Unpretentious Eats: Tasting Life Through Food, Wine, and Spirits

Alyssa Van Osdol
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Unpretentious Eats: Tasting Life Through Food, Wine, and Spirits

Unpretentious Eats: Tasting Life Through Food, Wine, and Spirits is your passport to a flavorful journey where life’s most profound moments are savored, one bite, sip, and story at a time. Join us as we explore the deep connections between the food we eat, the wine we drink, and the spirits that elevate our experiences. Through candid conversations and thoughtful musings, we uncover how the simplest pleasures can unlock the complexities of life itself. No pretension—just honest reflections and rich flavors that remind us to live fully, eat well, and drink with purpose.

Episodes

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    Episode 4: Prohibition 2.0? A History of Mistakes We Shouldn’t Repeat

    In this episode of Unpretentious Eats, we dive deep into the history of Prohibition, exploring how the 18th Amendment failed spectacularly and its lasting impact on the U.S. Today’s discussion touches on the rise of neo-prohibitionism and its troubling resemblance to the ill-fated Prohibition Era. From Oregon’s controversial "Rethink the Drink" initiative to the unintended consequences of alcohol bans, we break down the connection between past policies and modern-day restrictions. Along the way, we uncover how Prohibition not only led to an underground bootlegging economy but also fueled crime, corruption, and economic setbacks. Join us for an eye-opening look at why revisiting Prohibition is a misguided path and how we can learn from history to make better choices about alcohol policies today. Plus, stick around for a brief update on my current obsession of the week – a domestic liqueur that might just become your new favorite! Listen in for an engaging discussion about the past, present, and future of alcohol regulation—and stick around for my current obsession of the week! Article- https://www.wineenthusiast.com/culture/wine/the-neo-prohibitionists-are-coming/?srsltid=AfmBOoo7YbkvHUYrSJFD0oSe12m7rzhRdhQiDta-dm-P-YGvvRssmxaX Heirloom Pineapple Amaro- https://heirloomliqueurs.com/products/pineapple-amaro/ The Juicy Rabbit Cocktail Recipe- https://unpretentious-eats.com/2025/02/21/the-juicy-root-a-unique-cachaca-cocktail-experience/

    22 min

  2. FEB 11

    Episode 3: Pretentious vs Unpretentious Foods: The Truth Behind Overhyped Delicacies

    In this episode of Unpretentious Eats, we explore what makes food and drink “pretentious” and how marketing, exclusivity, and perception play a role. From luxury items like caviar and foie gras to the overhyped status of Cabernet Sauvignon, we break down five popular foods that have been inflated in price and status. The focus? Offering simple, unpretentious alternatives that are just as satisfying. Join us for a fun, lighthearted look at how we can enjoy great food without the fuss! Follow, share, and leave a review if you enjoyed the episode!

    19 min

  3. FEB 4

    Episode 2: Is Rum Ready to Be the Next It Spirit?

    In this episode, I explore why rum should be the next trending spirit in the world of premium alcohol. Despite its rich history and unique flavor profiles, rum is often overlooked in favor of spirits like tequila and whiskey. I dive into the fascinating history of rum, its current reputation in the U.S., and how modern variations of rum have impacted its image. By the end, I'll share five key reasons why rum deserves more attention and could soon become the next big thing in premium spirits. Cookbook: Sunlight & Breadcrumbs by Rene Erickson (https://booklarder.com/products/sunlight-and-breadcrumbs-making-food-with-creativity-and-curiosity) Rum Old Fashion Recipe: -3oz Aged Rum -1/4-1/2oz Demerara Sugar Syrup (heat 1/2cup demerara sugar w/ 1/2cup water on the stove just until dissolved) -Few Dashes Bittermens Tiki Bitters -Expressed Orange Peel Combine all ingredients, except the orange pee,l in a mixing glass with ice and stir for 10 seconds. Strain in to an old fashioned glass with a large ice cube and garnish w/the expressed orange peel.

    24 min

  4. JAN 30

    Episode 1: An Unpretentious Introduction

    In this very first episode of Unpretentious Eats, I’m diving into my personal journey—sharing the highs, lows, and all the twists and turns that led me to create this podcast. From being the awkward, creative kid who loved cooking to surviving a near-death experience, traveling solo through Europe, and finally finding my place in the world of food and drink, I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes look at what’s shaped my passion for hospitality. This podcast is all about breaking down the barriers around food, wine, and hospitality, discussing the history and even politics of food, and making it all feel accessible and fun, no matter who you are. Cheers! Wine: Carboniste- Sea Urchin (https://carboniste.com/wines)

    18 min
  • 4 Episodes

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About

Unpretentious Eats: Tasting Life Through Food, Wine, and Spirits is your passport to a flavorful journey where life’s most profound moments are savored, one bite, sip, and story at a time. Join us as we explore the deep connections between the food we eat, the wine we drink, and the spirits that elevate our experiences. Through candid conversations and thoughtful musings, we uncover how the simplest pleasures can unlock the complexities of life itself. No pretension—just honest reflections and rich flavors that remind us to live fully, eat well, and drink with purpose.

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