Exploring the Culinary Diversity of Indianapolis with Youssef and Ariel

In this episode of the Okayest Cook Podcast, host Chris Whonsetler interviews chefs Youssef Boudarin and Ariel Hendrickson about their culinary experiences and involvement in the Indianapolis food scene. The discussion covers their work at Bluebeard, their collaboration on various food events such as the Epicurean Festival and MOkAO Coffee and Chocolate Festival, and the importance of supporting local and international cuisines. They emphasize the significance of good ingredients, community support, and cultural diversity in enriching the food landscape. The episode also highlights the challenges faced by immigrant chefs and the importance of curiosity and open-mindedness when it comes to trying new foods.

Find Ariel:

Social: https://www.instagram.com/

Find Youssef:

Social: https://www.instagram.com/

Event Links: 

https://www.instagram.com/mokao_indy/

https://www.instagram.com/epicureanindy/

~ Support Okayest Cook by shopping with our favorite brands ~

Anova: We love their Precision Cooker 3.0 & vac sealers - https://bit.ly/3WT36ZR

MEAT!: Powerful meat grinders - https://bit.ly/4ho5a4r

Hedley & Bennett: Quality Aprons - https://hedley-and-bennett.sjv.io/EEzBq2

Yeti: The king of coolers - https://yetius.pxf.io/a1NJXq

Lodge: Cast Iron cooking - https://lodgecastiron.pxf.io/zxe7dr

~

00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter

00:32 Welcome to the Okayest Cook Podcast

00:45 Meet Youssef and Ariel

01:03 Seasonal Weather Woes

02:23 Foraging and Local Experts

07:56 Notable Meals of the Week

09:05 Epicurean Festival and Community Support

19:43 The Art of Coffee and Chocolate

32:21 The Struggles and Triumphs of Immigrant Chefs

33:41 Supporting International Chefs and Restaurants

34:26 Epicurean: A Platform for Diversity and Inclusion

39:03 The Importance of Genuine Support for Small Businesses

41:57 Expanding the Reach of Epicurean

51:52 The Value of Local Ingredients and Farmers Markets

56:08 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

Mentioned in Episode: 

French Toast Recipe: https://www.okayestcook.com/recipes/milk-bread-french-toast

Harder Brunch Guide & Anchor: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0XrzZJCypWQo2BdRTRUSMf?si=2fecfd02c06b4f33

Peony Festival: https://www.indianapeonyfestival.com/

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Crew: 

Chris Whonsetler

Email: [email protected]

Web: ChrisWhonsetler.com

Instagram: @FromFieldToTable & @WhonPhoto