal chef Art Smith, plus, Louisa picks up some street corner mooncakes for the ladies to try.

Episode 112: Summer vacation food, "The Bear" and Italian beef

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This week, it's the season finale where Monica Eng and Louisa Chu get Jeremy Allen White, star of the new Chicago-based show "The Bear," to do a Chicago accent. Plus, Louisa shares her list of the best Italian beef to binge with the show.

Episode 111: James Beard Awards

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This week, Louisa Chu and Monica Eng talk to the big winners of the James Beard Awards...and Louisa has a run-in with security. Plus, Monica finds some delicious treats at a Little Village farmers market, and dares Louisa and their producer to eat preserved eggs. But will they eat it?

Episode 110: Martin Yan, Candy Show

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This week, Monica Eng shares the serendipitous story behind how Martin Yan started his cooking show Yan Can Cook. Louisa Chu regales us with the offerings of the Sweets & Snacks Expo, aka The Candy Show, and presents Monica and Iris with some intense treats. But will they eat it?

Episode 109: Chop Suey and Mushrooms

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 23 May 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Louisa Chu and Monica Eng talk about their trip to the oldest Chinese restaurant in Chicago, Orange Garden, and reveal who bought their classic old neon sign. Plus, a conversation about the nation's first Chinese-American TV chef Joyce Chen, and another close encounter with COVID.

Episode 108: Beards, Bakeries, and Backyard Gardens

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 09 May 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Louisa Chu got her first James Beard award nomination, so co-host Monica Eng reveals secrets as a five-time nominee and formers Beards judge. Then Louisa shares behind the scenes moments on the last day at Dinkel's Bakery, closed after 100 years in Chicago. And Monica shares tips on getting compost ready for planting season.

Episode 107: Cheesy and Jelly

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Louisa Chu went to Philadelphia so talks Philly cheesesteaks, and the cherry pepper bars at Pat's and Geno's. Then she dares co-host Monica Eng and producer Iris Lin to taste taco truck jellybeans, but Will They Eat Them?

Episode 106: Covid and Spice Bags

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host talks about her trip to Ireland, where she got unlucky with COVID-19. Then co-host Louisa Chu explains how to have The Talk, and set boundaries with COVID prevention. And Monica shares her visits to Chinese-Irish fast food shops, and their specialty called spice bags.

Episode 105: Pie, Women's History and Future

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-hosts Louisa Chu and Monica Eng talk favorite pies, including Mrs. Hering's 1890 chicken pot pie at The Walnut Room in Chicago for Women's History Month. Then Louisa dares Monica and their producer Iris Lin to taste three-cup lion's mane mushroom, inspired by sanbeiji or three-cup chicken, from Veggie House, the first dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurant in Chinatown.

Episode 104: Pandemic-versary Number Two

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-hosts Louisa Chu and Monica Eng talk about what they're doing, or not doing, anymore when it comes to eating out on the second anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic. Then Louisa dares Monica and their producer Iris Lin Iris to taste blood pudding pizza from Irish-inspired bar and restaurant The Wolfhound in Chicago, but Will They Eat It?

Episode 103: Nom Nom New Year Food

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks to New York Times best-selling cookbook author Michelle Tam about "Nom Nom Paleo," co-written with Henry Fong. Then co-host Louisa Chu gets a galette des rois from Floriole bakery in Chicago, the seasonal French pastry fit for queens. Then Louisa dares Monica to taste snail noodles, the viral sensation from China.

Episode 102: How To Eat Like A Better Human

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks to archaeologist, chef, and author Dr. Bill Schindler about his new book "Eat Like a Human." Then co-host Louisa Chu goes to Chicago's most infamous hot dog stand, The Wieners Circle. And Monica meets up with humanitarian, chef, and old friend of Chewing, José Andrés.

Episode 101: The Korean Vegan, Owamni by The Sioux Chef

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng visits TikTok star The Korean Vegan aka Joanne Lee Molinaro to talk about her debut bestselling cookbook "The Korean Vegan Cookbook: Reflections and Recipes from Omma's Kitchen."

Then co-host Louisa Chu goes to Owamni by The Sioux Chef restaurant in Minnesota to talk to founders Dana Thompson and Sean Sherman about Indigenous food and decolonized ingredients.

And Louisa brings Monica Owamni's maple crickets, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 100: Catherine Lambrecht, Abra Berens, County Fair Foods

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 07 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Episode 99: Chinese Zongzi, Peter Engler, Krakatoa Hot Chips

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 24 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Episode 98: Steve Dolinsky, Paula Camp, 80s Restaurants

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-hosts Louisa Chu and Monica Eng talk to hungry hound Steve Dolinsky, author of the upcoming book "The Ultimate Chicago Pizza Guide: A History of Squares & Slices in the Windy City." Then they're joined by former Chicago Tribune restaurant critic, now a cider maker / owner of Carriage House Ciders and trans woman, Paula Camp. Then they play a pop food quiz on 80s restaurants in Chicago.

Episode 97: Steven Raichlen, Top Chef Gregory Gourdet, giardiniera

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 12 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks about chef Gregory Gourdet, author of "Everyone's Table: Global Recipes for Modern Health." Then from the live Twitch stream, she and co-host Louisa Chu talk to barbecue guru Steven Raichlen about his new book "How to Grill Vegetables: The New Bible for Barbecuing Vegetables Over Live Fire." Then Monica dares Louisa to eat giardiniera straight out of the jar, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 96: Buona Beefless, Jacoby Cochran, Barry Estabrook, Chicago all-in-one hot dog sauce

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 22 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-hosts Louisa Chu and Monica Eng talk to Jimmy Buona about the new Italian Beefless sandwich, City Cast Chicago host Jacoby Cochran about South Side vegan food, author Barry Estabrook about his new book "Just Eat: One Reporter's Quest for a Weight-Loss Regimen that Works," and Big Fork founder Lance Avery about his new Chicago Sauce that blends all the toppings of a Chicago-style hot dog into one bottle.

Episode 95: Tomato Bliss, Regional hot dogs, Coney sauces

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 01 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks to Tomato Bliss. Then from the Chewing Twitch Monica and co-host Louisa Chu talk hot dogs with Chicago Tribune food reporter Nick Kindelsperger and author / Coney dog expert T.M. Goeglein. And Monica dares Louisa to taste beef heart hot dog Coney sauces, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 94: New Bourdain book, Soom Foods tahini, My Halal Kitchen

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sun, 25 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Louisa Chu talks to Anthony Bourdain's co-author Laurie Woolever about their new book "World Travel: An Irreverent Guide." Then co-host Monica Eng talks tahini and tahina with Soom Foods co-founder Amy Titleman. And from the Chewing Twitch stream Yvonne Maffei of My Halal Kitchen about Ramadan recipes and Dr. Brenda Rivera Garcia of Americares about a TikTok mask dance campaign.

Episode 93: Crate Free USA, Maui Nui Venison, Brown Sugar Bakery

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sun, 18 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks to Crate Free USA founder Jessica Chipkin about reducing the suffering of animals on factory farms. Then Monica talks to Maui Nui Venison founder Jake Muise about wild Hawaiian deer. And she and co-host Louisa Chu talk to Brown Sugar Bakery founder Stephanie Hart about Vice President Kamala Harris' visit to her shop in Chicago and the border controversy that followed.

Episode 92: LA's Friends & Family, Chicago's Carver 47, CBD 'Chilli Crisp'

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sun, 28 Mar 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks to chef Roxana Jullapat, owner of Friends & Family bakery in Los Angeles, about her new book "Mother Grains: Recipes for the Grain Revolution." Then Monica talks to chef Lizz Wright and owner Monica Haslip of Carver 47 food and wellness market on the South Side of Chicago. Then Louisa Chu dares her podcast co-host to try CBD "Chilli Crisp" by Co-op Sauce, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 91: Emily Nunn, Dennis Lee, Oreo Spam burger

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 13 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks to author Emily Nunn about her Substack newsletter The Department of Salad. Then Monica talks to food writer Dennis Lee about his Substack newsletter Food is Stupid. Plus Monica dares co-host Louisa Chu to taste an Oreo Spam burger, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 90: MacArthur's cafeteria, critic critique, alcohol-free IPA, Korean snack

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Louisa Chu talks with MacArthur's cafeteria owner Mac Alexander for her Chicago Tribune 8-part series on Black-owned restaurants after a year of pandemic, protests, and politics. Then Louisa and co-host Monica Eng critique the role of restaurant critic in Chicago. Plus Monica debuts a new game (with Big Drop alcohol-free IPA beer) that she calls Can You Guess? Finally she dares Louisa to try a grilled Korean macaroni pumpkin snack, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 89: Chefs Zoe Schor and Beverly Kim, Flamin' Hot mac and cheese

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Louisa Chu talks with chef Zoe Schor about why she has not reopened for indoor or outdoor dining yet in Chicago. Co-host Monica Eng talks with Top Chef Beverly Kim and Asian American restaurateurs Rohini Dey, Mary Nguyen Aregoni, and Geri Guidote Hernandez about how to cope during COVID. Monica dares Louisa with Flamin' Hot mac and cheese, but Will She Eat it?

Episode 88: "Eat Like You Give a Fork," Village Farmstand, Chinese hot water

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 23 Jan 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks to Mareya Ibrahim, author of "Eat Like You Give a Fork: The Real Dish on Eating to Thrive." Plus Monica checks in with filmmaker / grocer Matt Wechsler of Village Farmstand in Evanston near Chicago. Then co-host Louisa Chu dares her to drink hot water, the Chinese go-to beverage, but Will She Drink It?

Episode 87: Tulip Tree Gardens, Sleep Medicine, Hank Shaw, and Ida's Artisan Ice Cream

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Thu, 24 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks to CBD Tulip Tree Gardens founders Rachael and Jesse Smedberg and tries their CBN oil in her quest for a peaceful pandemic night's sleep.

Then Monica consults to sleep doctors at the Northwestern Medicine Center for Circadian & Sleep Medicine.

Plus she asks chef and author Hank Shaw about how to get her goose cooked.

Finally Monica dares co-host Louisa Chu and producer Iris Lin to taste CBD ice cream from Ida's Artisan Ice Cream, but Will They Eat It?

Episode 86: Mockmill, Man in the Kitchen, and Vite Ramen

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng tries home grain mill Mockmill.

Then Monica talks to Man in the Kitchen founder Steve Katz.

And she dares co-host Louisa Chu to taste self-described "nutritious" Vite Ramen, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 85: gardening activist Nicole Virgil, Tasting India, and Baiju

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sun, 22 Nov 2020 19:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng visits to gardening activist Nicole Virgil.

Then Monica talks to James Beard grant winning chef Jasmine Sheth about her project Tasting India.

Plus co-host Louisa Chu dares Monica to do shots of baiju for a very special wedding toast to producer Iris Lin, but Will They Drink It?

Episode 84: Leptospirosis, Pizza, and White Rabbit Lay's

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 26 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing co-host Monica Eng shares her story about leptospirosis on the food and health podcast, the deadly disease that killed Louisa Chu's beloved dog Kiba.

Then Monica explains why her favorite pizza was a New York style slice, and Louisa digs deep on Chicago style.

Plus Louisa dares Monica and producer Iris Lin to taste duck neck and White Rabbit flavored potato chips, but Will They Eat It?

Chewing Extra: Free Asian Carp Burgers To Save the World

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 17 Oct 2020 01:47:50 +0000

Chewing Extra: Sleep remedies and CBD honey

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 28 Sep 2020 02:42:03 +0000

In between seasons we're releasing a few bonus interviews. This one deals with Monica's search for a good night sleep. She hopes to find it in the new Kitchen Toke CBD honey and talks to Joline Rivera about it.

Chewing Extra: Harold's Fried Chicken Shack #55 Owner Percy Billings

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 29 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-hosts Louisa Chu and Monica Eng talk about the importance of Harold's Chicken Shack and mild sauce, then Louisa talks to Harold's #55 owner Percy Billings

Episode 83: Farm to Endangered Table, Season Finale

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Wed, 12 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Chef Rick Bayless shares how he and his teams are doing during the coronavirus pandemic with some heartbreaking details. Then Chewing co-host Monica Eng talks about the Goya Foods controversy with Chicago Cultural Alliance director Peter Vega. Plus she talks to the filmmakers behind "Seasons of Change on Henry's Farm." Finally co-host Louisa Chu dares Monica and their podcast producer Iris Lin to taste a seasonal Japanese corn doughnut and CBD coffee, but Will They Eat It?

Episode 82: Chinatown and Pizza Puffs

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 01 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Louisa Chu visits an influential Chinatown basement food court during the pandemic. Co-host Monica Eng uncovers the origin story of the iconic Chicago-invented pizza puff. Then Louisa dares Monica to taste a rancid lardo flavored egg, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 81: Campy Broccoli and Pasta

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 13 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng details a lost interview with broccoli scientist Elizabeth Jeffery. Then Monica talks with fellow watchdog journalist Paul D. Thacker. Plus she visits Tortello pasta shop in Chicago during the before times. Finally co-host Louisa Chu dares her to eat Midwestern mostaccioli at a camp in Wisconsin, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 80: Reopening Your Mouth

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 15:47:07 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Louisa Chu talks to chef and Nobel Peace Prize nominee José Andrés during his visit to Chicago about feeding people worldwide during disasters, the pandemic included. Co-host Monica Eng talks to doctors about safer ways to dine outdoors. Sun Wah BBQ restaurant co-owner Kelly Cheng shares what she'll require any diner to sign before they sit down during COVID. Then Louisa dares Monica and producer Iris Lin to try Japanese delicious sticks, but Will They Eat It?

Episode 79: Flour Power

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 12 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Louisa Chu talks to Old Fashioned Donuts owner Buritt Bulloch about the Chicago pastry institution. Co-host Monica Eng talks to pastry chef Gale Gand about her quarantine cooking series, and chef Aaron Patin shares the possibly rosy new future for restaurants and restaurant workers in dining 2.0. Then Monica dares Louisa to eat a lingzhi mushroom cook, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 78: Great Memorial Day Escape

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 22 May 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-hosts Louisa Chu and Monica Eng talk about the future of restaurants and getting away from it all. First, Monica talks to Chicago chef Carrie Nahabedian, who shares the challenges facing restaurants like her Brindille as they look at reopening or not soon. Then, how do they make those "The Trip to..." movies with Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, and all that food? A producer on the latest film "The Trip to Greece" reveals how. Plus, what are the best milk alternatives and why? The maker of Milkadamia macadamia milk says it's one of the most environmentally friendly versions around. Finally, Monica dares Louisa to drink plant milk, but Will She Drink It?

Episode 77: Potato and sourdough discard recipes plus sustainable seafood

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 08 May 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks sustainable seafood with Walton Family Foundation environment program officer Teresa Ish. Then Eng and co-host Louisa Chu talk home cooking recipes including pandemic pantry potatoes and sourdough discard with Chicago Tribune Food & Dining columnist and cookbook author Jim DeWan. Plus Monica dares Louisa to try tossing potato chips with ketchup, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 76: Farmers Markets & Tortillas

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-host Monica Eng talks about farmers markets, essential businesses during the coronavirus pandemic, with Evanston parks and rec director Lawrence Hemingway. Co-host Louisa Chu reveals why El Milagro was trending in Chicago, and the top 10 corn tortillas. Then Monica and Louisa each find old Chinese candy in their pantries, but Will They Eat It?

Episode 75: Podcast Pantry

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Chewing podcast co-hosts Louisa Chu and Monica clean out the quarantine pantry with producer Iris Lin. They talk about what they are eating, and Monica reveals the danger of overeating her homemade artisan breads these days. Then she talks to scholar Joe Bozeman about the which race has the most sustainable diet and how we can all do better. Finally they dare Monica's teen daughter to eat four month old cheese flavored fish sausage, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 74: Pandemic Pantry, Dan Weissmann

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Louisa Chu and Monica Eng report from the midst of the coronavirus crisis in Chicago on what to eat and how to eat it. Plus how to deal with health care costs from old friend Dan Weissmann of the podcast An Arm and a Leg.

Episode 73: Michael Pollan, David Lebovitz, caffeine and cocktails

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 28 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Michael Pollan talks to old pal Monica about and his new audiobook "Caffeine: How Caffeine Created the Modern World." Then David Lebovitz talks to old pal Louisa about his new book "Drinking French: The Iconic Cocktails, Apéritifs, and Café Traditions of France, with 160 Recipes."

The Legitimacy of Chinese American food extra

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 24 Jan 2020 18:38:24 +0000

Here's an bonus track while we are on break. Enjoy!

Episode 72: Uncle Remus, Chinatown Museum, jook recipes

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 10 Jan 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Louisa Chu talks to 93 year old Uncle Remus Saucy Fried Chicken founder Gus Rickette and daughter / CEO Charmaine Rickette. Monica Eng talks to 85 year old namesake of Chinese-American Museum of Chicago Raymond Lee, and great aunts about jook / congee recipes. Plus Monica dares Louisa to eat German currywurst chips, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 71: Holiday Feasts and Drink

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 21 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +0000

Monica Eng talks about surprising American story behind Italian Christmas Feast of the Seven Fishes with filmmaker Robert Tinnell. Louisa Chu talks about best new book "Last Call: Bartenders on Their Final Drink and the Wisdom and Rituals of Closing Time" with author Brad Thomas Parsons. Louisa and Monica visit world's largest Starbucks with Chicago Malort cocktail, but Will They Drink It?

Episode 70: Thanksgiving & Baking

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Tue, 26 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +0000

Episode 69: Ramen, okonomiyaki, how to shop for Japanese groceries

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Tue, 12 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +0000

Monica Eng visits Mitsuwa Marketplace to learn how to shop for Japanese groceries. Yoshi's Cafe owner Nobuko Katsumura teaches her how to eat ramen. Louisa Chu talks to Gaijin owners about okonomiyaki. Monica dares Louisa to taste cheese flavored fish sausage, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 68: Episode 68: Patel Brothers, Superkhana, Thattu, best sustainable diet

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Louisa Chu visits newest Patel Brothers, the largest Indian grocery chain in North America. Monica Eng talks to a Johns Hopkins researcher about the best diet to save the planet. Louisa learns sweet loves stories behind biscuit desserts at Superkhana International and Thattu. Monica dares her to eat spicy fish roe potato chips, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 67: Carlos Gaytan, Micki Maynard, Penny Pollack

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 12 Oct 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Memories and the Way We Ate: Mexican-American Top Chef Carlos Gaytan reveals story behind new French-Mexican restaurant Tzuco in Chicago. NPR / NYT alum journalist Micki Maynard shares over dim sum how to interview family. Chicago magazine former dining editor Penny Pollack talks about her life in food. Louisa Chu dares Monica Eng to try Parle-G biscuits, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 66: Mushrooms, Mooncakes, and Nightcaps

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Chicago woodsman Brendan Fox talks organic gardening and mushrooms. The Violet Hour owner and mixologist Toby Maloney and cocktails author Kara Newman to talk nightcaps. Peninsula chef Elmo Han talks mooncakes. Louisa dares Monica to eat vegetarian mooncakes from Shanghai but Will She Eat It?

Episode 65: Carb-O-Rama with bread, ramen, and chips

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 05:00:00 +0000

James Beard award winning baker Greg Wade at Publican Quality Bread. "Let's Make Ramen" authors Hugh Amano and Sarah Becan. Monica offers Louisa cucumber flavor potato chips, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 64: Whiskey, cider, and ketchup Doritos

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Episode 63: Meat, Mead, and a West Side Licking Story

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 17:03:27 +0000

Louisa talks to The Licking restaurant co-founder Elric "E-Class" Prince on the West Side of Chicago. Monica learns about a modern meat raffle and visits an award-winning meadery.

Episode 62: Girls of Summer: Lem's Bar-B-Q, Pretty Cool Ice Cream, Terzo Piano

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Sat, 29 Jun 2019 22:44:19 +0000

Episode 61: Korean chefs Beverly Kim, Bill Kim, and more

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 10 Jun 2019 22:25:36 +0000

Louisa visits award-winning Korean restaurant San Soo Gab San to talk to restaurateur Christopher Kim. Monica talks to James Beard winning chefs Beverly Kim and Johnny Clark of Parachute restaurant. Plus chef and author Bill Kim attends the Greater Chicago Food Depository chef training graduation and Sophie Kim explains Korean dining etiquette.

Episode 60: Ruth Reichl, easy weeknight dinners, bibimbap pie

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 24 May 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Louisa talks to Gourmet editor and author Ruth Reichl. Monica gets easy weeknight dinners ideas on James Beard red carpet. Bibimbap pie, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 59: Pizza and Ship Shape

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 06:00:00 +0000

Episode 58: Notes From Abroad...Or Two Broads!

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 06:00:00 +0000

Louisa visits iconic Italian-American restaurant Sabatino's on their last night. Monica learns about a dinner called La Bestia, bringing awareness to contributions of immigrants. Plus she talks to a German woman living in London about the secrets of Aldi. Then Monica dares Louisa and Iris to eat Russian dried fish, but Will They Eat It?

Episode 57: Best and Worst of the Year

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 28 Dec 2018 06:00:00 +0000

Episode 56: Wait Weight Cheesecake

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 14 Dec 2018 06:00:00 +0000

Episode 55: Daring Food Do-Gooders

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Wed, 28 Nov 2018 06:00:00 +0000

Episode 54: All Awesome Ladies

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Wed, 14 Nov 2018 06:00:00 +0000

Episode 53: All Chefs Great and Small

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Louisa sits down with Noma chefs Rene Redzepi and David Zilber about "The Noma Guide to Fermentation." Then Monica chats up chef Marcus Samuelsson about cooking for presidents, and MasterChef Junior chef Evan Robinson about going to Slow Food Terra Madre. Plus Louisa dares Monica's resident budding chef Matteo to eat her special super spicy ramen but Will He Eat It?

Episode 52: Bao and Boom

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Pixar "Bao" director Domee Shi and producer Becky Neiman-Cobb talk about the story behind the dark dumpling short film. Monica investigates an exploding watermelon gene, then breast milk with "Like a Mother" author Angela Garbes. Plus Louisa offers a duck fat maple latte but Will She Drink It?

Episode 51: Cool Smut and Moon Cakes

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Episode 50: What's Your Beef?

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Tue, 11 Sep 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Episode 49: Self Care Through Food

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Episode 48: LIT Fest and Live

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 25 Jun 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Episode 47: Real Men and Food

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Monica talks to Real Men Cook about their legendary Father's Day event in Chicago's black community. Then she and Louisa talk to Obama chef and food policy adviser Sam Kass about his new cookbook "Eat a Little Better: Great Flavor, Good Health, Better World." Plus Monica talks to humorist John Hodgman about his book "Vacationland: True Stories from Painful Beaches." Then Louisa dares her to taste stink bug and dirty dishwater Jelly Belly jelly beans, but Will She Eat It?

Episode 46: Big Stars with Zooey Deschanel, Jose Andres, and more

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 28 May 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Episode 45: FEMA junk food, foraging, and kids that cook better than you

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 14 May 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Episode 44: Kimbal Musk, Beyond Meat, Lifeway Kefir

chewing@louisachu.com (Louisa Chu & Monica Eng) — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Louisa talks to tech and food entrepreneur Kimbal Musk. Then she and Monica talk to Lifeway CEO and "The Kefir Cookbook" author Julie Smolansky. Plus new Beyond Meat sausages and head cheese lunch meat, but Will They Eat It?