Ingredient Insiders: Where Chefs Talk

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Chef Bob Somsith of Lao’d Bar in Austin, Texas, for a conversation about Lao cuisine, family traditions, and the ingredients that bring his cooking to life.

The featured ingredient is tamarind, known for its distinctive tangy, sweet, and sour flavor. Bob explores what makes tamarind such an important ingredient in cooking, how its unique flavor profile adds complexity to dishes, and the ways it can help create the balance of flavors that makes Lao cuisine so distinctive.

Bob also shares the story of how he learned to cook in his mother’s kitchen, reflecting on the family experiences and cultural traditions that shaped his relationship with food. He discusses his connection to Lao cuisine and how those early lessons continue to influence his cooking today at Lao’d Bar.

From the memories and flavors of his childhood to the vibrant culinary traditions of Laos, this episode celebrates the power of food to connect us to our heritage, with tamarind taking center stage as an ingredient that brings boldness and balance to the table.

Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!

Follow @bob_somsith @laodbar @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshop

In partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/

Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Chef Ali Clem, chef and owner behind the Texas-style smoked brisket at la Barbecue in Austin, Texas, a Michelin-starred barbecue destination.

The featured ingredient is black pepper, a cornerstone of Texas barbecue and an essential part of building the bold, flavorful bark that makes smoked brisket so memorable. Ali discusses the role black pepper plays in her approach to barbecue, how it complements the rich flavor of brisket, and why this everyday spice is so important to achieving the perfect balance of seasoning.

Ali also shares her approach to barbecue, exploring the techniques, traditions, and attention to detail that go into producing exceptional smoked meats. From the patience required for low-and-slow cooking to the importance of letting quality ingredients shine, she offers insight into the craft behind Texas-style barbecue.

From the smokehouse to the spice rack, this episode explores how a simple ingredient like black pepper can make a lasting impression when combined with skill, tradition, and a deep respect for the craft.

Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!

Follow @aliiiiiiiiiiiic @la_barbecue @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshop

In partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/

Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Chef Felipe Riccio of Goodnight Hospitality in Houston, Texas, for a conversation about culinary influences, unexpected ingredients, and the experiences that shape a chef’s career.

The featured ingredient is licorice, an ingredient that Felipe and at least one host share a love for. They explore what makes licorice so distinctive, its unique flavor profile, and the ways it can be used to add depth and complexity to food.

Felipe also takes listeners through his culinary journey, sharing the experiences and influences that have shaped his approach to cooking and helped define his career. From his early experiences in the kitchen to his work with Goodnight Hospitality, Felipe reflects on the people, places, and lessons that have influenced him along the way.

From an often-overlooked ingredient to the path that led Felipe to Houston, this episode is a conversation about curiosity, creativity, and the many influences that shape a chef’s point of view.

Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!

Follow @felipericcio @marchhtx @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshop

In partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/

Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Chef Aaron Bludorn, chef and owner of Bludorn and Navy Blue in Houston, Texas.

The featured ingredient of the episode is oysters, an ingredient that Aaron and the hosts share a deep appreciation for. They discuss what makes oysters so special, the many ways chefs can showcase their unique flavors, and why this beloved ingredient continues to inspire chefs and diners alike.

Aaron also reflects on the books, people, and experiences that shaped his culinary career, including the profound impact that Anthony Bourdain’s Kitchen Confidential had on him. He shares how reading Bourdain’s account of life in professional kitchens influenced his perspective on the restaurant world and helped inspire his own journey as a chef.

From the briny flavors of oysters to the books that can inspire an entire career, this episode explores the ingredients and experiences that help shape a chef’s identity and passion for cooking.

Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!

Follow @aaronbludorn @bludornhtx @navybluehtx @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshop

In partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/

Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph, Pastry Chef and Owner of Emmer & Rye Hospitality, for a conversation about creativity, travel, and the pursuit of a lasting culinary legacy.

The featured ingredient of the episode is matcha, an ingredient Tavel has developed a deep appreciation for. Tavel shares what draws him to matcha, how he uses it in his cooking and pastry work, and what makes its flavor so distinctive and versatile.

Tavel also reflects on his travels to Japan, exploring the food, culture, and experiences that have influenced his approach to cooking. He takes listeners through his own culinary journey and career, discussing the experiences that shaped him as a chef and the lessons he's learned along the way.

At the heart of the conversation is a question that goes beyond food: What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind? Tavel shares his vision for the future and his desire to create an impact that extends beyond the dishes he creates and the restaurants he operates.

From the traditions of Japan to the creative possibilities of matcha, this episode is an inspiring conversation about curiosity, craftsmanship, and building something that lasts.

Click here to donate to the Bristol-Joseph Scholarship Fund here.

Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!

Follow @tavel19 @emmerandrye @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshop

In partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/

Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Chef Amanda Rockman, Chef and Owner of Rockman Coffee and Bakeshop in Austin, Texas.

Amanda shares the story of her remarkable culinary journey, from working in the demanding kitchens of Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants to opening and operating her own neighborhood bakery. She discusses the challenges and rewards of making the transition from fine dining to entrepreneurship and how her experiences have shaped the way she approaches baking and hospitality today.

The featured ingredient of the episode is one that may surprise you: prunes. Amanda makes the case for this often-overlooked fruit, sharing why she loves cooking and baking with prunes and how their natural sweetness, richness, and versatility can add something special to both sweet and savory recipes.

Amanda also takes listeners behind the scenes of her experience competing on Beat Bobby Flay, sharing what it was like to step into the kitchen and compete against one of the most recognizable chefs on television.

From fine dining to neighborhood baking, this episode is a celebration of culinary evolution, unexpected ingredients, and the courage it takes to forge your own path in the food world.

Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!

Follow @arockman @rockmanatx @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshop

In partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/

Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Juan Cardenas of IRCA for a deep dive into the world of professional pastry and gelato ingredients.

Juan shares his own journey as a pastry chef and explains how his experience working in professional kitchens informs his approach to helping chefs find the right ingredients for their creations. He also introduces listeners to IRCA’s extensive assortment of professional products for pastry, gelato, chocolate, and more, exploring how these ingredients can help chefs achieve consistency, creativity, and exceptional flavor.

The featured ingredient of the episode is pistachio, one of the most beloved and versatile ingredients in the pastry world. Juan discusses what makes pistachios such a valuable ingredient for chefs and highlights IRCA’s unique range of pistachio offerings, including the different ways they can be used to bring rich, distinctive pistachio flavor to desserts and other creations.

From pastry kitchens to gelato counters, this episode explores the ingredients, expertise, and techniques that help professional chefs turn great ideas into exceptional food.

Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!

Follow @ircagroup_americas @juancardenaso @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshop

In partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/

Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Chef Charles Webb, founder and Global Experiences Curator of Chef On Tour, for a conversation about food, wellness, and the power of culinary experiences to connect us with the world.

The featured ingredient of the episode is acai, as Charles explores the origins, flavor, and versatility of this vibrant fruit and the many ways chefs can incorporate it into their cooking.

Charles also shares his philosophy of food as medicine, discussing the connection between what we eat, how we feel, and the role that nutritious ingredients can play in our everyday lives. He explains how his work with Chef On Tour gives clients the opportunity to experience different cultures through food, creating immersive culinary journeys that bring the flavors, traditions, and ingredients of different parts of the world directly to the table.

From the health-focused qualities of acai to the transformative power of travel and cuisine, this episode explores how food can nourish the body, inspire curiosity, and bring people closer to cultures around the globe.

Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!

Follow @chefcharleswebb  @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshop

In partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/

Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse sit down with Lena Ciardullo, Executive Chef of the legendary Union Square Cafe in New York City.

Lena shares the story of her journey to becoming Executive Chef of one of America's most iconic restaurants, reflecting on the mentors, experiences, and philosophy that have shaped her approach to cooking. She discusses what it means to carry forward the legacy of Union Square Cafe while continuing to evolve its menu with fresh ideas and seasonal ingredients.

The featured ingredient of the episode is chicories, and Lena explains why she loves cooking with this diverse family of greens. From their pleasantly bitter flavor to their versatility in salads, roasted dishes, and beyond, she shares tips for bringing out the best in chicories and why they deserve a place in every chef's repertoire.

The conversation also explores the remarkable history of Union Square Cafe, from its founding as one of Danny Meyer's original restaurants to its lasting influence on New York City's dining scene and the hospitality industry as a whole.

From timeless hospitality to seasonal cooking, this episode is a celebration of the chefs, ingredients, and restaurants that continue to shape American cuisine.

Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!

Follow @lenaciardullo @unionsquarecafe @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshop

In partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/

Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios

On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Carolina Aboumrad, co-founder of Huitla, for a fascinating exploration of one of Mexico's most unique and celebrated ingredients: huitlacoche, often called the "Mexican truffle."

Carolina shares the rich history of huitlacoche, explaining how this naturally occurring corn fungus has been prized in Mexican cuisine for centuries for its earthy, smoky, umami-rich flavor. She discusses why an ingredient once misunderstood has become a favorite among innovative chefs and how its distinctive taste continues to inspire creative dishes in restaurants across the country.

The conversation also explores the many culinary applications of huitlacoche—from tacos, quesadillas, and tamales to pastas, sauces, soups, and even unexpected modern creations. Carolina explains how Huitla is introducing more chefs to this remarkable ingredient while honoring its cultural heritage and helping expand its place in American kitchens.

Whether you're already a fan of Mexican cuisine or discovering huitlacoche for the first time, this episode offers a deeper appreciation for the history, versatility, and incredible flavor of one of the world's most distinctive ingredients.

Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE!

Follow @dedismo @huitlacoche.bodega @ingredientsinsiders @wherechefsshop

In partnership with The Chefs’ Warehouse, a specialty food distributor that has been purveying high-quality artisan ingredients to chefs for over 30 years. https://www.chefswarehouse.com/

Produced by Gotham Production Studios. Find them on Instagram: @gothamproductionstudios