What This TV Mini-Series Is All About
This TV mini-series is a captivating journey where Chef Melissa King ventures deep into nature, seeking creative inspiration and fresh ingredients. Alongside National Geographic explorers and photographers, Melissa dives into the wild to discover unique flavors and stories. Co-directed and executive produced with the talented team at Radley Studios, the series is a collaboration with National Geographic Creative Works. Together, they step into the great outdoors to forge deeper connections with nature and craft original dishes that truly capture the wonder of the natural world. The full episodes are available on Hulu and the National Geographic YouTube channel, with bonus episodes also created to enrich the experience.
Main Benefits and Key Highlights
This series offers a fresh perspective on culinary creativity, blending adventure, science, and storytelling. Here are some key figures and facts that make it stand out:
- Format: TV Mini-Series consisting of five engaging episodes
- Broadcasted on National Geographic and Hulu
- Features Chef Melissa King collaborating with renowned National Geographic explorers and photographers
- Explores diverse ecosystems, from glaciers to tide pools, old-growth forests to active volcanoes
- Includes bonus episodes for deeper dives into the content
Exploring the Glaciers of Snoqualmie National Forest
One of the standout episodes takes viewers on a breathtaking journey through Washington’s Snoqualmie National Forest. Here, National Geographic photographer, explorer, and traditional kayak builder Kiliii Yuyan teams up with Melissa. Together, they drive, hike, and paddle around glaciers, elevating Melissa’s culinary craft with inspiration drawn straight from the icy wilderness. It’s a blend of adventure and artistry, where nature’s raw beauty meets innovative cooking.
Tidepooling Along the Pacific Coast
Another episode invites viewers to explore the intricate details of coastal tide pools. Melissa joins National Geographic photographer and explorer Anand Varma to uncover the tiny wonders hidden along the Pacific Coast. This close-up look at nature’s incredible details sparks new meaning and inspiration for Melissa’s dishes, showing how even the smallest elements of the environment can influence creativity in the kitchen.
Foraging for Mushrooms in Olympic National Park
In the lush, old-growth forests of Olympic National Park, fungal ecologist and National Geographic Explorer Korena Mafune guides Melissa on a mushroom foraging expedition. Mushrooms happen to be one of Melissa’s favorite ingredients, and this episode delves into the fascinating world of fungi. It’s a perfect mix of science, nature, and culinary passion, highlighting the importance of sustainable foraging and the rich flavors found in the wild.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – promoting sustainable sourcing of ingredients
- SDG 13: Climate Action – raising awareness about natural ecosystems and their preservation
- SDG 15: Life on Land – showcasing the beauty and importance of forests, glaciers, and natural habitats
- SDG 14: Life Below Water – exploring coastal tide pools and marine biodiversity
Exploring the Active Volcano of Mauna Loa
The adventure continues in Hawaii, where National Geographic Explorer Andrés Ruzo joins Melissa to summit Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano. This episode is a fiery exploration of volcanic landscapes and local ingredients sourced from the island’s unique environment. It’s a thrilling blend of geology, culture, and cuisine, revealing how the earth’s forces shape the flavors on Melissa’s plate.
