Food blogger, TV host, and the voice behind NoGarlicNoOnions, Anthony Rahayel, is taking his passion for food to new heights with the launch of his unscripted podcast, “U Meat Stories”. This series brings together food lovers, experts, and curious listeners to explore the culture, craft, and stories behind meat.
Episode one, released on November 15 2024, kicks things off with a deep dive into the smoky world of barbecue. Anthony is joined by his close friend and grill master, Frederic Casagrande, the man behind Smoking Beards. Frederic’s journey from the corporate world to becoming a barbecue aficionado is inspiring, heartfelt, and packed with flavor—literally!
The episode opens with Anthony’s signature charm as he welcomes listeners with two glasses of wine and a lot of curiosity. Together with Fred, they dig into the nuances of grilling meat, starting with the art of marbling. Fred explains how those tiny white flecks of fat transform during grilling, creating juicy, flavorful bites. He breaks down everything from the USDA grading system to Australia’s marbling index (MB), helping listeners choose the perfect cut for their next barbecue.
Fred didn’t come empty-handed infact he sourced premium cuts from Meat House Gourmet, showcasing the beauty of marbled and dry-aged meats. As they chat, he shares the secrets of selecting, preparing, and grilling meat to perfection, diving into the science of dry-aging and why it’s worth the wait.
But this podcast isn’t just about technical know-how. It’s a lively, unscripted conversation full of stories, laughs, and personal perspectives. Anthony shares his emotional connection to food, its ability to tell stories, and how it brings people together. Fred, on the other hand, emphasizes technique and the joy of discovering new ways to elevate flavors. Together, they create a dynamic and relatable dialogue that feels like a conversation between friends.
The episode also touches on practical tips, like why it’s better to trust your butcher than a supermarket, how resting meat keeps it flavorful, and the magic of properly marinated burgers. They even discuss Fred’s journey into pop-ups and catering, where he showcases his grilling skills and sells his universal spice blends—perfect for enhancing everything from steak to popcorn.
“Meat Smoky Stories”* isn’t just a podcast—it’s an invitation to explore the art of cooking, the joy of sharing meals, and the passion behind every great dish. With Anthony’s storytelling and Fred’s expertise, the series offers something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just someone who loves good food.
Don’t miss Episode One, available now on YouTube. Join Anthony and Frederic for stories, insights, and plenty of laughs as they celebrate meat, flavor, and the people who make it all possible.
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*Fred says Smoking Hot Stories, Anthony says Meat or Smoky Stories, so this is to be discussed but I wanted to give it a “catchy referral”.
