It's Alive with Brad

It's Alive with Brad from Bon Appétit is an engaging and thoroughly entertaining web series that uniquely intersects the worlds of food, science, travel, and comedy. Presented by the dynamic personality that is Brad Leone, the series is produced by the popular food and culture magazine, Bon Appétit, and is a part of their Bon Appétit's Test Kitchen series. The show is available on multiple online platforms, including YouTube, for easy access to home chefs, food enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning how their food is formed, fermented, and even international culinary traditions.

Brad, the host, is Bon Appétit's Test Kitchen Manager, and his refreshing passion for fermentation and all things culinary becomes instantly contagious. His unique approach to cooking, paired with his charisma and humor, creates a comfortable ambience that welcomes all viewers, regardless of their cooking experience. His "let's give it a whirl" mindset encourages viewers to experiment and explore different aspects of food, pushing boundaries of conventional cooking.

The title, It's Alive, hints at the main theme of the show: fermentation. Fermentation is a natural process where microorganisms like yeast and bacteria convert carbs — such as starch and sugar — into alcohol or acids. The alcohol or acids act as a natural preservative and give fermented foods a distinctive zest and tartness. In the show, Brad pushes the boundaries of what can be fermented, pickled, or brewed, exploring everything from kimchi and sauerkraut to kombucha and beer.

However, It's Alive covers more than just fermentation. The series uses this premise as a launching pad to delve into various cuisines, culinary techniques, and ingredients from all across the world that Brad encounters on his numerous adventures. The show enhances viewers' palates, teaching them not only about American cuisine but also indulging them with the tastes of global culture.

Often, Brad ventures beyond the confines of the kitchen, transcending into the world of food sourcing, showing viewers the life cycle of different ingredients. From foraging in the wilderness to the heart of massive factories, he paints a bigger, complete picture of food production. This essentially connects viewers more closely to their food, fostering a deeper sense of appreciation and understanding.

Apart from fermentation and food production, the show also covers a wide array of cooking techniques and recipes, presented in a more approachable, easy-to-follow format. Brad's laid-back, somewhat chaotic style often sees him deviating from the script, taking detours, and making goofy mistakes on camera, which further adds an element of authenticity and spontaneity to the show. Coupled with his lovable persona and the healthy sprinkling of humor, the series ensures there’s never a dull moment.

Moreover, his interactions with his colleagues from Bon Appétit's Test Kitchen, along with his unconventional relationship with the off-camera production crew, add a layer of charm and depth to the show. The background side comments, banter, and camaraderie between Brad, the crew, and his fellow chefs are a delight, making the viewers feel part of this unique gastronomic family.

Over the course of the series, the show has grown from a simple culinary experiment into a lesson in the harmonious coexistence of humans with nature, food science, and artistic gastronomy. It's a testament to Brad's love for life and food that shines through with every dish he makes and every place he visits.

What sets It's Alive apart is its ability to be fun and educational at the same time, teaching viewers about food and cooking without them even realizing it. Viewers will learn cooking techniques, the origins of different foods, how to ferment various ingredients, and an assortment of unique recipes while being entertained by Brad's vibrant personality and spontaneous humor. It's not merely a cooking show—it’s an adventure, a science lesson, and an ode to the world’s abundant cuisines, all rolled into one.

Overall, It's Alive with Brad from Bon Appétit is an unpredictable rollercoaster ride through the world of food, focusing on how alive food really is, bursting with culture, history, and unsung processes. It's a must-watch for anyone with a passion for food and a spirit for adventure, promising equal parts laughter, knowledge, and culinary inspiration.