United Tastes of America

Listen to the Songs that Inspired the Episode: KENTUCKY PLAYLIST Join Rick K. Jones as he discovers the fascinating history, culture, and culinary traditions of Kentucky in this episode. From legendary songs and historic landmarks to iconic foods and bourbon craftsmanship, learn what makes Kentucky unique and worth exploring. In this episode: The origins and significance of "My Old Kentucky Home" and its connection to Kentucky's history and slavery Kentucky's early exploration, settlement by Daniel Boone, and the state's statehood in 1792 The importance of tobacco, coal, and bourbon in Kentucky’s economy and culture The Kentucky Derby: history, significance, and the tradition of mint juleps in a silver julep cup The story of Colonel Sanders and Kentucky Fried Chicken’s origins in Corbin, Kentucky Iconic Kentucky dishes: Derby Pie, burgoo, barbecue mutton, and the Hot Brown sandwich from Louisville’s Brown Hotel Historic landmarks like Federal Hill and Berea College, including local crafts and souvenirs The influence of Shaker communities and their renowned furniture and seed trade at Shaker Village A musical journey through Kentucky with songs from John Prine, Elvis Presley, Neil Diamond, Loretta Lynn, and bluegrass legends like Bill Monroe Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Celebrating Kentucky’s heritage and culture00:19 - The significance of "My Old Kentucky Home" and its roots in slavery01:21 - Kentucky's frontier history, exploration, and statehood02:17 - Daniel Boone’s pioneering in Kentucky03:13 - Kentucky’s early economy: Tobacco and slavery03:42 - The Appalachian Mountains, Scotch-Irish settlement, and moonshine whiskey04:10 - The Ohio River’s role in Kentucky’s shipping and trade05:04 - The unique limestone water and Kentucky bourbon production05:41 - The bluegrass grass and horse industry, including racing and breeding06:10 - The Kentucky Derby: traditions and experiences07:10 - How to make the perfect mint julep in a silver cup08:26 - The story behind "My Old Kentucky Home" and Federal Hill08:53 - Stephen Foster and the song's history related to slavery09:50 - Federal Hill as a tourist site and the significance of Kentucky’s bourbon trail11:15 - The honor of being a Kentucky Colonel and the state's cuisine12:10 - The story of Colonel Sanders and Kentucky Fried Chicken13:07 - Kentucky's famous foods: bourbon-infused desserts and barbecue mutton14:35 - Kentucky’s unique burgu stew and local chili traditions15:33 - The Hot Brown: Louisville’s iconic dish from the Brown Hotel16:03 - The history of the Brown Hotel and its legendary Hot Brown17:03 - How the hot brown is prepared and served today19:19 - Western Kentucky’s Kentucky barbecue and burgoo stew20:15 - Daniel Boone’s settlement in Berea and local crafts21:08 - The Shaker communities: furniture, seeds, and their unique way of life22:28 - The Kentucky Sampler at Shaker Village: local foods and souvenirs23:27 - Kentucky's musical heritage: from John Prine to bluegrass legends24:56 - Closing remarks and teaser for next week's Tennessee episodeResources & Links: My Old Kentucky Home State Park Bourbon Trail Kentucky Fried Chicken - Official Site Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill Berea College Derby Pie Kentucky Derby Official Site William Monroe "Bill" Monroe and Bluegrass Music Connect with the Host: Rick K Jones - LinkedIn Twitter Join us next week as we journey to Tennessee for more rich stories, music, and food from the Volunteer State!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to Our Companion Playlist: Rhode Island Discovering Rhode Island: A Culinary and Historical JourneyJoin us as we explore the rich history, culture, and cuisine of Rhode Island, the smallest state in the union but packed with flavor, tradition, and stories that date back to the founding of the nation.In this episode: The origins of Rhode Island and Roger Williams's role in advocating for religious freedom Rhode Island’s contributions to American history, including early bans on slavery and involvement in the slave trade The state's industrial rise, immigration waves, and Gilded Age mansions Unique Rhode Island foods: Hot Wieners, Johnny cakes, clam cakes, and various clam chowders Famous Rhode Island dishes influenced by Irish, Portuguese, and Italian communities The story behind iconic restaurants like Aunt Carrie's and their historic significance Top dining spots in Providence, including Al Forno, Camille's, and Odini's Key Topics: Rhode Island’s foundation and early religious pursuits The state's complex involvement in the slave trade and abolition efforts The evolution from colonial times to an industrial hub, and its immigrant influence Cultural impact reflected in its music, landmarks, and culinary traditions Detailed exploration of local dishes and seafood specialties Historic sites and landmarks, including Newport’s summer cottages Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview00:20 - The origins of Rhode Island and Roger Williams’s influence01:41 - Rhode Island’s early stance on slavery in 165202:42 - The French occupation during the Revolutionary War03:10 - Rhode Island’s industrialization and immigrant waves04:39 - The slave trade’s connection with Rhode Island's economy05:54 - The Gilded Age mansions and Newport’s summer cottages06:24 - Music and cultural contributions of Rhode Island08:13 - Unique Rhode Island foods: Hot Wieners, Johnny cakes, square pizza strips09:40 - Rhode Island donuts: Dough Boys and frozen lemonade10:09 - Seafood specialties: Calamari, clam chowder, clam cakes11:09 - Clam chowder varieties and the famous Stuffies12:33 - The story of Aunt Carrie’s and its historic significance13:01 - The origins of Aunt Carrie’s and her family legacy14:00 - The significance of Point Judith for local fishermen15:27 - Aunt Carrie’s legacy and recent centennial celebration16:10 - How Aunt Carrie’s got its name and family involvement today17:34 - Top seafood and Italian restaurants in Providence19:25 - Portuguese influences: Clam dishes, salt cod, and local specialties20:51 - Closing thoughts: Rhode Island as a melting pot of food and historyResources & Links: Aunt Carrie’s Restaurant Rhode Island Clam Cakes & Recipes Al Forno - Providence Camille's - Providence Odinis Portuguese Restaurant - Providence History of Rhode Island Connect with the Host: Rick K. Jones - LinkedIn | Twitter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to Our Companion Playlist: New York Join Rick K. Jones as he explores the fascinating history and diverse culture of New York State, from its colonial roots to its status as a global financial hub. Plus, discover the iconic dishes that make New York cuisine renowned worldwide!In this episode: The early exploration and European discovery of New York, from Giovanni da Verrazzano to Henry Hudson The transformation of New York into a key trading and financial center, including the origins of Wall Street Key moments in New York’s history: Revolutionary War, the Battle of Saratoga, and statehood The impact of immigration waves, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty Major infrastructure projects like the Erie Canal and their economic significance Post-war growth, demographic shifts, and the rise of New York’s cultural scene Unique regional dishes: chicken riggies, Buffalo wings, bagels, cheesecake, and more Famous New York songs and their cultural significance Highlights of iconic New York restaurants and food industry landmarks Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to New York’s historical significance and the golf course restoration project01:31 - Overview of New York’s colonial exploration and early European explorers02:28 - Henry Hudson and the Dutch influence in New York history03:10 - Formation of New Amsterdam and transition to British control in 166404:03 - The rise of New York as a port and financial hub, including the origins of Wall Street04:57 - New York during the Revolutionary War and the Battle of Saratoga’s pivotal role05:51 - Federal Hall and New York’s early role as the nation’s capital06:50 - The Erie Canal and DeWitt Clinton’s vision for connecting waterways07:48 - New York’s contributions during the Civil War and immigration waves08:15 - The construction and significance of the Statue of Liberty08:41 - The boom years of the 1920s, Great Depression, and wartime recovery09:11 - The 1950s: a golden age of baseball and economic growth09:42 - The demographic shift and suburban expansion in the 1960s10:10 - The financial scandals of the 1970s and subsequent revival in the 1980s10:33 - New York’s diversity and cultural melting pot, featuring Queens’ multiculturalism11:23 - Iconic New York songs by Sinatra, Billy Joel, Alicia Keys, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sting12:37 - New York’s famous dishes: chicken riggies, Buffalo wings, bagels, eggs Benedict, lobster Newberg, and pretzels13:07 - The creation of New York-style cheesecake and its cultural importance14:06 - Junior’s Cheesecake and its history, recipes, and global reach15:27 - The legendary hot dogs of Coney Island and the impact of Salins hot dogs16:23 - The history of New York’s cheesecake, from Greeks to modern varieties17:22 - Junior’s role in New York’s culinary scene, their baker Igo Peterson, and their signature recipes18:39 - The expansion of Junior’s restaurants across New York and around the world21:30 - Additional iconic New York foods: Jewish deli staples, good morning bagels, and the story behind Eggs Benedict22:59 - The vibrant restaurant scene in Brooklyn and beyond, including Staten Island’s unique eateries23:20 - Exploring the film Nona’s and the authentic immigrant food experience24:15 - Recommendations: Victor’s Cafe for Cuban cuisine in Times Square and the legendary chicken riggies of Utica27:30 - The diverse natural beauty of upstate New York: Catskills, Adirondacks, Niagara Falls28:00 - Long Island’s farm-to-table restaurants and local seafood specialtiesResources & Links: Junior's Cheesecake Erie Canal - Official Site Salins Hot Dogs Nona’s Movie on Netflix (search for "Nona’s") Victor’s Cafe Coney Island Hot Dogs Connect with the host: Rick K. Jones on Twitter Rick K. Jones on LinkedIn Get inspired to explore the Empire State’s history and savor its legendary dishes!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to our Companion Playlist with songs inspired by: New Hampshire Join Rick K. Jones as he takes us on a flavorful journey through New Hampshire's best eats, historic sites, and unique traditions. From lobster stews in Dover to the lively primary politics and scenic mountains, discover what makes this small but vibrant state so special.In this episode: Top seafood spots along New Hampshire’s coast, including Newick's Lobster House and Newark's Lobster House The history behind New Hampshire's founding and native roots The significance of the New Hampshire primary in U.S. presidential elections Iconic foods: lobster stew, apple cider, clam chowder, and New England boiled dinner Notable figures like JD Salinger, Daniel Webster, and Ken Burns The unique local culture: seafood, apples, and outdoor recreation The story of lobster’s transformation from “trash food” to gourmet delicacy The charming towns and historic sites, including Wapaw and Portsmouth Tips for experiencing local traditions like fish fries and boiled dinners Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome and episode overview01:00 - Best seafood restaurants in New Hampshire05:00 - A dive into the state’s history and founding09:00 - The role of New Hampshire in U.S. presidential primaries13:00 - Food highlights: lobster, apples, chowders, and more18:00 - Meeting Ken Burns and his connection to the state21:00 - Lobster industry history and lobster stew recipe insights28:00 - Must-visit eateries like Main Diner and Jumpin’ J’s Fish Cafe31:00 - Irish pubs and traditional New England dishes32:00 - Closing remarks and tease for next week’s Virginia episodeResources & Links: Road Food by Jane and Michael Stern Ken Burns Official Website Dartmouth College Stonyfield Yogurt Newick's Lobster House New Hampshire Tourism Connect with the Host: Rick K. Jones on Twitter United Taste of America on YouTube Stay tuned for more culinary adventures and local stories next week as we explore Virginia!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to this weeks 'Companion Playlist' featuring songs inspired by: Maryland On today's episode Rick K. Jones digs into the unique culinary traditions and historic significance of Maryland, from its founding as a Catholic colony to its iconic seafood dishes like crab cakes and blue crabs. This episode explores Maryland’s role in American history, culture, and cuisine, highlighting unique stories, iconic foods, and key locations. In this episode: The origins of Maryland's unique Catholic heritage and its colonial roots How Maryland’s history influenced its seafood cuisine, especially crab dishes The significance of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland’s economy and culture Maryland’s pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War and War of 1812 The evolution of college basketball traditions at the University of Maryland Iconic Maryland foods: crab cakes, Smith Island cake, pit beef, and more Famous Maryland spots: Fadley's Crab Cakes, Inn at Perry Cabin, Suicide Bridge Restaurant, and La Fermet   Beautiful Swimmers by William W. Warner - Pulitzer Prize-winning book on Maryland’s seafood industry Old Bay Seasoning - Iconic spice blend for crab dishes Fadley's Crab Cakes - Famous Baltimore crab cakes, available mail-order The Chesapeake Bay Foundation - For further reading on bay health Goldbelly - To order Maryland seafood specialties   Explore Maryland’s vibrant food scene and historic sites on your next trip and taste a true slice of American culture!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to this weeks 'Companion Playlist' featuring songs inspired by: Connecticut In this episode, Rick K. Jones is back to explore the rich history, iconic foods, and notable landmarks of Connecticut, from its colonial roots to its famed pizza and seafood scenes. Perfect for history buffs, food lovers, and travelers alike! Listen in as Rick shares his experience of meeting the grandson of famed pizza maker Frank Pepe and hear the story of how this iconic pizzeria made history and continues to be considered the best pizza in the USA. Plus, stick around for "Three From Me" a segment where Rick shares three other fabulous restaurants to visit in the great state of Connecticut. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to this weeks 'Companion Playlist' featuring songs inspired by: New Jersey This episode of United Tastes of America explores the rich history and culture of New Jersey, from its colonial beginnings and significant role in the American Revolution to its vibrant culinary scene, particularly the influence of Italian immigrants and the rise of diners. Rick also highlights notable figures like Bill Bradley and the state's musical heritage, featuring artists such as Frank Sinatra and Bruce Springsteen. The episode concludes with Rick's famous "Three From Me" where he shares three great spots to dine at when you're in The Garden State!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to our United Tastes of America Playlist Here: Delaware In this episode of the United Taste of America podcast, host Rick K. Jones explores the culinary history and unique dishes of Delaware, the first state to join the Union. The conversation covers Delaware's rich historical background, its diverse culinary offerings, and highlights the significance of local farms and restaurants, particularly focusing on the Woodside Farm Creamery and its ice cream production. The episode concludes with recommendations for must-try restaurants in Delaware, showcasing the state's seafood and classic American dishes.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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