Plot Synopsis

HIGH ON THE HOG: HOW AFRICAN AMERICAN CUISINE TRANSFORMED AMERICA is a one-hour documentary that follows food writer Stephen Satterfield, as he embarks on a culinary journey alongside chefs, historians, and activists that celebrates the courage, artistry, and resourcefulness of the African American people. Netflix released all four one-hour episodes of the first season on Wednesday, May 26, 2021:

"Our Roots": The hunt for African American food's roots goes to Benin, where okra and yam rule the market and pre-enslavement fish and corn plates reign at a table.

"The Rice Kingdom": In the Carolinas, Stephen looks at the human cost of rice and goes whole hog with Gullah chef BJ Dennis and those preserving Black culinary traditions.

"Our Founding Chefs": From mac and cheese to Virginia ham: Jefferson's and Washington's renowned enslaved chefs James Hemings and Hercules left the nation hungry for more.

"Freedom": Barbecued brisket meets Senegalese lamb and a Juneteenth feast as Stephen heads to Texas to ride with Black cowboys and take in Jerrelle Guy's cakes.
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Season 2 of HIGH ON THE HOG: HOW AFRICAN AMERICAN CUISINE TRANSFORMED AMERICA premiered on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 on Netflix, which released all four episodes of the new season. Host Stephen Satterfield travels across the United States to uncover how African-American cuisine has fueled social justice movements, transformed communities and awakened cultural creativity in America in powerful and lasting ways. The four episodes are:

"Food for the Journey": From black-eyed peas to gumbo, African ingredients define New Orleans' signature dishes. Up north, the Great Migration inspires Chicago's culinary style.

"The Black Mecca": In Harlem, chef Charles Gabriel shares the secret to his pan-fried chicken and other trailblazers tell stories of their ancestors' connections to food.

"The Defiance": Stephen meets former student activists in Atlanta and honors the legacy of the chefs and bakers who fueled and funded the Civil Rights Movement.

"Feeding the Culture": A Black Panther reflects on the pivotal free breakfast program. Luminaries gather for a special dinner and layered conversation about race and food.