11/21/2014

Food Failures: The Science Of Side Dishes

16:58 minutes

When it comes to Thanksgiving, you might want to think twice before tossing your potatoes into the food processor or smothering your cranberries with sugar. Julie Yu, staff scientist at San Francisco’s Exploratorium, explains the science at work behind the holiday’s classic sides: gravy, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. What role does pectin play in congealing your cranberries? How do you avoid lumpy gravy? In this episode of our “Food Failures” series, Yu—who says Thanksgiving is her favorite holiday—is here to help you avoid Turkey Day trip-ups.

Segment Guests

Julie Yu

Julie Yu is staff scientist and director of the Teacher Institute at The Exploratorium in San Francisco, California.

Meet the Producer

About Becky Fogel

Becky Fogel is a newscast host and producer at Texas Standard, a daily news show broadcast by KUT in Austin, Texas. She was formerly Science Friday’s production assistant.

Explore More

Cranberries, With A Side Of Science

Some tasty facts about the popular Thanksgiving treat.

Read More