Watch Tasting Our Roots

Tasting Our Roots is a heartwarming and educational food and travel series from BuzzFeed Originals. The show is hosted by Vanessa Parish and Daysha Edewi, two food enthusiasts who set out on a journey to explore their cultural heritage through food. The duo ventures across the United States, visiting various communities to explore the food, culture and traditions that connect them to their roots.

Each episode features a different region, highlighting unique and diverse culinary traditions. Vanessa and Daysha explore a range of different cuisines, from Korean to Cajun, Mexican to Filipino. The show is not just about sampling various recipes, but about learning and understanding the origin and significance of each dish.

As Vanessa and Daysha travel to each location, they meet locals who help them understand the cultural significance that certain foods hold. Tasting Our Roots emphasizes the importance of understanding the origins of food, and how it relates to the history of the people who make it.

The show also addresses the challenges faced by different cultural groups, such as marginalization or discrimination. For example, in the episode about Korean cuisine, they learn about the history of Korean food in America and how it was initially considered 'exotic' and 'foreign.' They also learn about how Korean immigrants were often mistreated and had to adapt their cuisine to the tastes of the American palate.

Despite these histories, Tasting Our Roots celebrates the resilience and creativity of these communities. Vanessa and Daysha showcase talented chefs, cooks, and food entrepreneurs who are keeping their cultural traditions alive in new and innovative ways.

The show is filmed in a documentary style, which adds to the authenticity of the storytelling. From walking through local markets to preparing meals with families in their homes, viewers are taken on a journey that feels personal and intimate. The production team did a fantastic job of portraying the diverse communities and showcasing the different types of food cultures in these communities.

One of the great things about Tasting Our Roots is its attention to detail. The show highlights the little things that make each culture unique, such as the specific herbs used in a recipe or the way utensils are arranged on the table. Vanessa and Daysha give viewers a thorough understanding of the cultural significance that each meal holds, making the show not only entertaining but also informative.

In addition to the food, the show covers other aspects of the culture, such as music, fashion, and art. For example, the episode on Filipino cuisine explores the rich history of the country, like their connection with colonialism and the overall cultural influence of the Philippines in America, as well as traditional dancing, and modern fashion.

Overall, Tasting Our Roots is a visually stunning and emotionally engaging gastronomic journey. Vanessa and Daysha are the perfect hosts, full of energy, and passionate about food and culture. Their sense of humor and infectious energy make for an enjoyable viewing experience. The show gives viewers a deep appreciation and understanding of the diverse food cultures that exist within America. Tasting Our Roots is not just about eating, but about connecting with people from diverse backgrounds, telling their stories, and showing the cultural diversity that exists within America.