Joaquin Baca is the unsung hero behind the Momofuku empire. After answering a Monster.com ad, he met David Chang and went on to become co-owner of Momofuku, opening Noodle Bar, Ssam Bar and Ko with Chang. Years later, he has gone on to open Brooklyn Star, a family-style Old American restaurant in North Williamsburg that offers comfort food in the best way possible. On this week's episode of Chef's Story, chef Baca sits down with host Dorothy Cann Hamilton and shares his culinary journey - from growing up in different countries across the world to opening his own restaurant with his own two hands and a barebones staff. This program was sponsored by Hearst Ranch

"All we wanted [at Momofuku] was for somebody to pat us on the back and say 'you're not terrible.' " [18:05]

"I learned in the opening [of Brooklyn Star] that I don't ever want to do anything by myself again." [25:40]

"Brooklyn Star was my chance to do what's near and dear to me in a less filtered fashion." [31:50]

--chef Joaquin Baca on Chef's Story

Michael Krondl is talking Easter sweets on this week's episode of A Taste of the Past! Michael joins Linda Pelaccio in the studio to shed some light on some confusing Easter mythology. Why do we give chocolate bunnies at Easter time? Why are rabbits and eggs Easter symbols? Also, listen in to learn the history behind eating sweet bread during the Easter holiday. Hear about other ancient spring celebrations, and find out what foods were eaten to improve fertility. How do desserts differ across Europe, and how do their traditions help distinguish desserts from everyday breads? Celebrate Easter on today's episode of A Taste of the Past! This program has been sponsored by Hearst Ranch.

"Bread has a very complicated meaning (in fertility holidays). In Christianity, bread represents the body of Christ. The idea of having these breads for Easter ties in with Christianity, but it probably came before Christianity in Europe." [4:00]

"Sweet things used to be rare and expensive. They used to be associated with the priest class." [27:20]

-- Michael Krondl on A Taste of the Past

What Would You Plant as a Farmer in 1784? On the season finale of We Dig Plants, Celebrate 229 Years of Service to America's Farmers & Gardeners with Barbara Melera of America's Oldest Seed House, Landreth's. The D. Landreth Seed Company has been providing its customers with one of the most extensive selections of fine lawn and garden seeds in the world. Their founders introduced into the United States some of the most beloved flowers and vegetables known today including the Zinnia, the white potato, various tomatoes, and their own Bloomsdale Spinach. Tune in and learn all about the history of the seed house, and get some great historical perspective on how certain plants were brought to life in the US! This program was sponsored by Hearst Ranch.

"We're here because America has kept us here for 229 years. We're going to do everything we can to help American citizens. Our catalog cost 4 times as much as it would if it was printed in China. It will continue to be printed in America as long as I have anything to say about it." [16:54]

--Barbara Melera of America's Oldest Seed House, Landreth's on We Dig Plants