Fun viewing for foodies
FOODTAINMENT: SHOWS TO LAUGH ABOUT OR TO HELP YOU RELAX
Streaming entertainment providers have realised the popularity of these offerings.
If you’ve ever flipped to the Food Network channel, you would know how calming it is. Almost like watching a crackling fire, there’s sound research that says watching food programming relaxes you. So much so that even streaming entertainment providers are introducing more and more foodrelated shows and documentaries to their line-ups.
If you’re under the impression that food shows are boring, featuring people smiling into the camera, that needs to change.
Here are some food shows that are fun, gorgeous, compelling and entirely relaxing.
BAREFOOT CONTESSA
Ina Garten has built an empire around simple, sophisticated food that anyone can prepare.
Except she does it from her East Hamptons home and while she might scold you for not investing in good oil, the show is a marvellous way to unwind and pick up some cooking and baking tips from the doyenne of home cooking. Catch Barefoot Contessa on weekdays on Food Network (DStv channel 175) at 6am.
CHEF’S TABLE
One of the most captivating culinary shows, Chef’s Table, gives insight into the minds of world-regarded chefs and why food pioneers are so celebrated.
If you’ve never fully understood fine dining, this show gives you its human side with incredible cinematography that will have your eyes glued to the screen. It’s exceptional entertainment that’s not dumbed down.
Watch it on Netflix.
NAILED IT
A reality TV staple is often homewrecking, but in Nailed It the housewife drama is swapped for cake wreckers who have to bring baked goods to life. Spunky host Nicole Byer’s provides masses of charm as competitors see who’s the best of the worst when it comes to recreating fabulous baked food. While it’s not recipe-driven or about food exploration, it’s a comforting show that proves many other people also burn the toast.
Stream it on Netflix.
KONINGS VAN KITSKOS
Taking inspiration from Guy Fiery’s Diner’s, Drive-Ins and Dives, in Konings van Kitskos Gerhard Steyn and Alvin Bruinders travel South Africa to show you some of the country’s best fast food. Catch the kings of fast food on Wednesdays at 5.30pm on VIA (DStv channel 147)
PRIVATE CHEF
Follow Neill Anthony during the third season of his show where he explores local and international flavours, showing you just how elevated South African food culture really is.
Catch it on Wednesdays at 8.30pm on SABC 3.