In this episode, we explore the enduring legacy and global evolution of the taco. Beginning with its origins in ancient Mesoamerica, where indigenous peoples used maize tortillas as edible utensils, the taco has always been a practical and culturally rich food. We trace how the Spanish introduced new meats and seasonings that reshaped the taco, and how each region of Mexico developed its own unique style—from al pastor in Mexico City to fish tacos in Baja California.

In this episode of Flavors of Time, we explore the rich and savory legacy of the British meat pie. From its medieval origins as a practical method of preserving meat, the pie evolved into a symbol of both royal grandeur and working-class sustenance. We journey through history—from Tudor banquet tables to factory lunch breaks—uncovering how pies adapted across regions, from the Cornish pasty to the Scotch pie. As the British Empire spread, so did the meat pie, influencing culinary traditions in Australia, South Africa, and beyond. Today, gourmet chefs and home bakers alike continue to reinvent this beloved dish, proving that the pie’s flaky crust still holds centuries of culture and comfort inside.

In this episode of Flavors of Time, we trace the extraordinary journey of chocolate from its sacred beginnings in Mesoamerican civilizations to its global popularity today. Once a bitter ceremonial drink revered by the Maya and Aztecs, chocolate transformed into a luxurious treat in European courts and, eventually, a mass-produced delight for all. We explore the innovations that turned cacao into bars and bonbons, as well as the darker side of its history involving colonialism and labor exploitation. Today, chocolate is not only a beloved sweet but also a medium of artistic and emotional expression—one that connects cultures, memories, and ethics in every bite.