Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, where the overall topic of conversation is food. The show is hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award winning pastry chef, founder, and content creator.
You can watch each episode, in it's video version, on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@iamsprung
Be sure to follow on Instagram for some behind the scenes and short form content at https://www.instagram.com/sprungonfood/
And for more information and links to everything, head to https://www.katherinesprung.com
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Host Kae Sprung welcomes writer and comedian Chik Agwuna to discuss the history of plantains. The episode explores what plantains are biologically, their naming and etymology, and their origins in Southeast Asia with domestication around 10,000 years ago through selective cultivation.
It traces plantains’ spread via Indian Ocean trade to Africa, then through European colonial routes and the transatlantic slave trade to the Caribbean and the Americas, highlighting regional dishes like mofongo, mangu, fufu, tostones/patacones, maduros, and pisang goreng. It covers the rise of mass-produced plantain chips, major brands, market growth, and sustainability benefits, explains French/horn/false horn types, and notes risks from clonal propagation plus efforts to protect wild relatives.
About the show: Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award-winning pastry chef and food and media entrepreneur. This season, we're talking about favorite foods- the history behind them and the role they play in the world today. Each episode features a special guest to talk about their favorite food, and help comment on the historical origins and pop-cultural and modern society moments tied to that food. Its food history meets food pop-culture, a dose of education, with sprinkles of comedy.
*Please note that I'm an affiliate and might receive a commission from the links. If you plan on signing up for either app, please consider using the link to help support a fellow creator!
00:00 Plantains Love Story 00:41 How to Eat Dodo 02:25 Plane Sickness Cure 03:55 Plantains Origins Explained 05:36 Reggae Banana Naming 06:56 Not Just Bananas 07:27 Domestication in Asia 08:19 Dream Driving Lane 11:23 Africa to Americas Spread 13:05 Plantain Dishes Worldwide 13:51 Empanadas and Maduros 15:52 Rise of Plantain Chips 17:52 Inventing Pickle Chips 19:34 Pickle Chip Pitch 20:04 Smuggled Plantain Chips 20:52 Plantain Types Explained 22:31 Scientists Behind Plantains 24:10 Hyperfixation Detour 26:06 Clones and Crop Risk 27:52 Cloning Thought Experiment 30:03 Future of Plantains 33:28 Pop Culture and Records 36:37 Plantain Day and Farewell
The History Of The Reuben Sandwich
Season 3 · Episode 57
Tuesday, April 7, 2026 • Duration 34:45
On Sprung On Food, host Kae Sprung talks with actor and writer Drew Droege about the history of the Reuben sandwich. They break down what makes a great Reuben, corned beef or pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss, buttery rye, and dressing, then investigate the sandwich’s disputed origin stories: Omaha’s Blackstone Hotel poker-night tale tied to Reuben Kulakofsky and a 1956 national sandwich contest win, versus Manhattan’s claim connected to Arnold Reuben and early 20th-century deli culture. The episode also explains Thousand Island and Russian dressing histories, traces the Reuben’s rise in mid-century diners and delis, explores spinoffs like the Rachel and Reuben egg rolls, and highlights pop-culture appearances and modern promotions.
Looking for half off your first 2 months to help make your own podcast? I recommend Riverside and Descript. You can find links below to sign up*: Riverside: https://riverside.cello.so/kbhJQ48RO1SDescript:
The History Of Pavlova
Season 3 · Episode 56
Tuesday, March 31, 2026 • Duration 38:23
On this episode of Sprung On Food, host Kae Sprung talks with actor and writer David Crabb about pavlova as his favorite dessert, tied to memories of meringue-topped banana pudding, pandemic comfort, and a friend’s homemade versions (classic fruit and custard, plus salted caramel chocolate). Kae traces pavlova’s origins to ballerina Anna Pavlova’s 1920s tours, links it to the Austrian Spanische Windtorte as a meringue-and-cream ancestor, and notes cornstarch’s role, possibly popularized by Maizena marketing.
The episode covers the Australia–New Zealand “pavlova war,” its rise as a celebration staple, U.S. equivalents like pie, and pop-culture appearances from stamps to Bluey and Real Housewives.
You can follow and support this week's guest, David Crabb here:
Looking for half off your first 2 months to help make your own podcast? I recommend Riverside and Descript. You can find links below to sign up*: Riverside: https://riverside.cello.so/kbhJQ48RO1SDescript:
ENCORE: The History Of Carrot Cake
Season 3
Tuesday, March 24, 2026 • Duration 27:22
In this episode of Sprung On Food, Kae Sprung dives deep into the delicious world of carrot cake with standup comedian and writer Erin Jackson. Discover the rich history of this popular dessert, tips on making the perfect moist carrot cake (hint: canned peaches and pineapple!), and the role this cake played in major historical events.
From medieval roots to wartime propaganda and modern pop culture, we’ve got it all covered. Plus, learn about unique global variations and hear Erin’s hilarious takes on cake preferences and diet myths. Join us for a sweet culinary journey packed with laughter and tasty insights!
You can follow and support this week's guest, Erin Jackson here:
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ENCORE: The History Of Masala Dosa
Season 3
Tuesday, March 17, 2026 • Duration 31:18
Join Kae Sprung on this episode of Sprung On Food as she dives deep into the world of Masala Dosa with comedian, actor, writer, and content creator Jordan Myrick. Jordan shares their lifelong love for this iconic South Indian dish, detailing their early encounters at vegetarian restaurants and their family’s culinary adventures. Discover the rich history behind Masala Dosa, from its origins in ancient Tamil Nadu to its rise in modern cuisine influenced by Krishna Rao. Plus, get recommendations on where to find the best dosas and hear about its cultural significance. Don't miss out on the delicious exploration!
You can follow and support this week's guest, Jordan Myrick here:
Looking for half off your first 2 months to help make your own podcast? I recommend Riverside and Descript. You can find links below to sign up*:Riverside: Descript:
The History Of Eggplant Parmigiana Sandwich
Season 3 · Episode 55
Tuesday, March 10, 2026 • Duration 38:20
In this episode of Sprung On Food, host Kae Sprung welcomes actor-comedian and writer D.J. Mausner to discuss why the eggplant Parmesan sandwich is their favorite, tied to childhood trips to Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market. Kae traces eggplant’s history from domestication in South and Southeast Asia and its mention in Ayurvedic texts, to China’s Qimin Yaoshu, into the Middle East, and then to Europe via Islamic Spain and Sicily, where it was once feared as the nightshade “mad apple.”
The episode explores disputed origins of Parmigiana di Melanzane (Sicily vs. Naples), how it fit cucina povera, and how Italian immigration to the U.S. helped transform the baked dish into fried Italian-American parm heroes.
You can follow and support this week's guest, D.J. Mausner here:
Looking for half off your first 2 months to help make your own podcast? I recommend Riverside and Descript. You can find links below to sign up*:Riverside: Descript:
The History Of Chickpea Curry
Season 3 · Episode 54
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 • Duration 34:43
Join Kae Sprung in Sprung On Food along with Jamila Norman, owner of Patchwork City Farms and host of Emmy-nominated Homegrown on Magnolia Network, as they delve deep into the rich history and variations of Chickpea Curry. Discover how this flavorful dish represents a tapestry of cultures from Jamaican and Trinidadian roots to its global adaptations. Learn about its historical journey from ancient Mesopotamia to India and the Caribbean, to modern kitchens.
Also known as channa, chole, or curry chickpeas it's more than just a comforting vegetarian dish. It’s a story of migration, resilience, Indo-Caribbean history, and cultural identity. Don't miss this episode filled with culinary insights and cultural wisdom!
You can follow and support this week's guest, Jamila Norman here:
In this episode of Sprung On Food, host Kae Sprung sits down with actor and writer Ariane Price to explore watermelon’s origins, its evolution through agriculture and breeding, the rise of seedless varieties, and how it became both a cultural symbol and a pop-culture icon. It’s a fruit with a deep global history, surprising cultural impact, and a complicated journey from ancient Africa to modern supermarkets. From ancient cultivation to internet usage, watermelon has truly seen it all. We also dig into why watermelon still matters today, as food, as imagery, and as a reflection of how culture and consumption intersect. Watch, learn, and maybe grab a slice.
You can follow and support this week's guest, Ariane Price here:
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The History Of The Cuban Sandwich
Season 3 · Episode 52
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 • Duration 38:25
Join Kae Sprung and guest actor, writer, and director Eddie Mujica as they explore the delicious and storied history of the Cuban sandwich on this episode of Sprung On Food. From its origins in Havana to its cultural significance in Tampa and Miami, discover how this beloved sandwich became a symbol of Cuban American culture. Dive deep into the immigrant influences that shaped its unique flavors and learn about the friendly rivalry between Tampa and Miami versions. Plus, get a glimpse into Eddie's personal connection with the sandwich and his creative twist on its story.
Looking for half off your first 2 months to help make your own podcast? I recommend Riverside and Descript. You can find links below to sign up*:Riverside: Descript:
The History Of Watergate Cake
Season 3 · Episode 51
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 • Duration 34:46
Join host Kae Sprung on Sprung On Food as she dives into the sweet, nutty world of Watergate Cake with special guest actor and writer Jen Ponton. Discover the intriguing history of this retro dessert, its connection to the 1970s Watergate scandal, and its surprising comeback in modern kitchens.
You can follow and support this week's guest, Jen Ponton here:
Looking for half off your first 2 months to help make your own podcast? I recommend Riverside and Descript. You can find links below to sign up*: Riverside: https://riverside.cello.so/kbhJQ48RO1SDescript:
About the show: Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award-winning pastry chef and food and media entrepreneur. This season, we're talking about favorite foods- the history behind them and the role they play in the world today. Each episode features a special guest to talk about their favorite food, and help comment on the historical origins and pop-cultural and modern society moments tied to that food. Its food history meets food pop-culture, a dose of education, with sprinkles of comedy.
*Please note that I'm an affiliate and might receive a commission from the links. If you plan on signing up for either app, please consider using the link to help support a fellow creator!
00:00 Meet the Reuben 00:43 Childhood Favorite 02:57 Best Reubens Today 03:58 Why Size Matters 05:31 Reuben Origins Setup 06:27 Omaha Poker Legend 10:07 Receipts and Tall Tales 12:40 Peppermint Ice Cream Claim 14:01 New York Origin Drama 16:30 Manhattan Deli Theory 18:12 Could Both Be True 21:24 Food Trends and Records 22:50 Dressing Origins Explained 25:27 Improv and Making Dressing 28:31 Reuben Goes Mainstream 29:27 Imitators and Variations 29:51 Why We Love Reubens 31:30 Reuben in Pop Culture 33:06 Final Thoughts and Farewell
About the show: Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award-winning pastry chef and food and media entrepreneur. This season, we're talking about favorite foods- the history behind them and the role they play in the world today. Each episode features a special guest to talk about their favorite food, and help comment on the historical origins and pop-cultural and modern society moments tied to that food. Its food history meets food pop-culture, a dose of education, with sprinkles of comedy.
*Please note that I'm an affiliate and might receive a commission from the links. If you plan on signing up for either app, please consider using the link to help support a fellow creator!
00:00 Meet Pavlova 00:46 Why David Loves It 02:28 Pandemic Pavlova Rituals 03:42 Texture Makes Or Breaks 05:29 Cooking Versus Baking 06:31 Ballerina Origin Story 08:09 Dessert Inspired By Jack 10:45 How Pavlova Is Made 11:30 Vienna Windtorte Ancestor 16:09 Cornstarch And Marketing 19:37 Box Recipe Nostalgia 21:22 Pavlova Origin Trial 23:12 Australia Bias Verdict 24:04 Herbert Burt Character Bit 25:37 How Pavlova Became Iconic 27:00 America’s Pavlova Equivalent 29:12 Why The Debate Endures 31:32 Pavlova Tour Dreaming 33:05 Giant Pavlova Record 35:19 Pop Culture Pavlova 36:29 Finding Pavlova In LA 37:54 Wrap Up And Thanks
About the show: Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award-winning pastry chef and food and media entrepreneur. This season, we're talking about favorite foods- the history behind them and the role they play in the world today. Each episode features a special guest to talk about their favorite food, and help comment on the historical origins and pop-cultural and modern society moments tied to that food. Its food history meets food pop-culture, a dose of education, with sprinkles of comedy.
*Please note that I'm an affiliate and might receive a commission from the links. If you plan on signing up for either app, please consider using the link to help support a fellow creator!
00:00 Introduction to Carrot Cake 00:17 Guest Introduction: Erin Jackson 00:52 Erin's Carrot Cake Secrets 02:50 Carrot Cake Variations 05:40 Historical Origins of Carrot Cake 11:45 Carrot Cake in Wartime 17:21 Modern Carrot Cake Evolution 20:41 Global Carrot Cake Variations 24:02 Carrot Cake in Pop Culture 26:58 Conclusion and Farewell
About the show: Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award-winning pastry chef and food and media entrepreneur. This season, we're talking about favorite foods- the history behind them and the role they play in the world today. Each episode features a special guest to talk about their favorite food, and help comment on the historical origins and pop-cultural and modern society moments tied to that food. Its food history meets food pop-culture, a dose of education, with sprinkles of comedy.
*Please note that I'm an affiliate and might receive a commission from the links. If you plan on signing up for either app, please consider using the link to help support a fellow creator!
About the show: Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award-winning pastry chef and food and media entrepreneur. This season, we're talking about favorite foods- the history behind them and the role they play in the world today. Each episode features a special guest to talk about their favorite food, and help comment on the historical origins and pop-cultural and modern society moments tied to that food. Its food history meets food pop-culture, a dose of education, with sprinkles of comedy.
*Please note that I'm an affiliate and might receive a commission from the links. If you plan on signing up for either app, please consider using the link to help support a fellow creator!
00:00 Eggplant Parm Intro 01:06 Why This Sandwich 02:22 Toronto Market Nostalgia 04:05 Banana Bread Detour 06:45 Eggplant Origins Setup 07:44 Ancient India Eggplant 09:01 Wellness Routines Chat 11:55 Trade Routes To Europe 12:55 Nightshade Fears Myth 15:33 Parmigiana Origin Debate 17:50 Detective Verdict Talk 19:30 Bologna Food Roots 20:20 Eggplant Origins Debate 21:10 Shutter Name Story 22:31 Cucina Povera Parmigiana 23:41 Italian American Fried Era 24:22 Fried Food Hot Takes 26:47 Hero Sandwich History 28:45 Elevation Or Exploitation 32:24 Why This Sandwich Matters 33:41 Eggplant Love And Wings 35:09 Pop Culture And Legends 36:55 Final Thoughts And Thanks
About the show: Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award-winning pastry chef and food and media entrepreneur. This season, we're talking about favorite foods- the history behind them and the role they play in the world today. Each episode features a special guest to talk about their favorite food, and help comment on the historical origins and pop-cultural and modern society moments tied to that food. Its food history meets food pop-culture, a dose of education, with sprinkles of comedy.
*Please note that I'm an affiliate and might receive a commission from the links. If you plan on signing up for either app, please consider using the link to help support a fellow creator!
00:00 Introduction to Chickpea Curry 00:17 Guest Introduction: Jamila Norman 00:33 Why Chickpea Curry? 01:29 Variations of Chickpea Curry 02:58 Making Chickpea Curry at Home 04:23 Historical Roots of Chickpeas 06:06 Challenges of Growing Chickpeas 09:17 Chickpeas in Ancient Civilizations 09:57 Chickpea Curry in Indian Cuisine 14:17 Communal Dining with Chickpea Curry 16:15 Chickpea Curry's Journey to the Caribbean 18:07 Atlanta's Restaurant Scene and the Dreaded Lines 19:29 The Allure and Disappointment of Long Lines 20:35 Chickpea Curry: A Caribbean Comfort Food 20:59 The Art of Making Chickpea Curry 21:37 Regional Variations of Chickpea Curry 23:51 Chickpea Curry's Global Journey 25:54 The Unique Flavor of Caribbean Chickpeas 29:43 Chickpea Curry in Pop Culture 30:47 The Rise of Doubles in Atlanta 34:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
About the show: Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award-winning pastry chef and food and media entrepreneur. This season, we're talking about favorite foods- the history behind them and the role they play in the world today. Each episode features a special guest to talk about their favorite food, and help comment on the historical origins and pop-cultural and modern society moments tied to that food. Its food history meets food pop-culture, a dose of education, with sprinkles of comedy.
*Please note that I'm an affiliate and might receive a commission from the links. If you plan on signing up for either app, please consider using the link to help support a fellow creator!
00:00 Introduction to Watermelon Obsession 00:40 The Perfect Watermelon Experience 03:31 Creative Culinary Uses of Watermelon 06:14 Watermelon's Ancient Origins 08:12 Watermelon in Egyptian Culture 14:33 Watermelon's Journey Across the World 15:49 Watermelon in American History 16:48 The Healing Power of Laughter 18:34 Exploring the Depths of Humor and Character 20:02 Corporate Training and Improv with Celebrities 21:46 The Science Behind Seedless Watermelons 22:39 Global Innovations in Watermelon Breeding 25:41 Nutritional Benefits and Culinary Uses of Watermelon 32:47 Watermelon's Cultural Impact and Pop Culture Moments 35:27 Final Thoughts on Watermelons
About the show: Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award-winning pastry chef and food and media entrepreneur. This season, we're talking about favorite foods- the history behind them and the role they play in the world today. Each episode features a special guest to talk about their favorite food, and help comment on the historical origins and pop-cultural and modern society moments tied to that food. Its food history meets food pop-culture, a dose of education, with sprinkles of comedy.
*Please note that I'm an affiliate and might receive a commission from the links. If you plan on signing up for either app, please consider using the link to help support a fellow creator!
00:00 Introduction to the Cuban Sandwich 00:29 Eddie Mujica's Cuban Sandwich Connection 04:34 The Origins of the Cuban Sandwich 07:40 The Evolution of the Cuban Sandwich 12:13 Ybor City: The Melting Pot 16:45 The Medianoche: The Cuban Sandwich's Sibling 17:59 Cuban Sandwich vs. Medianoche: A Personal Preference 19:11 Nelly and the Mixto City Pitch 19:59 The Origins of the Cuban Sandwich 21:10 Tampa vs. Miami: The Great Cuban Sandwich Rivalry 22:44 Jamonton: A Cuban Parody of Hamilton 28:03 The Cuban Sandwich Goes Global 34:35 Pop Culture Moments and Cuban Sandwich Records 37:32 Final Thoughts and Farewell
About the show: Sprung On Food is a digital and podcast series, hosted by Katherine "Kae" Sprung, an award-winning pastry chef and food and media entrepreneur. This season, we're talking about favorite foods- the history behind them and the role they play in the world today. Each episode features a special guest to talk about their favorite food, and help comment on the historical origins and pop-cultural and modern society moments tied to that food. Its food history meets food pop-culture, a dose of education, with sprinkles of comedy.
*Please note that I'm an affiliate and might receive a commission from the links. If you plan on signing up for either app, please consider using the link to help support a fellow creator!
00:00 Introduction to Watergate Cake 00:59 Jen Ponton's Personal Connection 06:28 The 1970s Food Culture 10:37 Pistachio's Rise in Popularity 16:06 TV Magic and Behind the Scenes 18:10 The UGG Craze: A Cultural Phenomenon 18:52 Pistachio Pudding: From Pies to Watergate Salad 19:43 The Birth of the Watergate Cake 20:44 Theories Behind the Watergate Name 25:00 The Watergate Cake Recipe 29:54 Nostalgia and the Modern Revival 33:40 Personal Stories and Final Thoughts
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