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The old expression “high on the hog” has been used for years to indicate that something is luxurious or that someone is affluent and in its most literal sense the expression refers to the best and costliest parts of a hog which is considered to be parts above the belly. The Netflix series “High on the Hog,” which is hosted by Chef and writer Stephen Satterfield, utilized the phrase and traced how African American cuisine transformed America.
Satterfield is a food writer, publisher and multimedia producer that seeks to connect people and ideas through food. The series first debuted in May 2021 and is based on Jessica B. Harris‘ award-winning book under the same title. In addition to having contributions from Satterfield and Harris, the docu-series is also the product of filmmakers Karis Jagger and Fabienne Toback (who served as executive producers) as well as Roger Ross Williams (who served as the director).
The four-part series deepens viewers’ understanding of Africa’s influence on the many American dishes enjoyed to this day. The first episode looks at the roots of African American foods and begins in the country of Benin while the second episode explores one of the original colonies’ top cash crops, rice. Episode two focuses on the Carolinas and the price paid for rice in exchange for the lives of the enslaved population. The third episode begins to examine early enslaved chefs that crafted cuisines and laid the foundation for foods that would eventually become a staple part of the culture. Season one concludes with, a final comparison of foods and takes viewers to Texas to explore Black Cowboy culture and cuisines.
While many of the dishes will leave you wanting a sample for yourself, “High on the Hog” is bigger than the food being consumed. In the final episode, Satterfield reminds viewers that “our story is America’s” and African-American’s contributions to the culture are still present. Season two of High on the Hog has been confirmed and is being advertised by the streaming giant, however, there has not been an official premiere date set at this time. Fans of the series can also check out Satterfield’s magazine, Whetstone, for more food and culture commentary.
