Immigrants from Lebanon, Syria and Israel have left a tasty influence on Mexican cuisine over the years. Pati will look at how and why they came to such a far-flung — but fascinating — country and what kind of legacy they've contributed.

Vanilla only comes in a bottle, right? Oh, it's a bean! Where on earth do I find vanilla beans, and how do I cook with them? Do I crack them open or something? Wait, vanilla comes from Veracruz, Mexico — not Madagascar? This episode will explain all of that, plus share a few amazing vanilla-infused recipes.

Mexicans have been wrapping and cooking their food in leaves for a long time, and this episode will look at the reasons why. Pati will also offer some shortcuts and tips for cooking wrapped foods in your own kitchen.