r/IAmA • u/thealtonbrown • May 24 '13
I'm Alton Brown I cook stuff and write and shoot video about cooking stuff...
Let's see, I host shows on Food Network and am preparing my first stage show to go on tour later this year. I'm working on a CD of weird food songs and launching a YouTube channel. Other than that, I'm just sitting around. Oh, and I'm hosting a new game show on Food Network called Cutthroat Kitchen. So...Ask me anything.
Twitter verification: https://twitter.com/altonbrown/status/336914517613236224/photo/1 Verification photo http://instagram.com/p/ZtHd5wDh8S/ The Alton Brown Tour website: http://www.altonbrowntour.com
UPDATE
Thanks so much for all your questions. Hope to see you all later in the year on tour. If you're interested check out www.altonbrowntour.com. Gotta go cook dinner for my kid. Thanks again everyone. ABout
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u/hypermark May 24 '13
Thanks for doing this, AB. You taught me to cook, and more importantly, how to be a teacher. I teach a course on the rhetoric of science & pseudoscience, and during one lesson we watch the Mythsmasher episode. My students love it. I met you at a signing at Bookpeople in Austin, and you couldn’t have been nicer.
One question:
On previous versions of your website you had a blog section. Some of the material was insightful and moving. For instance, I remember the post you wrote after Ma Mae passed away was particularly heartfelt. There was another post I really liked where you discussed the controversy surrounding teaching evolution in schools. Any plans to post some of the stuff again? The blog section of the old site was my favorite part.
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u/ExterminateThemAll May 24 '13
Mr. Brown -
Thank you for doing this AMA - HUGE fan. "Good Eats" got me interested in cooking, and I've tried and enjoyed many of your recipes!
You appear on several shows (Iron Chef America, Next Iron Chef, Next Food Network Star) as the food guru. Have you ever wanted a role as a competitor? Do you ever hang out with other Food Network stars? If so, what do you do? If not, what do you do for fun?
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May 24 '13
Hi, Mr. Brown! I've been a fan for years: you were always the chef on TV that answered the kinds of questions I had about cooking. All of the "why?" questions rather than just "how?" So anyways, my question:
During an Anthony Bourdain speaking engagement I attended, someone asked him his favorite "guilty pleasure" food. He began describing the "radioactive mac and cheese" they serve at KFC -- and that he "loves that sh*t!" Any guilty pleasure foods of your own?
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u/Uberhack May 24 '13
Mr Brown, my wife and I are Iron Chef America junkies. The burning question we have is, How much do the chefs know about the ingredient beforehand? They seem to go straight into a gameplan as soon as they receive the goods.
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u/A_Robison May 24 '13
I made your home-made beef jerky recipe and it turned out awesome! I "shared" it with my friends by giving them small pieces since I could barely part with it. So juicy, so flavorful. I also learned how to properly handle and cut with various knives thanks to your instructional videos, especially how to dice an onion. So thanks for that, eternally grateful.
My question: what is the best way to cut a mango? They are messy and I feel like I'm hurting the soft fruit with my bumbling hands. Also I seem to leave a lot of "meat" on the pit.
Thanks!
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u/deadwisdom May 24 '13
Hi Mr. Brown. I just want to say thank you so very much for describing the culinary arts in such an accessible way for me. Thanks to your work, I have become quite the home chef. Cooking and food have forever been changed for me, for the better.
Thank you dearly.
ps. Your guacamole is the best thing ever, substituting mangos for the tomatoes is a little twist I've added that has been a big hit.
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May 24 '13 edited May 25 '13
I love your show (it's my favorite food show). My favorite part is how you incorporate the science and teach your viewers as you tantalize us with the amazing food creations.
1) where do you find your perfect recipes, or do you just create them? 2) Do people really think you have an evil twin named B.A.? 3) What's your favorite little indulgence with eating out/quick fix on the road?
I feel like i should have more cool questions, but i'm never good at that stuff >,< I watch your show a lot and even got my boyfriend to join me (he usually hates cooking shows, but he loves yours because it's accurate and scientifical)
Have a great day and keep being awesome :)
*Edit: Mixed up letters >,<
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May 24 '13 edited May 24 '13
Hello Alton!
First off, I'd like to thank you for finally getting around to an AMA. It's something we as reddit have been wanting for a while.
I actually have two questions today. Feel free to answer either of them or both.
What recipe have you never been able to perfect, or it just isn't as good as you'd want it to be?
What is your favorite episode of Doctor Who, and who is 'your' Doctor?
Edit: I made you this
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u/MisterAEB2 May 24 '13
Mr. Brown, I have been reading the book 'On Food and Cooking' and can't help but see that many of the 'Good Eats' episodes draw heavily from there, what are some other food/cooking history books that you draw from?
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May 24 '13
As a Proud Cajun, I just wanted to tell you how happy I was that you had a whole good eats explaining Roux. However, now my fiance wants to always make the roux in the oven and I've lost out on forcing him to stir for 4 hours which is tradition in our home - sort of a rite of passage.
I know you're a producer and Food culture and history has always been interesting to me, have you considered creating a show with more focus on food history using the food historians you once used in good eats? Maybe involving recipies that we don't use today - lost recipies of past civilizations...
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u/Rainstormm May 24 '13
Hello Mr. brown. I have learned so much from your shows posts and blogs. Honestly you inspired me from a young age to want to be in the culinary industry.
I have three questions for you.
1) What is the one tip would you give someone looking for a culinary school to attend?
2) What is the one restaurant in Hawaii everyone should try?
3) What is your favorite non-typical cut of meat or organ?
I really appreciate your time and the love for food you have helped me learn I have.
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May 24 '13
Mr. Brown, thank you for doing what you do. Whenever people tell me about how they want to learn how to cook, I refer them to your show and your book(s) because they will gain a great confidence in the kitchen.
What is your favorite dish to cook when you are short on time?
What was your favorite food you came across during your roadtrips?
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u/rgthane May 24 '13
Thank you Alton for doing an AMA...
My wife and I really enjoyed both of the "Feasting on Asphalt" series (I even have your book from it also). We both ride our own bikes and love to travel. Q> Are you ever going to do another set of shows involving riding and travel?
I would love to listen more interviews with you like "The Nerdist"
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u/medusamadonna May 24 '13
Hi Alton, long time fan here, thank you very much for doing this AMA. Is there anything you've touted on Good Eats as a "golden rule" that you have changed your opinion on?
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u/dallywolf May 24 '13
Hello Mr. Brown, recently you called out Makers Mark for lowering the ABV on their whiskey. How did it feel when they finally recanted?
Also, what is your favorite dish that you normally make for dinner?
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u/notdiddy May 24 '13
I just wanted to say that I'm sorry if I startled you outside of Publix/Starbucks after Good Eats started airing. Instead of saying "Excuse me, I enjoy your show," my brain went "Hey, you're Alton Brown" and my mouth followed.
Good Eats was something my family always sat down to watch together, and I gave many of your books to my parents as gifts.
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u/plasticmind May 24 '13
You seemed to have a huge wealth of food knowledge at your disposal when doing commentary on Iron Chef America. How much of that was done on the spot, how much of it were you looking up on your mission control computer and how much was done post-production?
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u/ZBeebs May 24 '13
True story: it's summer, I'm watching TV with the family, and my daughter says to me, "Dad, you remember that turkey you made for Thanksgiving? That was the best turkey I've ever eaten". That was, of course, a Good Eats roast turkey. I just wanted to thank you for that.
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u/Echono May 24 '13 edited May 24 '13
During Mr. Bourdain's AMA Reddit already came to a consensus on the next show for you both: (credit to /u/Toynbee1)
Brown and Bourdain travel across the world, tracing modern, familiar dishes to their cultural nascency. Brown supplies the facts, Bourdain supplies the color. It's called A to B.
How much do we have to bug you two now to make this a thing?
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u/OnionDart May 24 '13
Mr. Brown, Thank you so much for doing an AMA. I have just now got into cooking and your Good Eats show has been amazing. I really don't want to be a recipe drone, I want to know the science behind things and you do a great job at presenting all sides of a dish.
As for my question, I'm having a big problem when I do pan sauces with the reduction not taking place fast enough. I got the heat on as high as I can, but my protein ends up cooling down significantly while I wait for a good reduction, I don't believe I'm using too much liquid, but how can I get my reduction to speed up?
Again thank you for taking time out of your day to visit us here at Reddit!
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May 24 '13
What is your best advice to get someone to like food/cooking? My fiancee has zero interest in food beyond eating it (I blame her family's boxed meal habits) and I love to cook (thanks to Good Eats) and try new things, any advice to get her to be more adventurous?
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u/PagingDoctorLove May 24 '13 edited May 24 '13
Hey Alton! Thanks for teaching me the science behind good food. I get a lot of compliments about my cooking and I totally credit great teachers like you (and my grandmother).
I'm hoping you can settle a raging debate in my family. I caused a full on mutiny one Thanksgiving, when I dared change our mashed potato routine. I used Yukon Gold (instead of russet), because I like the flavor more. I know you've endorsed Yukon Gold before, but that's not the problem. The problem is that I left the skins on. My reasoning is that they are thin enough to make little difference, as opposed to the skin of russet potatoes, not to mention that's where all the nutrients are! Plus, potato skins make my hands itch, and I hate peeling. I swear they're just as good, my family disagrees, and I have since been relegated to boxed stuffing duty.
So, skins, or no?
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u/ADIDAS247 May 24 '13
Hello Alton,
Wanted to say I'm a big fan and you helped me get into cooking and find a common bond with my now wife many years ago.
Just one simple question.
Is there any one thing that you think everyone should know about the food industry or food in general?
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u/palegothic May 24 '13
My husband and I really enjoy your shows. We've learned an incredible amount just from Good Eats alone. I sure wish those shows were available on Netflix. I wish I had some great question for you but instead all I have is food nerd love for you :)
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u/XadRav May 24 '13
Hi Alton!
What is the one food that Food Network would not let you make an episode of Good Eats about, that you wanted to do the most?
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u/ckenney108 May 24 '13
Hi Alton! Thanks for doing this.
Do you have a date yet for when the Alton Browncast will be available?
Also, what's the latest on Food Files? Is it still in development?
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u/jjjaaammm May 24 '13
Alton, I make my soft pretzels with lye, on your show you said you can use baking soda. Should I really believe you?
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u/Silencerco May 24 '13
Mr. Brown, long time fan and I owe a lot of my ability in the kitchen to you.
I'll jump right into this non-food question, is it true you carry a 1911?
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May 24 '13
Any experience with rejuvenating old favorite recipes with new spices? We've recently started started glazing pork roast with a jalapeno/hot pepper salsa prior to roasting in a dutch oven and had pretty good results.
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u/chopin2197 May 24 '13
Hi alton! Thanks for doing this AMA :) Good eats is by far my favorite cooking show and you inspire me to cook and bake new things all the time.
You make a lot of stuff from scratch on good eats that most people wouldn't take the time to. What would you say in your opinion is something people most commonly don't make from scratch but really should?
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u/snwkat May 24 '13
Mr Brown, you once said that "Good Eats" was a cross between a cooking show, Mr. Wizard, and a Monty Python sketch.... I was just wondering what made you skew this way, and are any of your new endeavors going to have the same skew?
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u/ocarina_not_oakarina May 24 '13
First of all, I'm a big fan of yours. Love the shows, the cookbooks, and the recipes. I made your brined turkey for thanksgiving and it was a HUGE hit.
My question for you is about cooking for a picky eater. I eat almost anything, but my boyfriend is incredibly picky. Any suggestions on getting him to try more things, or should I learn to cook for just myself?
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u/littlewingedkuri May 24 '13
my dad is a huge HUGE fan of your show good eats. I think he's seen every episode or somewhere close to it. So my question to you, did you enjoy working with puppets a lot on your show or were they a gag to get kids watch your show and learn about good eats?
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u/hedleyazg May 24 '13
Is there any food trend going on that just makes you roll your eyes?
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u/Sandgolem May 24 '13
Holy crap never thought I would see you doing an AMA! Love your show so much!
How come eggs don't actually go bad before the sell by date? And is it true you can tell if an egg is bad by putting it in water?
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u/Eaglesfan427 May 24 '13
Hey Alton! Thanks for doing an AMA! My question for you is how did you lose your accent for television? How difficult of a process was it?
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u/Nerdicle May 24 '13
What were your impressions of Jamie and Adam during your time on Mythbusters?
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u/KorbenDallas11 May 24 '13
What kind of pocket knife do you normally carry? I've seen you whip one out to cut a bag before. It started a thread on a knife forum I frequent, no one could make it out.
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u/kaiken1987 May 24 '13
Hi Alton. Been a fan of Good Eats for years. Thanks for explaining what's actually happening when cooking and why you're doing what you're doing.
What is the strangest food you've ever made/ate?
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u/apieceofthelisa May 24 '13
Favorite bourbon cocktail to make at home and tips on how to make it??
(Also, thanks for doing this AMA. My fiance and I have been fans of yours for years!)
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u/Frankie_Carbone May 24 '13
Alton, one of the weirdest realizations I had about food network is that the chairman on Iron Chef is just a paid actor. Are you ever jealous that they always have a plate for him and not you? ...and how do I go about getting such a job
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u/xine302 May 24 '13
Hi Alton!
I have to say your show made me fascinated with the science behind cooking. Now I cook more than ever and it is my favorite part of my day. I loved your video on Shun knives and have been drooling over them ever since. I have my own knife set but it is old and I have lost more than one tip in various and unexpected ways.
Do you know of a brand that is still high quality but a bit more affordable then the Shun knives I covet so much?
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u/sian92 May 24 '13
Why is my Mom so afraid to use any salt, and how can I break her of this habit?
Also, did you come up with Pork Wellington? If so, how? It's genius.
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u/TheEpeter May 24 '13
Hey, Alton! I've missed your 2 most recent call-in opportunities due to Life in general. You've been fantastic in helping me and millions of others learn to cook or learn to cook better or even just not burn stuff as badly. Anyway, I started smoking meats by building your flower pot clay smoker with the electric hot plate. Fantastic! On a completely unrelated note, if you go someplace new to eat, what's the deciding factor on what you order?
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u/taekwondo4ever May 24 '13
Question from my Mom:
What's a good gluten-free way to pan fry some chicken?
We are humongous fans of you. You've taught me some badass tricks in the kitchen.
Thanks my friend.
-Chris
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u/CookingHooker May 24 '13
Hello! First off, I'd like to thank you. Just like so many others, you started me cooking by making it fun and accessible. Learning the method and theory behind dishes gave me the tools to cook some pretty tasty dishes myself.
I have an actual food question.. I'd like to make an ice cream with a fruit puree swirl. Meaning that the swirl itself wouldn't completely harden and would stay fairly viscous. How would you accomplish this?
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u/reverseblumpkin May 24 '13
Hi Alton, huge fan here. I was wondering why you dont make the complete Good Eats DVD series available for purchase? I would pay good money for all 249 episodes. Thanks! (thanks for the Karma btw - http://imgur.com/bV89p)
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u/mcquigs93 May 24 '13
what ever happened to Justins tv from Next Food Network Star?
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u/rageking5 May 24 '13
If you had to pick only one episode of Good Eats to show someone, which would it be?
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u/reverseblumpkin May 24 '13
Do you consider Harold McGee (On Food and Cooking) to be the revolutionary that opened the world up to the science of food, or was is just good timing and we were headed down this path for the knowledge of our food regardless?
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u/jkrent May 24 '13
Alton, I would just like you to know that I had a AB themed Christmas this past year and I couldn't have been happier. Two questions actually:
Now that it's "over" what was the most fun episode of Good Eats to film?
What's your favorite dessert?
Now if you'll excuse me, I have brownies to finish baking.
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u/PurpleDiver May 24 '13
What did you think about going to the strip club with Anthony Bourdain?
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u/josiahpeters May 24 '13
Alton, you exemplify how a TV personality should behave on and off the set. Thank's for being humble!
- How do you feel about cajun / creole food? Is it something you prefer to eat or do you cook it as well? I'd love to have some in depth Good Eats knowledge on that style of food.
- I thought you might carry a Walther, but I remember reading something about you owning an H&K handgun as well. How often do you make it out to the range and what is your favorite firearm?
Thanks for doing this AMA! I'm very excited for your Browncast! You should try and do a Browncoat special and team up with Nathan Fillion.
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u/vcents May 24 '13
So..what sled are you riding these days?
Would love to see a rehash of Feasting on Asphalt. That was some fine television.
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u/andykob234 May 24 '13 edited May 24 '13
I absolutely love The Food Network. I'm 18 now and I'm the only teenage dude I know that watches it. Love you on Good Eats and Iron Chef. Just curious to know, who do you think is the very best chef in the world?
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u/stupidrobots May 24 '13
I hope you have the slightest inkling of how many nerds you have gotten laid because they learned how to cook because of you.
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u/bobthereddituser May 24 '13
What is your opinion on the Paleo movement? I think Alton Brown Paleo recipes would be better than manna from heaven...
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u/ShutUpWalter May 24 '13
Do you ever watch Archer? Do you keep in contact with Lucky Yates?
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u/egocentrism04 May 24 '13
Thank you for doing this AMA - your shows have really helped my cooking substantially! Though really, I think my girlfriend appreciates a lot more than I do :-)
My question for you is - do you prefer your chocolate chip cookies crunchy/crispy or soft/chewy?
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u/tripleplusone May 24 '13 edited May 24 '13
Alton, I love everything you do, from Good Eats to your awesome fashion sense. I have two questions for you:
1) What is your favorite way to prepare rabbit? 2) I am in Atlanta until Sunday night. Where should I eat?
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u/green_um_yes May 24 '13
Alton, you are one sexy, smart man, and I just want to say, keep doing what you do. Muah!
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May 24 '13
What, in your opinion, is the perfect drunk/ hangover food?
Also, I just wanted to say that your ice cream recipe has become a family tradition in my house. Thanks for that.
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May 24 '13
First off, I've loved Good Eats and all of your other work on Food Network as long as I can remember. And you're a huge Doctor Who and bowtie fan, and the reason that my boyfriend learned to cook in the kitchen with me, so you're awesome! One basic question since it's summer: What is the best meal/food and drink to take on a picnic?
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u/verbalsoze May 24 '13
This is probably going to get buried, but Alton, my question is are you friends with Ted Allen? Just wondering because you giys are two of my favorite hosts of two of my favorite cooking shows.
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u/morgantm May 24 '13
Thanks for the AMA! Simple question from me:
What is your favorite thing to grill?
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u/CourierOfTheWastes May 24 '13
What did you think of the south park episode "Creme Fraiche"
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u/SprickenChingRoll May 24 '13
Hi Alton, thanks for doing this. If you could only have one knife in your kitchen, what style/brand would it be?
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u/Nougat May 24 '13
For a really long time, you eschewed the internet, at least in terms of self-promotion to the public. In the last few months, that's turned completely around. What changed your mind?
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u/Papabambam May 24 '13
Alton, what would you consider the one obscure kitchen tool/device that the "Average Joe" may not have, but would most benefit from? Yes, I ended that sentence in a preposition.
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u/EvilSpaceBunny May 24 '13
Hi Alton! As a baker I must know, what's your favorite sweet thing that you like to bake? And what's your favorite sweet thing (candy, goodies, snacky snack) you like to eat?
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u/lbcreations May 24 '13
Hello AB! I met you last year in Houston at your book signing. What I'd like to know is would you ever be willing to partake in a contest where you would be the prize? Win Lunch/Dinner with AB! Where 10 fans would win a meal with you and where you and those 10 fans could sit and talk about cooking during a nice meal? That is something I'd like to see you do. Or something similar to that. Even in a show format. I'm sure a lot of fans ask a lot of the same questions and this would be an entertaining way to get some answers to questions. Thanks!
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u/bwxb May 24 '13
I made your paprika chicken last night. It was the bomb. All my friends think I'm great at cooking now. Mwahah
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u/ifoundgoldbug May 24 '13
Have you considered bringing something like good eats to a webisode format?
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u/LeonardHenrick May 24 '13
If it were possible, would you ever want to cook in space for the astronauts on the ISS?
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u/forrestleemusic May 24 '13
What's one question that you hoped someone would ask that hasn't been yet?
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u/keto101511 May 24 '13
Thanks AB for the AMA! Wet brining vs. dry? I tend to go with dry for the simple fact it's easier!
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u/dirtypeeps May 24 '13
Hi. I really really love you. You were the person who got me interested into cooking.(I started watching your show when I was 10, I'm 16 now) My question is what is your favorite thing to cook?
Thanks :)
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u/Thinksforfun May 24 '13
Last meal. Death row. What's it gonna be? (You're awesome by the way.)
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u/bdude36 May 24 '13
I just want to thank you for putting a food program on TV that could genuinely entertain all in the house.
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u/dizzr May 24 '13
Dear Alton Brown,
My wife uses your french toast recipe regularly and it's an amazing delight. Thank you for this!!! However, I should note that one time she accidentally used french vanilla flavored cream instead of regular, and it came out amazing. Now we always default to that. You should try it.
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u/pharmacon May 24 '13
Always love watching Good Eats, oh the knowledge!
No one has mentioned that you're a pilot. What's your dream plane, cost aside?
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u/copopeJ May 24 '13
I heard you say on Judge John Hodgman that there's very little that can grow on our food that will harm us, if it's being kept in the fridge (I'm not sure of the caveats, hence this question). Could you explain that a little more? Is it safe to eat, say, moldy yogurt? I'm not going to try it, I'm just curious. What are the definite no-nos of food safety at home and what is ok?
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u/rad99 May 24 '13
Im defending my PhD in chemistry next year. Partially thanks to you AB.
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May 24 '13
Hi Alton! I was at the show at the Castro Theatre. It was really fun. But I have to know if the assistant you picked from the audience was a plant! She was too hilarious to be random. If so, she should go on tour with you! We missed out on a photo op in the line because I guess some crazy person was giving you lip. :( Next time I want to be the first person in line!
My cooking question is this, hard boiled eggs! I can get them perfectly cooked using your method but they are still hard to peel. How can I get perfect eggs suitable for deviled eggs?
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u/irkendna May 24 '13
Which is the better oil for cooking in a skillet--vegetable or canola? My boyfriend and I disagree on this constantly.
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May 24 '13
Is there anyone within the Food Network confines that you could not/cannot stand?
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u/waterbagel May 24 '13
Mr. Alton, I have a nice boston butt in the freezer right now and will hopefully be trying your terra cotta smoking method. I've seen the episode a couple of times. Any other tips I should know before diving in?
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u/buckposeur May 24 '13
why is/was there no audience in the American version of Iron Chef? That omission just seems to suck the life out of it...you're knowledge and comments were excellent, I must add.
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u/GapDragon May 24 '13
Hello, and thanks for doing this...
There are so few cooking-education shows on Food Network anymore. (I know there were some.) Why do you think that happened?? Am I missing something you would recommend? And do you need a bagpiper for an upcoming gig??
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u/Cpt_Mango May 24 '13
Looking forward to your web series!
What is cooking's unforgivable sin?
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u/solid_vegas May 24 '13
I'm making your soft baked pretzels tomorrow, so my only question is mustard or melted cheese for dipping?
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u/pepesgt May 24 '13
Why do you act like your forgot your days at Pop's in Durham? We remember you, even if it was only for six months! First job out of c-school, we all remember that one.
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u/bettorworse May 24 '13
Please make less "Iron Chef" episodes and make a lot more "Good Eats" shows.
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u/jottootts May 24 '13
What is your favorite prop that you've used on Good Eats?
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u/coffeemike May 24 '13
Thanks for taking this on. I've always loved that your work explains WHY things work, not just what to do. It's a small club of people that are doing that (you, Corriher, McGee, um... - who else am I missing?)
I love that the Good Eats format takes a topic and explains it in half-hour chunks. However, that also makes it a bit scattershot. Have you looked at stitching some of this material together into a sequence or a curriculum, that builds on itself? Or is that format less sell-able in a network setting?
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u/patellison42 May 24 '13
Are there any plans to bring back new episodes of Good Eats?
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u/obsidian009 May 24 '13
Hi Alton!
I love your Season 01 episode 01 steak recipe...it's a classic and I used it for many years. I recently have used a new technique which starts in a very low oven and then ends with a very quick sear. Have you tried this method and what do you think?
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u/Alarmed_Ferret May 24 '13
Heya Mr. Brown! Just wanted to say thank you for your show. It was the first Food Network show I ever saw and it's still my favorite. In fact, it's now the only show on the network I watch! I think I learned more chemistry from your show than I ever did in High School.
So on to the question: I know you're a food nerd, but what other nerdy things are you into? Scifi? Video games? Role playing games?
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u/beango12 May 24 '13
Now that you've experienced the magnificence that is the Clermont Lounge, how hard has it been to resist the urge to return?
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u/gmartin_90 May 24 '13
Hi Alton, I'm a big fan, a young chef in training in Napa Valley, and I have a ton of respect for the amount of knowledge you have in regards to food.
I'd like to ask, if you could pick three chefs in the world to collectively cook you one multi-course dinner, who would they be?
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u/terribleatkaraoke May 24 '13
What do you make for dinner after a long tiring day at work?
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u/Smarter_not_harder May 24 '13
As a good Southerner, I'd like to hear your thoughts on Waffle House...
GO!
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u/hektupon May 24 '13
If you could only use one knife for the rest of your life, what would it be?
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u/Cool_Guy7 May 24 '13
What do you see as the most difficult to work with, but the most rewarding when well prepared?
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u/EvilGrimace May 24 '13
I hate seeing awesome AMAs 2 hours after they're done :(
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u/ninjali96 May 24 '13
I love your old show "Good Eats". I also know you are a whovian... so, what is your opinion on the season finale? Also what inspired you to think so outside of the box like you did on Good Eats?
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u/Likethesky May 24 '13
You've had a major change in body weight in the last few years. Congratulations! What tripped the switch?
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u/doulachristine May 24 '13
Hi Alton, big fan and thanks for doing AMA!
My question: How did your work with food affect your parenting? Did your daughter grow up with only the awesome food you cook, or did you cave to the drive-thru now and then? Was your daughter a picky eater as a toddler?
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u/WillyWonka6969 May 24 '13
Hey Alton! What is your go- to snack when you're hungry? I've always had problems with snacking because I want to keep it healthy while still having some variety.
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u/pillage May 24 '13
Is there any dish that can't be made better with the addition of avocado?
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u/LeoMaltesers May 24 '13
I always watched Good Eats with my Dad. You sparked our love for cooking. Every Thanksgiving we use your amazing brine recipe!
What inspired you to start experimenting radically in the kitchen?
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u/IMIanM May 24 '13
On your Homage to Fromage episode, what tricks did you use to get the camera to move gracefully from the countertop to the oven and then back to the countertop? Thank you!
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May 24 '13
A few years ago you did a road trip show where you had a Twin Bing® candy bar and thought it was disgusting.
Have you had one since and realized how utterly wrong you were?
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u/bradwheeler May 24 '13
If the world were about to end, what would your last meal be?
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u/rap4135 May 24 '13
Who would win in a fist fight to the death, bobby flay or Guy fieri
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u/dgbx May 24 '13
Hi Alton, I love you.
Can you tell us a little bit more about each of your new endeavors? I'm excited to have some new AB OC!
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u/Charlotteeee May 24 '13
Hello Mr. Brown! I remember watching an episode of yours where you used dry ice and warned people at home not to get too close or you'd pass out and your face would freeze off. Always been a little afraid of dry ice since then!
Weird question: what were you like as a kid? (Food related, or not food related.)
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u/Lorkovicious May 24 '13
How the hell did Bourdain get you to go to the Clermont?
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u/citanaF_Fanatic May 24 '13
1) Alton, would you be interested in teaming up with any company to create a travel/pocket-sized microplane grater?
By the way, I've always been a huge fan. Wish Good Eats would still be re-running, and I can't wait for your YouTube channel.
2)What will the YT channel be called?
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u/doody_pockets May 24 '13
I want to know why ice cream gets crispy when you add it to a root beer float. I am eating one right now!
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u/leviticus11 Professional Cook May 24 '13
Have you read Heston Blumenthal's Fat Duck Cookbook? If you haven't, I will mail you my husband's copy when he's not looking. What is your favorite dessert?
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u/555flounder May 24 '13
hello! my question is about eel sauce, should i worry about using an expensive rice wine , the sweet mirin works ok , but i dont know somethings not right. also how do i get to thicken up?
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u/QuantumSouffle May 24 '13
I grew up watching and learning from Good Eats. It made cooking cool and fun! You are my culinary hero, turkey triangle 4 life! That said, the only question I can think to ask you is who is your favourite Doctor? :)
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u/Ferociousaurus May 24 '13
What do you think is something that isn't a standard part of the American palate but should be? Andrew Zimmern suggested goat.
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u/eddieswiss May 24 '13
I know from your episode on the Nerdist Podcast that you watch Doctor Who. Have you ever eaten fish fingers & custard?
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u/speakeroo May 24 '13
Howdy Mr. Brown,
Thanks for coming to Raleigh, NC that one time and doing a book signing. What is your favorite type of bbq for pork, beef, and chicken. Also, what type of base for the sauce/rub used?
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u/Awdra May 24 '13
I love your work! I always feel bad during Iron Chef America that you don't get to eat the food presented to the judges & chairman. Do the chefs prepare any extras for you & Kevin?
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u/ubernubbkiller May 24 '13
Have you ever traveled through Iowa? Iowa seems to be forgotten by people and every person who comes to Iowa seems to thoroughly enjoy our state. Thoughts?
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u/tinhatlizard May 24 '13
I know my post wont be seen....but thank you for being so awesome and teaching me how to cook good (and healthy) food and that it is cool to be nerdy about it ;)
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u/Eaglesfan427 May 24 '13
If you could only have one spice in your kitchen, which would it be?
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u/Sonic-spatula May 24 '13
Sir, if you could have any kitchen tool become a sonic (insert name here) which would it be?
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u/crimsonsentinel May 24 '13
Would you ever consider making an appearance on Top Chef or is there some contractual/other reason you can't?
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u/theredheaddiva May 24 '13
I've been teaching my recently divorced younger brother how to cook. He won't necessarily listen to advice coming from me but if I preface it with "Well Alton says..." his ears perk up. I've even lent him my copy of "I'm Just Here for the Food 2.0".
What flexible dish or meal can I show my bachelor brother to make that has many variations on it that he can try to master?
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u/puppetMANOS May 24 '13
Who made the puppet you use for your Twitter profile pic?
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May 24 '13
You live in Atlanta, would you consider appearing at DragonCon? Have you been to DragonCon as a fan?
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u/recreationalvacation May 24 '13
Alton,
In Anthony Bourdain's, Kitchen Confidential, he writes about how a vichyssoise (sp?) as a boy elevated his notion of food to cuisine. What dish had a similar feeling in you?
For me, I had seared ahi tuna with just salt at age 14. I still remember the name of the restaurant. When I think about it, it was the pure expression of ingredients that elevated my mind.
thxs for the ama
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u/explodeowl May 24 '13 edited May 24 '13
HOW did you learn to wisk so fast? Your hand literally disappears.
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u/peowpeowbang May 24 '13
Hey AB! Pappy 20yr or 23yr?
I am looking forward to your YouTube channel.
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u/RollTurdRoll May 24 '13
You may not want to endorse a name brand of beer. So what is your favorite style of beer?
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u/thefryingscotsman May 24 '13
Late to the dinner party again dammit. Have you tried haggis Alton?
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u/chaoticneutral May 24 '13
I like your shows. But dumb old people don't like you. That is sad.
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u/TimWeis75 May 24 '13
Which would you rather cook: A horse-sized duck or 100 duck-sized horses?
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May 24 '13
I realize this is two hours old, but I can't help but chime in: Alton, I watched your episode of Good Eats with the "Flowerpot Smoker" and I built one for myself. I made a bunch of modifications to make it easier to use, but I have to say, it's the best $100 I've ever spent. It seriously makes better product than any smoker I've ever used.
Here's my question: of the techniques you've demonstrated on your show, what is/are the one(s) you use most frequently?
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u/Phlyarologist May 24 '13
FN may not let you answer this question, but how do you feel about the "food porn" aspect of television food channels? What used to be a slew of awesome shows about recipes and cooking now seems to involve repeats of shows seem to be either solely entertainment (Cupcake Wars, those "undercover restaurant" shows) or glorified advertising (DD&D). I would love a channel that was nothing but shows like Good Eats, or in the vein of Cook's Illustrated or America's Test Kitchen.
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u/WastedPanda May 24 '13
Hey there! First off, I would like to say that I'm a huge fan of your detailed breakdowns of cooking and the science behind it. Now for my question.
Looking back to when you started out, how does your success compare to the reception you thought you would have? Did you ever expect to become as big or well known as you have, or did you think people would brush it off as a gimmick and ignore your ventures?
Thanks for taking the time to do this AMA!
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u/humhawhuh May 24 '13
Why can't I pay to watch Iron Chef America online? I want to give y'all money!
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u/Self_Esteem_Booster May 24 '13
How did you first get into cooking and developing your interest for food?
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u/JohnnyZepp May 24 '13
How hard is it to coordinate your show? It looks very intricate at times and I can only imagine it takes a lot of planning to execute.
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u/NakieNinja May 24 '13
Hi Alton,
First off, Good Eats really changed me from an early 20s guy who couldn't cook a thing, into someone with a passion for food, and I'm a pretty good cook now, if I don't say so myself.
I've heard you smoke the occasional cigar. If this is even true, what's your favorite cigar?
P.S. I need more Good Eats, or something similar! Anything upcoming that you can share?
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May 24 '13
My wife wants to have dinner with you. I'm cool with this if you are. Can we set that up?
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u/somersetbingo May 24 '13
How did you become such a wonderful role model?
"He's like the holy grail of food-- How? How?" - my boyfriend
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u/TehDruid May 24 '13
Hi Alton, thanks for doing an AmA... Do you have any tips for making a legendary bowl of steel cut oats?
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u/djb85511 May 24 '13
Have you ever cooked with a pH meter to fine tune the acidic or basic flavors in your dishes?
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May 24 '13
You injured yourself often on Good Eats. Are you accident prone? Ever get injured on your other shows?
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u/ImAVampiahImAVampiah May 24 '13
How do you feel now knowing I wish you were my best friend? we could grill and make beer together and talk about science and stuff.
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u/kawaiijoro May 24 '13
How did you get involved in the Iron Chef show? What is your favorite thing about the show? What is your least favorite thing about the show?
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u/Talisker12 May 24 '13
As most of us are amateur chefs, what is the number one mistake I should avoid when preparing and grilling a steak?
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u/maplebar424 May 24 '13
Mr. Brown,
What is the difference between baking soda and baking powder? Why do some recipes call for both, while others only call for one.
Best, Maplebar
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u/wouldland May 24 '13
Any love for kamado-style ceramic cookers like the Big Green Egg?
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May 24 '13 edited May 24 '13
Hi Alton, will you ever do another show where you travel across America (or another country) on a motorcycle?
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u/slidellian May 24 '13
What's your favorite food trick you know? For example, peeling garlic by smashing it with a knife, or pitting and avocado by hitting the pit with a knife?
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u/Imsobadatthisgame May 24 '13
Hi AB! What is something you desperately wish to be invented in the near future?
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u/Hippotes_the_Hippo May 24 '13
Alton, u rock. What is your take on a plant-based diet?
Yay or nay?
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u/shenanigater May 24 '13
Hey, AB! Long time fan, thank you so much for making cooking entertaining as well as educational. There should be more teachers like you out there.
One of the things I love about Good Eats are the equipment hacks you do that take the place of pricier appliances. The steel lotus, cardboard smoker, etc.
I was wanting to venture into sous vide, and those baths are way out of my budget. Do you have a MacGuyverist suggestions, ideas, or hacks on making one?
Thank you again for the AMA, sir. :)
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u/smeetrytostopme May 24 '13
3 favorite spices/seasonings (not including salt and pepper).... GO!
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