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History's Greatest Dishes: Season 1

History's Greatest Dishes: Season 1

Ever wondered who we have to thank for pineapple on pizza? Or whether the Victoria Sponge was really named after the long-reigning monarch?

Dr Annie Gray
, Emily Briffett

Published: April 13, 2026 at 4:12 PM

5 items

History's Greatest Dishes serves up a feast of facts about some of the past's most remarkable delicacies. Expect culinary legends, half-baked myths and deliciously odd tales – all in the company of Emily Briffett and food historian Annie Gray. It's sure to leave you with food for thought.

Showing 1 to 5 of 5 results

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Episode 1Blancmange. This is a premium piece of content available to subscribed users.

Annie Gray reveals how a medieval elite treat transformed into the stuff of school cafeteria nightmares
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Episode 2Pizza. This is a premium piece of content available to subscribed users.

Annie Gray charts the surprisingly complex origins of the global fast-food favourite
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Episode 3Victoria Sponge. This is a premium piece of content available to subscribed users.

Annie Gray delves into the darker side to a delicacy that's become a national icon
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Episode 4Balti. This is a premium piece of content available to subscribed users.

Annie Gray goes on a culinary quest to uncover the roots of one of Britain's favourite curries
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Episode 5Gooseberry Fool. This is a premium piece of content available to subscribed users.

Annie Gray explores the origins of the simple, classic dessert – from medieval kitchen gardens to a fruity Victorian craze

See more history's greatest dishes

Authors

Dr Annie GrayFood historian

Dr Annie Gray is the resident food historian on BBC Radio 4’s The Kitchen Cabinet.

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Emily BriffettSenior content producer (podcasts)

Emily Briffett is senior content producer (podcasts) at HistoryExtra