My infatuation with Food Network is no surprise and certainly no secret. And this, coupled with my Netflix account and needing something to occupy my perpetually hungry mind while I workout, I'm pretty much an expert on which cooking shows are the best. So, for that reason, I put together this short, simple list to help guide you in picking out a Food Network show when you (for whatever reason) wanna watch someone cook, but don't know where to start.
1. Kids Baking Championship
Perhaps my very favorite cooking show. With adults, it's all about the challenge and about being the best. With kids, it's about having fun and helping each other out if necessary. I've never seen an episode where, when one kid cries, the others don't rally around to help them out. How cute is that!? The only downside is that these eleven and twelve year olds can cook way better than you ever will, so prepare to be reminded of your own shortcomings.
2. Guy's Grocery Games
Also referred to as Triple G, this game is all about fast-paced, fun-filled challenges. Not only do you have to be able to cook well, you gotta be able to think on your feet and run faster than your other competitors. Even so, Guy Fieri, the host of the show, keeps things light and happy-go-lucky even when he's throwing out challenges like "your seafood meal must contain marshmallows." It's a great watch that's sure to have you laughing and completely surprised at the inventive things these chefs come up with under a very short time constraint.
3. Cupcake Wars
What's more fun than watching the creation of tons of totally beautiful and delicious looking cupcakes? All centered around a theme, along with ingredients that must be used to some extent or another. Well, practically nothing, if you ask me. This show is totally the best show as far as baked goods go, with it's cousin Cake Wars coming in at a close second. It's so much fun to watch all the unique creativity that goes down in Cupcake Wars kitchen, unfortunately, you'll always be left craving a cupcake, or two.
4. Iron Chef America
Opposite to the previous shows, there's very little light-hearted and fun to this show. At times, you're left wondering whether you're watching a cooking show or a strange rendition of American Ninja Warrior. It's smoky and darkly lit and the kitchen itself is named "Kitchen Stadium America." This is probably the most challenging of all the shows, wherein one "Iron Chef" competes against a challenging chef from the outside world, featuring one ingredient that must be featured in all five courses that the chefs will prepare. Be careful not to get too into it, because it will definitely get your adrenaline going if you do.
5. Chopped
Last but not least, Chopped is something of a mash up of the challenging aspect of Iron Chef America, and the fun aspect of all the other shows. There's definitely a challenge to be had, with "baskets" containing required ingredients per each round and meal, but it's definitely not set in some darkly lit kitchen. Best of all, Chopped has different versions where they only have children, grandparents, mothers, ect. compete between one another. And it's totally one of the best things ever.
