Cooking shows have long been a popular genre on television, and with the rise of streaming services like Netflix, foodies can now indulge in their love for food and cooking anytime, anywhere.
From baking competitions to travel and cooking shows, there is something for everyone.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which food and cooking shows on Netflix are worth your time.
In this article, we will explore the best food and cooking shows on Netflix that will tantalize your taste buds and inspire you to get into the kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, these shows are sure to entertain and educate, and maybe even help you master a new culinary skill or two.
So grab a snack, settle in, and let’s dive into the mouth-watering world of food and cooking shows on Netflix.
1. The Curious Creations of Christine McConnell
The Curious Creations of Christine McConnell is a Netflix original series that premiered in 2018.
The show is a mix of baking and crafting, with a dark and spooky twist.
The show follows Christine McConnell, a talented baker and artist, as she creates creepy and intricate edible and decorative creations in her home.
The show features a variety of characters, including some creepy and unusual puppets, and also includes tips and tutorials on how to create some of the recipes and crafts featured in each episode.
In addition to the creative projects, the show also includes a storyline that follows Christine and her eccentric group of housemates as they navigate their daily lives.
2. Nailed It! Germany
Nailed It! Germany is a cooking competition show that aired on Netflix.
The show is a spin-off of the popular American series Nailed It! and features amateur bakers attempting to recreate elaborate desserts for a chance to win a cash prize.
Each episode of the show features three contestants who are given a baking challenge to recreate a complicated dessert or pastry.
The contestants are judged on their creativity, technical skills, and ability to replicate the dessert as closely as possible.
The winner of each episode receives a cash prize and a trophy.
The show is hosted by comedian and actress Ruth Moschner, with professional patissier and chocolatier Bernd Siefert serving as the judge.
The show is filmed in Germany and features German-speaking contestants and desserts.
3. Ugly Delicious
Ugly Delicious is a documentary series on Netflix that explores the cultural and social significance of food.
The show is hosted by chef David Chang, the founder of the Momofuku restaurant group, and features discussions with chefs, food writers, and cultural experts from around the world.
Each episode of Ugly Delicious focuses on a particular type of cuisine, dish, or ingredient, and examines its origins, evolution, and cultural significance.
The show also explores the ways in which food intersects with issues such as race, class, and immigration.
Ugly Delicious has been praised for its engaging and informative approach to food and culture, as well as its visually stunning cinematography.
The show has been renewed for a second season, which is set to premiere on Netflix in the near future.
4. Junior Baking Show
Junior Baking Show is a competitive baking reality TV show that airs on Netflix.
The show follows a group of young bakers aged 9-15 who compete against each other in a series of baking challenges to become the best junior baker.
The contestants are judged by a panel of professional pastry chefs and bakers, who critique their creations based on taste, texture, and presentation.
Throughout the competition, the contestants are given various baking challenges, such as making pies, cakes, and bread.
The challenges vary in difficulty and require the young bakers to show their creativity, technical skills, and ability to work under pressure.
At the end of each episode, one contestant is eliminated until the final episode, where the top bakers compete for the title of Junior Baking Champion.
The show not only highlights the young bakers’ talents but also encourages creativity, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
It is a family-friendly show that inspires young viewers to pursue their passion for baking and cooking.
5. Salt Fat Acid Heat
Salt Fat Acid Heat is a Netflix original documentary series based on Samin Nosrat’s best-selling cookbook of the same name.
The series follows Samin as she travels to different parts of the world to explore the four essential elements of good cooking; salt, fat, acid, and heat.
In each episode, Samin visits a different country to learn about how these elements are used in their cuisine.
She also shares recipes, cooking tips, and techniques that viewers can apply in their own kitchens.
The show has received critical acclaim for its beautiful cinematography, informative content, and engaging presentation.
It’s a great watch for anyone who loves cooking or wants to learn more about the science behind good food.
6. Cooked
Cooked is a Netflix original documentary series based on Michael Pollan’s book of the same name.
The series explores the human relationship with food, taking a deep dive into the cultural and historical significance of cooking and the impact it has on our health and well-being.
The four-part series explores the four elements of cooking: fire, water, air, and earth, and takes viewers on a journey around the world to explore different cooking traditions and techniques.
Through stunning visuals and expert interviews, Cooked is a thought-provoking exploration of the role that cooking plays in our lives.
7. Nadiya’s Time to Eat
Nadiya’s Time To Eat is a cooking show on Netflix hosted by Nadiya Hussain, who is a former winner of The Great British Bake Off.
The show focuses on quick and easy recipes that are perfect for busy families and people with busy lifestyles.
In each episode, Nadiya shares her favorite recipes and cooking tips for making delicious meals in a short amount of time.
She also shares her favorite kitchen hacks and time-saving techniques that anyone can use to make cooking more enjoyable and less stressful.
One of the unique features of the show is Nadiya’s use of pre-made ingredients and shortcuts to speed up the cooking process without sacrificing flavor.
She often uses pre-made sauces, spice mixes, and pre-cooked meats to help save time without sacrificing taste.
8. The Chef Show
The Chef Show is a Netflix series hosted by actor and filmmaker Jon Favreau and celebrity chef Roy Choi.
The show premiered in 2019 and features the two hosts cooking and experimenting with various recipes and techniques while also showcasing the food and culture of different cities and regions.
Each episode of The Chef Show features a different guest, ranging from famous actors and musicians to other renowned chefs.
Together, they prepare and share dishes, while also discussing their personal experiences and love for food.
The show is a blend of cooking, travel, and conversation, and has been praised for its authenticity and relatable content.
The Chef Show has been renewed for multiple seasons, and its popularity has led to spin-off series such as The Chef Show: BBQ and The Chef Show: Italy.
9. Somebody Feed Phil
Somebody Feed Phil is a popular Netflix original documentary series that follows Phil Rosenthal, the creator of the hit TV show Everybody Loves Raymond, as he travels around the world exploring different cultures and trying new foods.
Each episode of the show features Rosenthal as he visits a different city and meets with locals to learn about their culture and cuisine.
He tries everything from street food to high-end restaurants and shares his experiences and thoughts about the food and the people he meets along the way.
The show is known for its lighthearted and humorous approach to food and travel, and Rosenthal’s infectious enthusiasm for both.
It has received positive reviews from viewers and critics alike, who appreciate its positive message about exploring new cultures and experiencing the world through food.
10. The American Barbecue Showdown
The American Barbecue Showdown is a reality competition show that premiered on Netflix in September 2020.
The show follows eight contestants from different parts of the United States as they compete against each other in a series of challenges to be crowned the ultimate pitmaster.
Throughout the show, the contestants are judged by a panel of experts in barbecue, including Kevin Bludso and Melissa Cookston, on their ability to smoke and grill a variety of meats, as well as their creativity in creating side dishes and desserts.
The challenges range from traditional barbecue staples like brisket and ribs to more unique ingredients like alligator and octopus.
Along the way, the contestants must also navigate personal and interpersonal challenges as they live and work together in a shared house.
Ultimately, one contestant is named the winner of The American Barbecue Showdown and takes home a cash prize of $25,000.
The show has been praised for its celebration of regional barbecue traditions and its portrayal of the hard work and dedication that goes into becoming a skilled pitmaster.
11. The Mind of a Chef
The Mind of a Chef is a documentary series that originally aired on PBS and is also available on Netflix.
The show explores the world of cooking and food through the eyes of renowned chefs, showcasing their unique perspectives and creative processes.
Each episode features a different chef, who takes viewers on a journey through their culinary world, sharing their favorite recipes, techniques, and ingredients.
Along the way, viewers are treated to stunning visuals and fascinating insights into the chef’s personal and professional life.
The show has been praised for its innovative approach to food programming, offering a more intimate and personal look at the world of professional cooking.
It has also won multiple awards, including a James Beard Award for Best Television Program on Location.
12. Street Food
Street Food is a Netflix original documentary series that explores the world of street food and the people who make it.
The show features episodes in various cities around the globe, including Bangkok, Osaka, Delhi, Yogyakarta, Chiayi, and more.
Each episode focuses on the unique culinary traditions of the featured city, as well as the stories and personalities behind the food.
The show’s creators, David Gelb and Brian McGinn, are also the creators of the popular Netflix series Chef’s Table.
Street Food provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of street food, which is often overlooked in the culinary world but plays a significant role in the cultural and culinary traditions of many countries.
The show is not only entertaining, but also educational and informative, as it sheds light on the often-underappreciated art of street food.
13. The Big Family Cooking Showdown
The Big Family Cooking Showdown is a British cooking competition series that first aired on BBC Two in 2017 and was later acquired by Netflix.
The show features amateur family cooks from across the United Kingdom who compete in challenges to showcase their culinary skills and family recipes.
The format of the show involves teams of three family members who cook against each other in various challenges, including cooking for large crowds, creating dishes inspired by their family heritage, and preparing meals using local ingredients.
The contestants are judged by two professional chefs, and the winning family receives a prize of £10,000.
The show has been praised for its focus on family cooking and the diverse range of dishes and cultures represented.
However, it has also received some criticism for its production and pacing, with some viewers finding it slow-paced and lacking in excitement compared to other cooking competition shows.
14. Flavorful Origins
Flavorful Origins is a documentary-style food show that is currently available on Netflix.
The show explores the cultural and culinary histories of different Chinese regional cuisines, showcasing the unique ingredients, cooking techniques, and traditions that have shaped these cuisines over time.
Each episode focuses on a particular region and its signature dishes, such as Shunde’s Cantonese-style cooking, Chaoshan’s seafood dishes, and Yunnan’s minority cuisine.
The show also delves into the stories of the people behind the food, including local chefs, farmers, and food artisans who have mastered the art of their craft and continue to pass it down to future generations.
Through stunning cinematography, in-depth interviews, and close-up shots of mouth-watering dishes, Flavorful Origins offers an immersive and engaging exploration of China’s rich culinary heritage.
15. Taco Chronicles
Taco Chronicles (Las Crónicas del Taco) is a documentary series on Netflix that explores the history, culture, and significance of tacos in Mexico and beyond.
The show features interviews with taco chefs, food critics, and other experts, as well as footage of different types of tacos being prepared and consumed.
Each episode of the series focuses on a different type of taco, such as al pastor, carnitas, barbacoa, and more.
The show delves into the origins of each taco, how it is made, and the cultural significance it holds in different regions of Mexico.
In addition to exploring traditional taco styles, the show also features episodes on contemporary taco innovations and trends, such as vegan and fusion tacos.
Taco Chronicles offers a fascinating look into the world of tacos, highlighting the important role they play in Mexican cuisine and culture.
It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves tacos or is interested in learning more about Mexican food and culture.
Conclusion
Netflix offers a wide range of food and cooking shows that are sure to satisfy the cravings of any foodie.
From intense culinary competitions to heartwarming stories of local food traditions, these shows offer something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, you’re sure to find inspiration and entertainment in the best food and cooking shows on Netflix.
So sit back, grab a snack, and get ready to indulge in a feast for your eyes and taste buds!