Ingredient Insiders: Where Chefs Talk

The Chefs' Warehouse
  • 4.9 (88)
  • Food
  • Updated Weekly

Inside the minds of the world’s top chefs and how they source the ingredients that inspire them in the kitchen. Join The Chefs’ Warehouse’s John Magazino and Andrea Parkins on a culinary journey with leading food makers.

  1. 115. Celery: Chef Sarah Grueneberg

    14h ago

    115. Celery: Chef Sarah Grueneberg

    On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Sarah Grueneberg, James Beard Award-winning chef and owner of Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio in Chicago. Known for her inventive approach to Italian cuisine and her passion for exceptional ingredients, Sarah shares the experiences and influences that have shaped her culinary career. The conversation dives into her surprising love for celery, exploring why this often-overlooked ingredient deserves a starring role in the kitchen and how she incorporates it into some of her favorite dishes. Sarah also gives listeners a peek behind the curtain of her "That Salad Though" recipe, discussing the ingredients, inspiration, and philosophy that have made it a standout favorite. Along the way, she reveals another source of inspiration outside the kitchen—her love of jam bands. Filled with stories, culinary insights, and plenty of laughs, this episode offers a fascinating look into the mind of one of America's most celebrated chefs and the ingredients that inspire her every day. Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE! Follow @chefsarahjayne @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

    58 min
  2. 114. Citrus Zest: Bianca Kaprielian of Fruit World | From the Farm

    Jun 15

    114. Citrus Zest: Bianca Kaprielian of Fruit World | From the Farm

    On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Bianca Kaprielian, Co-CEO and Owner of Fruit World, a company with deep roots in California agriculture. Bianca shares the story of her family's history as fruit growers and how generations of experience have shaped Fruit World's commitment to quality, innovation, and exceptional citrus. The conversation explores Bianca's favorite citrus varieties, from everyday staples to unique specialty fruits, and dives into the friendly debate between California and Texas grapefruit—including what makes each region's fruit distinct. In this citrus-packed conversation, listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the farmers, growers, and experts who help bring bright, vibrant flavors to kitchens across the country. Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE! Follow @fruitworldco @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

    35 min
  3. 113. Citrus Zest: Chef Hillary Sterling

    Jun 8

    113. Citrus Zest: Chef Hillary Sterling

    On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse sit down with Chef Hillary Sterling, Executive Chef of Ci Siamo and author of the new cookbook AMMAZZA! Hillary shares the story behind her culinary journey and the influences that have helped shape her distinctive cooking style. The conversation explores her love of citrus zest and how a simple ingredient can transform a dish with brightness, complexity, and balance. Hillary also discusses the inspiration behind her new cookbook, AMMAZZA!, and the recipes, techniques, and experiences that inspired its creation. Filled with great stories, culinary insights, and a healthy dose of wanderlust, this episode is a celebration of the ingredients, cultures, and experiences that make cooking such a rewarding craft. Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE! Follow @chefhillarysterling @cisiamonyc @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

    46 min
  4. 112. Baby Broccoli: Chef Thai Dang and Alex Richardson from Bimi Baby Broccoli

    Jun 1

    112. Baby Broccoli: Chef Thai Dang and Alex Richardson from Bimi Baby Broccoli

    On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse are joined by Chef Thai Dang, the culinary force behind Chicago favorites HaiSous, Crying Tiger, and Ca Phe Da. Thai shares how his Vietnamese heritage continues to shape his approach to cooking, from the flavors he grew up with to the dishes he serves today. The conversation dives into Thai’s surprising love for broccolini, why it has become one of his favorite vegetables to cook with, and how its versatility allows it to shine in a variety of cuisines. They also revisit the infamous Sriracha shortage, discussing how it impacted chefs and restaurants. In the second part of the episode, John and Andrea welcome Alex Richardson, agrologist for Bimi Baby Broccoli. Alex takes listeners inside the world of specialty produce, explaining how Bimi Baby Broccoli is grown and what makes it different from traditional broccoli. From its sweeter flavor and tender stems to the farming practices that help it thrive, Alex shares why chefs around the world have embraced this unique vegetable. From Vietnamese-inspired cuisine to innovative produce, this episode celebrates the ingredients, traditions, and agricultural expertise that help great food come to life. Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE! Follow @thai_dang_ @bimi_us @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

    1h 16m
  5. 111. Persimmons: Chef Jeremy Fox and Sean Mindrum of Comanche Creek Farms | Holiday Miniseries

    12/15/2025

    111. Persimmons: Chef Jeremy Fox and Sean Mindrum of Comanche Creek Farms | Holiday Miniseries

    In this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse sit down with Chef Jeremy Fox, acclaimed chef and owner of Rustic Canyon in Santa Monica, California. Known for his ingredient-driven, “seed-to-stalk” philosophy, Jeremy shares how his approach to cooking celebrates seasonality and sustainability while transforming humble ingredients into extraordinary dishes. They also discuss his love of persimmons—how he incorporates them into his menus and even uses them as natural décor to bring warmth and beauty into his restaurants. In the second half of the episode, John and Andrea are joined by Sean Mindrum, farmer and owner of Comanche Creek Farms. Sean offers an inside look into how his farm prioritizes regenerative agriculture, nurturing the soil and environment while producing some of the finest persimmons, tomatoes, okra, lettuce, and more. From the kitchen to the farm, this episode is a celebration of the synergy between chefs and growers—proving that the best dishes start with respect for the land, the seasons, and the ingredients themselves. Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE! Follow @chefjeremyfox @comanchecreekfarms @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

    1h 4m
  6. 110. Olive Oil: Chef Karen Akunowicz and Joanne Lacina of Olive Oil Lovers | Holiday Miniseries

    12/08/2025

    110. Olive Oil: Chef Karen Akunowicz and Joanne Lacina of Olive Oil Lovers | Holiday Miniseries

    In this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse welcome Karen Akunowicz, James Beard Award–winning chef and owner of Fox & the Knife in Boston, Massachusetts.  Karen shares how she developed her bold, crave-worthy style of cooking, blending Italian inspiration with her own creative flair. They discuss her experiences on Food Network competition shows like Tournament of Champions, what drives her love of competition, and how that spirit continues to push her and her culinary team to new heights. Karen also has a new cookbook, Crave: Bold Recipes That Make You Want Seconds. In the second half of the episode, John and Andrea are joined by Joanne Lacina, President and Founder of Olive Oil Lovers. Joanne offers an insider’s look into the fascinating world of olive oil, explaining the meaning of olio nuovo and how expert tasters can identify an oil’s region just by its flavor. She also shares insights into what makes truly exceptional olive oil—and why freshness, origin, and care matter so much. From the thrill of culinary competition to the subtleties of olive oil craftsmanship, this episode serves up flavor, expertise, and inspiration in equal measure. Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE! Follow @chefkarenakunowicz @oliveoillovers @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

    1h 9m
  7. 109. Goat Cheese: Allison Hooper, Daryll Breau, and Austen Czymmek of Vermont Creamery | Holiday Miniseries

    12/01/2025

    109. Goat Cheese: Allison Hooper, Daryll Breau, and Austen Czymmek of Vermont Creamery | Holiday Miniseries

    On this episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse sit down with Allison Hooper, cheesemaker, entrepreneur, and founder of Vermont Creamery. Allison shares the inspiring story of how she founded the company that helped put American artisan cheese on the map. She reflects on the collaborative culture she built with other pioneering female cheesemakers and offers valuable advice for anyone looking to start a career in the cheese business today. In the second part of the episode, John and Andrea visit the farm with goat farmer Daryll Breau, who provides an inside look at what goes into caring for goats, from their diet and health to the rhythms of farm life that make great milk possible. Finally, the conversation continues with Austen Czymmek, Vermont Creamery’s Lead Scientist of Research and Development, who dives into the science and artistry behind Vermont Creamery’s award-winning cheeses. Austen discusses the variety of cheese offerings, what makes them unique, and how the brand continues to innovate while honoring traditional cheesemaking techniques. From pasture to creamery, this episode is a deep and delicious look into the people, passion, and precision that make Vermont Creamery a leader in American artisan cheese. Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE! Follow @vermontcreamery @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

    1h 16m
  8. 108. Allen Brothers Beef: Chef Danny Ganem and Harris Heckelman of Chef’s Warehouse | Holiday Miniseries

    11/17/2025

    108. Allen Brothers Beef: Chef Danny Ganem and Harris Heckelman of Chef’s Warehouse | Holiday Miniseries

    On this special live episode of Ingredient Insiders, hosts John and Andrea from Chef’s Warehouse sit down with Miami-based Chef Danny Ganem along with Harris Heckelman, Executive Vice President of Protein at Chef’s Warehouse. Together, they dive into Danny’s culinary journey—from how he first discovered his passion for cooking to how he built his career in Miami’s vibrant food scene. Danny shares how he highlights unique Florida ingredients across his restaurants and why sourcing locally matters to him. Harris and Danny also break down their collaborative process for selecting the right beef cuts, discussing flavor, consistency, sustainability, and what it takes to meet the high standards of Danny’s kitchens. The conversation expands to the current challenges facing the beef industry, offering an honest look at supply chains, farming practices, and the future of premium protein. A flavorful and insightful episode for chefs, food lovers, and anyone curious about what it takes to build a standout menu. Find Ingredient Insiders on YouTube HERE! Follow @danny.ganem @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

    46 min
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Inside the minds of the world’s top chefs and how they source the ingredients that inspire them in the kitchen. Join The Chefs’ Warehouse’s John Magazino and Andrea Parkins on a culinary journey with leading food makers.

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