One needs to look no further than Devil's Food cake to see that guilty pleasures and food go hand in hand. It isn't surprising, then, that the greatest guilty pleasure of cable television is the Food Network. Loved for its sinful cuisine and enticing hosts, the network has fans of all ages. They just won't admit it.
Launched in 1993, Food Network's original programming was limited to cooking demonstrations. Today's Food Network has matured into a legitimate entertainment entity, offering an array of food-related programming.
The how-to shows remain, led by the feisty Emeril Lagasse. Most college students can only dream of recreating Lagasse's gourmet cuisine, but the raucous in-studio audience never ceases to entertain. Where else can a clove of garlic cause pandemonium?
For the epicurean intellectual, shows like Unwrapped and Secret Life Of... look at the histories of various foods. Those convinced that God devoted an entire day of creation to the chocolate chip cookie will be fascinated by the ancient origins of cookies.
Food Network has also managed to meld competition and cookery. The Iron Chef, a showdown of top chefs, has established a cult following. The chaotic show is more comical than suspenseful, although the combination of knives, fire and hasty preparation has the potential for more gore than Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
While these shows offer mouth-watering fare, it seems the hosts, not indulgent desserts, are the real guilty pleasure. A 30 Minute Meal with spunky Rachael Ray leaves some begging for more. Others dream that Food 911 host Tyler Florence would come to their rescue.
Wisconsinites take pride in the refined beauty of Eau Claire native Sandra Lee (though her attempt at a gourmet brat was atrocious). For me, it's Giada De Laurentiis, host of Everyday Italian. Her clear articulation of words like 'mozzarella' and 'prosciutto' leave me breathless.
With 68 million viewers, why is it that so many people watch Food Network, yet few will admit it? Yes, revealing that your TV remains tuned in 24/7 may expose the sad depths of your food obsession (my secret is out). Admitting your desire to have breakfast in bed with the robust Emeril may outright frighten some. But whether it's the food or the hosts which you drool over, it's time to embrace the wonder that is Channel 38.
