Even “Antiques Roadshow” can’t resist the allure of a good meal. This week, the venerable series trades in dusty heirlooms for culinary history, dedicating an entire episode to the evolution of food. Forget silver candlesticks and chipped porcelain; this time, it’s all about the grub.
The episode, titled “A History of Food,” aims to take a look at four centuries of cooking and dining through the lens of, well, old kitchen stuff. Joining Fiona Bruce is none other than Dame Mary Berry, who will be sharing her own culinary journey, complete with three of her personal kitchen tools. Because who doesn’t want to know what whisk Dame Mary prefers?
Food historian Ivan Day will also be on hand, contributing items from his personal collection. Apparently, he owns a centuries-old ravioli cutter. Now that’s a conversation starter. And because no historical food episode is complete without a taste of the past, Dr. Annie Gray will be recreating dishes from the late 19th century. Think afternoon tea, but with extra historical context.
In addition to the main course, the episode offers several side dishes of historical intrigue. Ronnie Archer Morgan will be visiting Veeraswamy, Britain’s oldest Indian restaurant, and the Museum of London to discuss the complicated relationship between sugar and slavery. Meanwhile, Mark Smith will be exploring the logistical nightmares faced by Atlantic convoys during World War II. Because even in wartime, a nation needs its tea and crumpets.
“Antiques Roadshow: A History of Food” airs Sunday, December 29, at 8:00 PM on BBC One.
