Food Network Obsessed

Carson Kressley talks about his favorite childhood food memories, including Pennsylvania Dutch traditions and his first word being “fries.” Carson reminisces on his first Food Network appearance on Worst Cooks in America, where he learned essential cooking techniques like cutting an onion and spatchcocking a chicken, and how his experiences there helped him grow more confident in the kitchen. He reflects on his evolving relationship with cooking, highlighting how Food Network shows have expanded his culinary knowledge and inspired his creative approach in the kitchen. Carson recounts hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, such as bonding with Bobby Flay over a dunking booth and enjoying mouthwatering meals at hidden gems during filming. He talks about his friendship with Bobby, which started two decades ago and has grown through shared experiences both on and off screen. Carson offers tips for hosting stylish yet stress-free holiday parties, recommending crowd-pleasing menus like KFC chicken tenders with homemade dipping sauces. He teases his upcoming appearance on Beat Bobby Flay: Holiday Throwdown, hinting at over-the-top festivities, surprise gifts, and plenty of holiday cheer.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Carson Kressley on Instagram: HERE Learn More About Beat Bobby Flay: Holiday Throwdown: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James and Oliver Phelps reflect on their journey to landing their iconic roles as Fred and George Weasley, sharing humorous stories about their audition, where they skipped school and traveled hours to join thousands of hopefuls. They reminisce about their on-set antics, from inventing ways to pass the time to unforgettable pranks with co-stars like Rupert Grint, where they’d crack up in scenes and create games to stay entertained. They discuss their excitement in blending the magical world with baking on Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking, describing the unique set with nods to the Great Hall and the awe-inspiring edible creations the contestants bring to life. James and Oliver express a deep appreciation for the bakers' artistic skills, recalling moments of pure wonder at seeing elaborate designs take shape under pressure. They describe how the show’s competitive yet community-driven atmosphere makes it accessible to audiences beyond the Harry Potter fanbase, creating a sense of connection across generations.   Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow James Phelps on Instagram: HERE Follow Oliver Phelps on Instagram: HERE Learn More About Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AEW personalities, Renee Paquette and RJ City, dive into their unique show, Meal and a Match, which combines their passions for wrestling and food. In each episode, a wrestling guest joins them for a meal and a casual evening of watching wrestling highlights, blending commentary, humor, and relatable stories to celebrate the community spirit of wrestling. Renee shares her love for Taco Bell as her road-trip go-to, proudly calling herself a “taco aficionado,” while RJ describes his unconventional coffee ritual—drinking cold brew from a hot coffee cup to elevate his experience. They also spotlight some of their favorite underrated food cities: Renee praises Seattle for its fresh seafood, sushi, and Pike Place Market, while RJ describes Omaha as a hidden gem for those seeking authentic, local flavors.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Renee Paquette on Instagram: HERE Follow Renee Paquette on X: HERE Follow RJ City on Instagram: HERE Follow RJ City on X: HERE Watch Episode One of Meal and a Match: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Carla Hall dishes on her role as a judge on the new baking competition, Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking. She shares her excitement for the show, from working on iconic sets like Platform 9 ¾ and the Great Hall to collaborating with hosts and former Harry Potter actors. She describes the high-energy atmosphere, where self-taught and professional bakers alike create awe-inspiring structures that embody the spirit of the wizarding world. Carla discusses the unique challenges, including balancing intricate visuals with delicious flavors, and shares her approach to judging with co-judge Jozef Youssef, whose shared life parallels fostered an instant bond. Alongside her tales of magical sets and wardrobe, Carla reveals her admiration for the incredible details of the sets and props, from enchanted forests to floating candles. She also reflects on embracing the unexpected in her own life, fueling her own magic and creativity.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Carla Hall on Instagram: HERE Learn More About Halloween Baking Championship: HERE Learn More About Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bobby Flay discusses how various forms of media, from films like The Color of Money to shows like Punk'd, have sparked creative ideas for his popular Food Network hit shows. He elaborates on his passion for French cuisine and how his experiences traveling through Europe, along with his New York roots, have shaped the menu and atmosphere of his latest restaurant, Brasserie B in Las Vegas. The iconic chef highlights his dedication to using only the freshest, high-quality ingredients, even dedicating an entire section of the kitchen solely to making the perfect French fries. Bobby shares how his deep connection with his daughter Sophie has influenced his approach to social media, and how working with younger influencers keeps him engaged with the fast-paced changes in the food industry. He shares details about his latest cookbook, Bobby Flay: Chapter One, a coffee table book featuring 100 of his most meaningful recipes. Bobby explains why this project is particularly special, detailing the careful curation of recipes and his collaboration with top-tier talent to bring this personal collection to life.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Bobby Flay on Instagram: HERE Follow Bobby Flay on TikTok: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katie Lee Biegel discusses her journey on The Kitchen, which is now on its 37th season, and how the show has shaped her both personally and professionally. She reflects on the deep connection with her co-hosts, describing the family-like atmosphere and chemistry that has contributed to the show's success. The chef explains her creative process for developing new recipes and dishes, particularly her focus on comfort food balanced with seasonal ingredients. Katie teases upcoming episodes of The Kitchen, revealing seasonal comfort foods and exciting new dishes like miso maple roasted cabbage and sweet tea-brined oven-fried chicken. She discusses her latest project, the podcast All on the Table, emphasizing her passion for connecting with people through food. Katie highlights a memorable interview with Bobby Flay, where they explored personal food memories and the role food plays in bringing people together. She dishes on how becoming a mom has influenced her approach to cooking, tailoring meals to her daughter’s tastes while keeping family traditions alive.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Katie Lee Biegel on Instagram: HERE Learn More About The Kitchen: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chris Valdes reflects on his upbringing, where food played a central role in his Cuban family, and how his mother’s teachings deeply shaped his cooking style. He recalls early mornings spent picking up fresh Cuban bread for their family restaurant and the nostalgic comfort of dishes like the Cuban steak sandwich. Chris discusses key creations, such as his Miami-inspired Spanish tortilla and that same steak sandwich, both of which hold personal significance. He offers insights into his creative process, balancing tradition with experimentation, and shares practical cooking tips, including how to master the tricky tortilla flip. Chris touches on the profound influence of his culinary heroes, particularly his mother and Chef Emeril Lagass, and how they helped mold his career. The chef opens up about the challenges of launching a catering business at just 19, from financial hurdles to personal doubts, and provides advice to young entrepreneurs about the importance of perseverance and passion. The Miami native dishes on his favorite local food spots, showcasing the city’s vibrant food culture.  988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: [HERE]  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE  Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE  Follow Chris Valdes on Instagram: HERE  Learn More About Dig In With: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ruth Reichl reflects on receiving the James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award with gratitude, noting how it has motivated her to support young journalists. She recounts her diverse food experiences growing up in New York City and Montreal, including visits to her classmates’ homes, which exposed her to various cultural cuisines. Ruth reminisces on her mother's unconventional approach to cooking which led Ruth to begin cooking at a young age. She discusses how food television has transformed American food culture, creating a new generation that is passionate about cooking and ingredients. The food critic shares her experience at one restaurant, where she went undercover and received vastly different levels of service depending on her appearance, highlighting the biases in the dining industry. Ruth also expresses her love for visiting food markets, explaining how they provide a more authentic glimpse into a culture than restaurants. She recounts one of her most unusual meals, involving silkworm larva in Laos, and the memorable challenges of eating unfamiliar ingredients. Ruth discusses her documentary Food and Country, filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, which captures the struggles of farmers, fishermen, and ranchers. The writer emphasizes that her goal for this project is to raise awareness about the challenges of producing nutritious food in America and stresses the need for policy change to support the country's food system.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE  Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Bennett returns to discuss his whirlwind year that saw him achieve a lifelong dream - his Broadway debut as Sir Robin in Spamalot. He opens up about the electrifying experience of stepping into the world of Monty Python, performing hilarious and beloved scenes from Monty Python on the Broadway stage. Jonathan shares how surreal it was to bring such iconic comedy to life, while also reflecting on the challenges of joining an already-established cast and the thrill of putting his own comedic twist on the character. The host of Halloween Wars teases what fans can expect from the new season of the fan-favorite competition show. He praises the hard work of the show’s producers in keeping the format fresh while staying true to the spirit of the competition. Jonathan pitches his dream Halloween Wars challenge: having the teams transform his past movie roles—from Mean Girls to his Hallmark holiday films—into nightmarish horror scenes. He shares some of his personal Halloween traditions, including his love for decorating with pumpkins and watching horror movies.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE  Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE  Follow Jonathan Bennett on Instagram: HERE  Follow Jonathan Bennett on TikTok: HERE  Learn More About Halloween Wars: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Damaris Phillips reflects on how her Southern and Midwestern roots shaped her culinary style, with family playing a key role in her passion for food. She reminisces about learning to cook biscuits with her grandmother, revealing why biscuits and gravy remain her ultimate comfort food. Damaris shares her creative approach to hosting Kentucky Derby events with fun, themed outfits, like "Clown Couture" and "Animal Print Power Clash." As a passionate advocate for female friendships, she opens up about the importance of girls' trips and how her bond with fellow Food Network Star contestant Nikki Dinki blossomed into a lifelong friendship. The chef discusses her husband’s influence on her vegetarian cookbook, Southern Girl Meets Vegetarian Boy, and shares stories from her time on Food Network Star, where Bobby Flay became a mentor and friend. She teases the new all-star season of Outrageous Pumpkins, where former contestants face off in intricate pumpkin carving challenges. Damaris touches on her love for fall traditions, including her tips for hosting the perfect autumn gathering.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE  Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE  Follow Damaris Phillips on Instagram: HERE  Learn More About Outrageous Pumpkins: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chef Jonathon Sawyer shares his journey from engineering school to a celebrated culinary star, explaining how a backhanded compliment from a tough chef unexpectedly ignited his passion for cooking. He reflects on his early days as a rookie in the kitchen and memorable moments in culinary competitions, including a loss on Iron Chef America that still lingers in his mind. Jonathon offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his Chicago hotspot, Kindling, where a striking 13-foot wood hearth takes center stage. He talks about some of his more unconventional inspirations, like his famous wood-fired quesadilla inspired by late-night Taco Bell cravings, and his unique foraging adventures, including a roadside stop to marvel at a non-edible green parasol mushroom. The chef explains why wood-fired cooking might be the "sixth taste bud" that connects people to their primal love for flame-grilled flavors. Jonathon opens up about his journey to sobriety and how fatherhood has profoundly shaped his approach to mentoring young chefs and fostering creativity in the kitchen.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Jonathon Sawyer on Instagram: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Erica Barrett, winner of the fifth season of BBQ Brawl, opens up about her unexpected path to the competition, taking on the challenge despite the recent loss of her grandmother. She humorously recalls sprinting toward Bobby Flay when he called her name, comparing it to a schoolyard game where no one wants to be picked last. Erica dishes on more behind-the-scenes moments, including her almost burning her legs with hand warmers hidden in her pockets during the surprisingly cold Texas finale. The Alabama native discusses her deep Southern pride and how it shapes her culinary style, from her signature peach-infused barbecue sauce to her secret weapon, Alabama white sauce. She paints a vivid picture of what it means to be a Southern girl, from the joy of walking barefoot in the grass to embracing the relaxed rhythm of rural life. Erica dives into her entrepreneurial ventures, from her trailblazing Dough Boy Pizza concept—a tech-driven pizzeria with no cashiers or vent hoods—to her passion for creating unique food products. The chef reflects on her commitment to uplifting other black food entrepreneurs, sharing stories of how she has helped others bring their culinary dreams to life.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE   Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE  Follow Erica Barrett on Instagram: HERE  Learn More About BBQ Brawl: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Food Network Obsessed is back with more episodes. Each week, host Jaymee Sire sits down with your favorite chefs, food influencers and Food Network personalities to dish on all things delicious in the food world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chef Brooke Williamson shares how she became one of Bobby Flay's titans on Bobby’s Triple Threat, describing the intense yet authentic atmosphere of the show and reflecting on memorable moments. She discusses the dynamics among fellow titans Michael Voltaggio and Tiffany Derry, highlighting their growing camaraderie and mutual support. Brooke delves into her role as a judge on BBQ Brawl, where she admires the barbecue chefs' skill and dedication and notes the unique team dynamics this season. She shares her excitement over her highly anticipated cookbook, Sunkissed Cooking, which emphasizes produce-forward dishes inspired by her upbringing in Los Angeles. Brooke opens up about the challenges of writing her cookbook, highlighting the lengthy process of recipe writing, testing, and editing. The chef shares her struggle with the meticulousness required, contrasting it with her usual instinctive cooking style, but expresses pride in the final product.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Brooke Williamson on Instagram: HERE Follow Brooke Williamson on Twitter: HERE Learn More About Bobby’s Triple Threat: HERE Learn More About BBQ Brawl: HERE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chef Brittney "Stikxz" Williams delves into the roots of her nickname, “Chef Stikxz,” tracing it back to her childhood. She discusses how her vibrant Jamaican heritage serves as the cornerstone of her culinary creations. She recounts a pivotal moment during her college years, where her trajectory shifted from sports management to culinary arts, underscoring the profound impact of food in fostering connection. Stikxz offers a glimpse into her initial impressions of the Ciao House hosts, Alex Guarnaschelli and Gabe Bertaccini, noting their blend of nurturing support and disciplined guidance. She intricately describes her approach to melding Jamaican and Italian flavors on the show, drawing upon her deep understanding of both cultures' culinary traditions and techniques. The chef reflects on her immersive pasta-making sessions with authentic Italian nonnas, emphasizing the transformative power of slowing down and fully immersing oneself in the culinary process. Brittney offers insights into her catering enterprise, BWC Catering, unveiling her aspirations for dream collaborations and forthcoming projects.  Follow Food Network on InstagramFollow Jaymee Sire on InstagramFollow Brittney "Stikxz" Williams on Instagram Learn More About Ciao House Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Viet Pham delves into his culinary journey, highlighting the competitive spirit that has driven his success in numerous Food Network competitions, including triumphing over Bobby Flay three times. He discusses his strategic move from fine dining to a fast-casual concept, emphasizing the scalability and broader appeal of his hot chicken. Viet shares his deep connection to fried chicken, rooted in his childhood as an immigrant in America, and how he perfected his recipe by incorporating fine dining techniques and Vietnamese flavors, such as fish sauce. He dishes on the dynamics of running Pretty Bird with his wife, Alexis, and the challenges and rewards of their partnership. The chef reflects on the honor of sharing his story on a national stage, aiming to inspire other chefs grappling with cultural identity. He reveals the secret to making great fried chicken, blending flour and starch for the perfect crunch and crispness.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodnetwork   Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaymeesire  Follow Viet Pham on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefvietpham/?hl=en  Follow Viet Pham on Twitter: https://x.com/chefvietpham?lang=en  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alex Guarnaschelli returns to share her excitement about the upcoming season of Ciao House, set in the picturesque region of Puglia, Italy. She discusses her dynamic with co-host Gabe Bertaccini and contrasts Puglia's distinct culinary landscape with that of Tuscany from the first season. Guarnaschelli praises the villa's rich array of local ingredients, emphasizing the authenticity and flavor they bring to the show. She candidly addresses the contestants' unpredictable nature and the intense, emotional atmosphere of the competition, highlighting the playful and supportive relationship she shares with Bertaccini, which adds depth to the show's narrative. The chef delves into her experience hosting Supermarket Stakeout, where she thrives on engaging with participants and adapting to unpredictable ingredients. Guarnaschelli also talks about her newest cookbook, Cook It Up, co-authored with her daughter Ava, emphasizing their collaborative cooking adventures and the inclusion of recipes that hold special significance in their family life.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodnetwork   Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaymeesire  Follow Alex Guarnaschelli on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guarnaschelli/  Follow Alex Guarnaschelli on Twitter: https://x.com/guarnaschelli  Learn More About Ciao House: https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/ciao-house  Learn More About Supermarket Stakeout: https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/supermarket-stakeout  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marcel Vigneron reflects on his victory in the first season of 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing, discussing the emotional journey and his strong motivation to win the prize money for his mother's cochlear implant surgery. He offers behind-the-scenes insights, including his strategic dish planning and the camaraderie with fellow contestants. Marcel highlights the simplicity challenge as the most difficult, underscoring the importance of humility in a chef's success. He emphasizes valuing hard work, teamwork, and a positive attitude over raw talent in his staff, crediting life experiences and mistakes as crucial to his growth as a chef. He mentions that his staff at Lemon Grove were thrilled to watch him on the show and even showcased his competition dishes as specials. The chef shares his recent experience on Selena + Restaurant, where Selena Gomez impressed by successfully creating a lemon frozen yogurt dish. Marcel outlines his future plans, which include dedicating more time to his restaurants, possibly taking on more roles as a judge in cooking competitions, and finally embarking on the creation of his long-overdue cookbook.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodnetwork   Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaymeesire  Follow Marcel Vigneron on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcelvigneron/?hl=en  Follow Marcel Vigneron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarcelVigneron  Learn More About 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing: https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/24-in-24-last-chef-standing  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jesse Palmer, recently surprised to find himself as a question on Jeopardy, humbly rates his trivia knowledge at a modest six. He joyously discusses the transformative experience of becoming a new dad to his daughter, Ella, expressing heartfelt admiration for his wife Emily and the meticulous preparations they made for parenthood. Fondly reminiscing on cherished summer memories from his Canadian upbringing, Jesse eagerly anticipates the upcoming season with plans for unforgettable family adventures. Offering behind-the-scenes insights into filming Summer Baking Championship, Jesse delights in sharing anecdotes about the judges' distinct personalities and preferences, including Duff Goldman's infamous distaste for raspberry seeds. The TV personality hints at the thrilling challenges viewers can expect, teasing a special episode inspired by Shark Week and sharing his own exhilarating encounters swimming among the aquatic animals.  Follow Food Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodnetwork   Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaymeesire  Follow Jesse Palmer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessepalmer/  Follow Jesse Palmer on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessePalmerTV  Learn More About Summer Baking Championship: https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/summer-baking-championship  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pastry chef Stephanie Boswell reflects on her recent hosting role on Food Network's Next Baking Master: Paris. She delves into the joys and trials of filming in the city's renowned locales and navigating studio kitchens. Alongside co-host chef Ludo Lefebvre, Stephanie infuses the show with a blend of wit and tough love, guiding a diverse set of contestants through the challenges of French-inspired cuisine. Stephanie talks about the exciting companion digital series that equips viewers with recipes and techniques to tackle classic French sweets at home, celebrating both Parisian allure and the craft of pastry-making. She recounts her Parisian escapades, from filming excursions to leisurely city strolls and paints a vivid picture of Paris's allure, from its vibrant markets to its pedestrian-friendly streets. Stephanie gives some Parisian recommendations and gastronomic delights, favoring the likes of beef tartare and steak frites. She reveals her penchant for collecting tattoos at each destination, alongside her recent foray into hand-painting chocolate pianos and his ambitions for crafting chocolate vases.Follow Food Network on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodnetworkFollow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaymeesireFollow Stephanie Boswell on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephanie.boswellLearn More About Next Baking Master: Paris: https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/next-baking-master-paris Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.