S3 E9 The Secretary of Human Rights Presents: A Tenderloin Banquet with Purple Mashed Potatoes

In the series finale episode of Elaine’s Cooking for the Soul, Elaine faces her greatest challenge yet: a rooftop confrontation with General Krause, while balancing the weight of betrayal, survival, and hope.  Join Elaine as she: Confronts General Krause in a final showdown on the rooftop of The State HQ. Faces betrayal from the Courier (aka Charly) and grapples with the fragility of forgiveness. Leads her community to triumph over The State with unexpected allies by her side. Elaine’s Resilience Recipes Krause's Rooftop Victory BreadIngredients: 1 cup of hope 2 cups of courage A sprinkle of forgiveness 3 parachutes of bread (optional) Instructions: Combine hope and courage in a large bowl. Mix in forgiveness until dough forms. Bake over the fires of rebellion until golden brown. Serve with a side of victory. DIY Keepsake: Broken Tooth Necklace Ingredients: One symbolic tooth (preferably Krause’s) Chain or string Epoxy resin Instructions: Clean and preserve the tooth. Securely attach it to the chain using resin. Wear it as a reminder of your hard-won battles. Tips and Variations: For Rebuilding: Remember, it's about community, not a single hero. For Forgiveness: Healing takes time, but the effort is worth it. Credits: Written and Directed by: Allison Slice Elaine Martínez voiced by: Rosa Delgado General Krause voiced by: Greg Rousson Courier voiced by: Raechel Wong Fran voiced by: Socks Whitmore Sidney voiced by: Julie Ouellette Ad Ministers voiced by: Greg Rousson Additional appearances: Thomas Anthony Jones, Brian Baltazar, Nicky Urban, Judith Kargbo, and Francis Krainock Editing and Sound Design by: Allison Slice Music by: Carly ComandoCover Art by: Stig Greve

Welcome back, survivors! In our series finale, Elaine is forced into an unexpected showdown with General Krause while grappling with revelations of betrayal from her closest ally, Courier. The stakes are higher than ever as Elaine confronts the true scope of The State’s manipulation and the fragility of her own hope. Will her message reach beyond the radio tower, or will she be silenced for good? Join Elaine as she: Performs a high-stakes dental procedure on General Krause with lives hanging in the balance. Discovers a chilling betrayal from her trusted Courier. Faces the reality that her podcast might never have reached an audience beyond The State. Makes a daring decision to continue her mission to liberate the prisoners and send out a message of resistance. General Krause's Hot Tooth Relief Tonic Ingredients: 1 cold compress 2-4 tablets of ibuprofen A touch of righteous defiance Instructions: Apply cold compress to the affected area for immediate relief. Swallow ibuprofen with water or the beverage of your choice. Reflect on your life choices while simmering in self-awareness. Strawberry Memories Necklace (DIY) Ingredients: 12-20 strawberry tops, pressed and dried Thin chain or string Clear adhesive or resin Instructions: Press strawberry tops in a heavy book for at least 24 hours. Attach pressed tops to a chain using adhesive or resin. Wear as a keepsake of bittersweet memories. For Rebellion: Harness hope even when faced with betrayal—it’s the ultimate survival tool. For Self-Reflection: Sometimes, speaking into the void is enough to keep going. Written and Directed by: Allison Slice Elaine Martínez voiced by: Rosa Delgado General Krause voiced by: Greg Rousson Courier voiced by: Raechel Wong Fran voiced by: Socks Whitmore Sam voiced by: Thomas Anthony Jones Ad Minister V.O. voiced by: Greg Rousson Editing and Sound Design by: Allison Slice Music by: Carly Comando Cover Art by: Stig Greve

Welcome back, survivors! In this episode, Elaine finds herself in the bowels of State HQ's commercial kitchen, reluctantly teaming up with Ryan, the Secretary of Free Stuff and Promo Codes. Together, they attempt to prepare a "Liquid Bonanza"—a State-mandated meal that includes a protein slurry and a banana smoothie. Ryan’s relentless enthusiasm and promotion of 1-800-HAM collide may raise an eyebrow or two but you know what they say: This is the State’s latest food policy, so get used to it! Join Elaine as she: Tries to survive the company of Ryan while navigating her own discomfort with the State’s mandates. Whips up a questionable "protein slurry," complete with ground meats, bone broth, and Ryan’s unfiltered commentary. Attempts to add some sweetness to the chaos with a rare treat: a banana smoothie. Delivers a heartfelt monologue on resilience, hope, and embracing the unknown, as she heads toward an uncertain fate. Elaine’s Liquid Bonanza Recipes: Protein Slurry Ingredients: 2 gallons of water Assorted animal bone broth & bits Salt to taste Instructions: Prepare the Broth In a large pot, bring the water to a simmer and add the assorted bones. Let them stew for at least 30 minutes. Strain the Broth Remove the bones, ensuring any smaller ones, like “fingers” (chicken wings, of course!), are carefully sieved out. Blend like the dickens Season to Taste If possible, season with salt and any spices on hand. Banana Smoothie Ingredients: 2 bananas 1/4 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup oat milk 1/2 cup coconut milk 1 tablespoon rolled oats Dash of cinnamon Instructions: Prep Ingredients Peel bananas and add to the blender. Add brown sugar, oat milk, coconut milk, and rolled oats. Blend Blend until smooth and creamy. Serve and Enjoy For an added treat, sprinkle cinnamon on top before serving. Enjoy it if you’re lucky enough to have a taste tester available! Tips and Variations: Foraging Tips: Substitute bananas with any other fruit you may come across. Survival Tactics: Remember, not every meal has to be gourmet—sometimes survival means accepting what’s available. Credits: Written and directed by Allison Slice Elaine Martínez voiced by Rosa Delgado Secretary of Free Stuff and Promo Codes voiced by Steven Etienne Courier voiced by Raechel Wong Sam Gately voiced by Thomas Anthony Jones Announcer voiced by Greg Goh Editing and sound design by Allison Slice Music by Carly Comando Cover Art by Stig Greve

We're left a little gutted after this episode. Hungrier than ever. Elaine Martínez, DDS, finds herself pulled into a deep, late-night conversation with Fran, now an ambitious State security official who carries secrets and struggles that haunt them. Their tense yet heartfelt exchange reveals glimmers of humanity and resistance against the constraints of The State. Join Elaine as she: Comforts Fran, a high-ranking State official, who faces a profound inner conflict between love and duty. Discovers unexpected leverage and insight from Fran’s position in State Tech and Surveillance. Reminds Fran of the importance of love and shared moments, even in a world seemingly stripped of meaning. Hints at a new glimmer of hope, as Fran reveals a loophole that could bring about a temporary prison break. Written & Directed by Allison SliceElaine Martínez voiced by Rosa DelgadoFran voiced by Socks Whitmore Editing and sound design by Allison SliceMusic by Carly ComandoCover Art by Stig Greve Credits:

As we continue through this thrilling final season, Elaine Martínez, DDS, finds herself still in the grip of The State, but hope glimmers on the horizon. This week, in the luxurious yet ominous State HQ kitchen, Elaine prepares a delicacy that’s equal parts classic and unsettling: "steak" tartare. Alongside her, we meet Joe the Plumber, your everyman State-appointed guest who brings oodles of charm, despite his rather...controlled dialogue. Join Elaine as she: Delves into the peculiar history of steak tartare, with references to Turco-Mongol warriors, Freud, and more. Struggles with State-imposed cooking restrictions while hilariously adapting to new ingredients like lab-grown peas and crow-laid eggs. Contemplates her role and the sacrifice she's made while trying to maintain her dignity in a world of forced State propaganda. Ingredients: Beef (preferably synthetic, lab-grown, bacteria-free, as per The State's standards) 2 tsp sherry vinegar ½ tsp dry mustard 2 large egg yolks ½ cup light olive oil 6 tbsp finely diced shallots 2 tbsp small brined capers (unrinsed) 1 tsp kosher salt ¼ cup celery leaves, finely chopped (divided) 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (divided) 1 tsp freshly grated lemon zest Special crow egg for topping Lab-grown peas (pureed with mint and lemon juice) Instructions: Prepare the dressing: In a small blue bowl, whisk together sherry vinegar, dry mustard, and egg yolks. Slowly stream in olive oil while whisking to emulsify. Add flavor: Stir in shallots, capers, salt, 2/3 of the celery leaves, parsley, and lemon zest. Meat preparation: Fold the dressing into the ground beef, mixing it by hand to ensure the flavors meld together. Shape the tartare: Use a pastry ring to mold the beef into a perfect circle on the plate. Remove the ring for that artful presentation. Finish with an egg: Crack a crow-laid egg on top of the tartare for a bold final touch. Lab-grown peas: Blend the peas with a splash of lemon juice, mint, and olive oil for a creamy, zesty side. Lab-grown peas: Don't worry about frozen—these are freshly grown in the lab and glowing with vibrant green. Crow eggs: For an extra touch of State-sanctioned oddity, top your dish with a crow egg laid on command. Survival strategy: Elaine advises that while lab-grown ingredients may seem unsettling, adaptability is key to thriving under The State. Credits: Written by Rosa DelgadoDirected by Allison SliceElaine Martínez voiced by Rosa DelgadoCourier voiced by Raechel WongJoe the Plumber voiced by Rama Vallury State Official voiced by Francis Krainock Editing and sound design by Allison Slice Music by Carly Comando Cover Art by Stig Greve A very special thanks to our patrons. Support us on Patreon at ⁠Patreon.com/elainescooking to keep this post-apocalyptic kitchen running! Steak Tartare and Lab-Grown Peas RecipeTips and Variations:

Elaine and Sam reunite for a (slightly out of season) holiday episode, though still under the watchful control of The State. Together, they prepare champurrado, a traditional Mexican holiday drink, in a maximally secured room, all while sharing lighthearted banter and bittersweet memories. With The State’s approval looming over every moment, the pair create a warm, nostalgic treat in a bleak world. Despite the oppressive circumstances, the holiday spirit flickers through Elaine and Sam’s friendship, as they reminisce about simpler times and embrace a rare moment of joy. Key Moments: Elaine and Sam reunite under The State’s strict control, kicking off the episode with their usual humor and resilient spirit. Sam wins “Prisoner of the Month” by mistake, giving an unintentionally hilarious insight into The State’s operations. Together, they joke about rejected holiday recipes (such as Abba Zabba casserole) before settling on a delicious traditional dish: champurrado. The recipe-making process involves banter about piloncillo, Mexican chocolate, and their past at LA Dental Care. As they sip their champurrado, Elaine and Sam share a heartfelt moment, expressing gratitude for each other in the midst of their grim reality. Champurrado Recipe: Ingredients: 4 cups milk (or milk alternative) 2 oz piloncillo (or brown sugar) 1 Mexican chocolate tablet (or substitute with dark chocolate) 1 cinnamon stick 1/2 cup masa harina (corn flour) 1 cup warm water 1 tsp vanilla extract Pinch of salt Instructions: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, piloncillo, Mexican chocolate, and the cinnamon stick. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats up. While waiting for the chocolate mixture, in a separate bowl, whisk together the masa harina and warm water until smooth. The consistency should resemble thin cake batter. Once the chocolate mixture begins to simmer, slowly whisk in the masa harina mixture. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and reaches your desired consistency. Remove from heat and pour into mugs. Serve warm and enjoy! Tips and Variations: Holiday Vibes: The cinnamon and chocolate combination is perfect for the holiday season. For an extra festive touch, garnish with a cinnamon stick or sprinkle a bit of chili powder for heat. Masa Magic: The masa harina gives champurrado its signature thick texture, transforming this drink into a rich, comforting holiday treat. Credits: Written by: Rosa Delgado & Allison SliceElaine Martínez voiced by: Rosa DelgadoSam Gately voiced by: Thomas Anthony Jones

Elaine finds herself once again in the clutches of The State, only this time, she’s given a platform—albeit a heavily controlled one. In this bizarre new twist, Elaine is forced to host a state-sponsored cooking show featuring the Secretary of Human Rights himself. Together, they prepare a grand feast, including lab-grown tenderloin and luxurious purple mashed potatoes, while grappling with the ever-watchful eyes of The State. As always, Elaine manages to make even the bleakest situations slightly absurd, using food as a way to subtly rebel and stay connected to her humanity. Meanwhile, her old friend Sam makes a brief, but hopeful, appearance, reminding her that there is still light in the dark. Key Moments: Elaine begins the episode in a state-of-the-art kitchen with the unnerving presence of the Secretary of Human Rights. Despite her imprisonment, she uses humor to cope with the new “public” format. Sam struggles to bring in a sack of potatoes, creating a lighthearted moment in the midst of the tension, only to be abruptly dragged away by The State’s robotic enforcers. Elaine and the Secretary discuss everything from potatoes to power dynamics, with Elaine attempting to maintain her defiance while the Secretary remains unfazed by her charm. The pair prepare purple mashed potatoes, but not without the Secretary banning several key ingredients and replacing friendly conversation with rigid state propaganda. In the outro, Elaine reflects deeply on her confinement and what it means to grow complacent in captivity, stirring thoughts of resistance among her listeners. Purple Mashed Potatoes Recipe: Ingredients: 3 pounds purple potatoes 6 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 cup milk or unsweetened milk alternative Salt and pepper to taste Roasted garlic (from 1 head) Optional garnish: chopped parsley Instructions: Peel and halve the potatoes, ensuring all pieces are of similar size. Boil in salted water for about 8-15 minutes until tender. Roast garlic by cutting off the top of a head of garlic, drizzling with oil, wrapping in foil, and roasting in the oven at 400°F until soft (about 30 minutes). Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the potatoes, then add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes to your desired consistency, adjusting seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley if available. Tips and Variations: State-Sanctioned Simplicity: Keep your ingredients minimal, as Elaine's journey demonstrates that sometimes less is all you can get—but it’s what you do with it that matters. Purple Power: Purple potatoes offer a twist to the usual mashed potatoes, both visually and nutritionally, as they are rich in antioxidants. Credits: Written and Directed by: Alli Slice Elaine Martínez voiced by: Rosa Delgado Sam voiced by: Thomas Anthony Jones The Secretary of Human Rights voiced by: Dan Egan Courier voiced by: Raechel Wong

It's a true dark night of the soul, and Elaine Martínez, DDS finds herself grappling with isolation and deep self-reflection in a harsh, unforgiving prison cell. As she battles with her sanity and guilt, she is joined by the familiar voice of Sam—at least an imagined version of him—and the weight of her past decisions comes crashing down. Together, they make the best of their situation, both philosophically and culinarily, with the preparation of an unconventional meal: Prison Patê. Key Moments: Elaine reflects on her imprisonment, caught between despair and defiance, wondering if her suffering will be remembered or erased. Sam appears in Elaine's mind, challenging her to confront painful memories about her family, past choices, and the consequences of her actions. Elaine crafts a meal from the meager rations of prison food, using it as both a literal and symbolic attempt to retain her humanity. A surprise interruption at the end signals a shift in her journey, as Elaine is called to her feet by prison personnel. Prison Patê Recipe: Ingredients: 4 oz protein patê (or substitute a protein spread of your choice) Water, as available (approximately 12 oz) Instructions: Prepare: Use your fingers or any available utensil to divide the patê into small, equal portions. Savor: Take your time with each bite, making the most of the simple ingredients. Serve: Enjoy slowly, allowing yourself to reflect on both the present moment and the future ahead. Tips and Variations: Mental Resilience: Even in the darkest moments, finding small rituals like preparing a meal can help ground you and maintain a sense of control. Adaptability: As Sam advises, sometimes the most important battles are not physical, but psychological—learn to face your fears head-on. Credits: Written and Directed by: Alli SliceElaine Martínez voiced by: Rosa DelgadoSam voiced by: Thomas Anthony JonesGeneral Krause voiced by: Greg GohSinister State Official voiced by: Tyler Snodgrass

In this episode, Elaine Martínez, DDS, is thrust into the most dangerous confrontation yet. Captured and brought to the notorious Griffith Park Observatory, Elaine faces off with General Krause, the architect of California's post-apocalyptic regime. Can Elaine's spirit—and her culinary skills—survive this encounter? Key Moments: Elaine reflects on her mission as she hides near the Greek Theater, ready to infiltrate The State's HQ. Elaine is captured by Fran and Sidney, who, despite their allegiance to The State, hint at their wavering loyalty. General Krause reveals his sinister plans, offering Elaine a "deal" to cook for the State while holding her friends hostage. The episode ends with Elaine facing an impossible decision, as Krause tightens his grip on her fate. Krause’s Classic Gin Martini Recipe: Ingredients: 1.5 oz gin Dry vermouth, a splash for rinsing the glass Ice Lemon twist A few drops of bitters Instructions: Rinse a chilled martini glass with dry vermouth and discard the excess. In a carafe, combine gin and ice, stirring gently. Pour into the prepared glass and add a splash of bitters. Twist the lemon peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in. Tips and Variations: Martini Tip: Stir the gin with ice slowly to avoid diluting the drink too much. Survival Insight: In a world without luxury, simple pleasures like a well-made martini can be a reminder of the life you once had. Credits: Written & directed by: Alli Slice Elaine Martínez voiced by: Rosa Delgado Fran voiced by: Socks Whitmore Sidney voiced by: Julie Ouellette Sam voiced by: Thomas Anthony Jones General Krause voiced by: Greg Goh Courier voiced by: Raechel Wong Special Thanks: A big shoutout to our patrons for supporting the show. Join our Patreon community at ⁠Patreon.com/elainescooking⁠ for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes access. Thank you to Socks Whitmore for script consultation. Connect with Socks at sockswhitmore.com

In this episode of Elaine's Cooking Podcast for the Soul, Elaine Martínez, DDS ventures through Griffith Park, forging deeper into its mysterious realms. Today, she meets the remarkable Woodland Warriors (WWI and WWII), two preppers turned survivalists, who add a rich layer of intrigue and camaraderie to Elaine's (potentially WWIII?) ongoing quest. Key Moments: Elaine starts her day reflecting on her mission and the renewed hope of finding her friends, Sam and Joe, alive and nearby. Elaine meets the camouflaged duo, WW1 and WW2, who share insights into survival and the legend of the good-smelling siren screaming in the night. Together, they cook a Forager's Breakfast Scramble, utilizing wild ingredients found in their surroundings. Forager's Breakfast Scramble Recipe: Ingredients: Dandelion greens, two handfuls Cremini mushrooms, six or more to taste Tender shoots of wild garlic, two Eggs (4-12, whatever you can rustle up!) Instructions: Prepare Ingredients: Chop greens, mushrooms, and garlic. Cooking: In a skillet, heat canola oil, sauté the vegetables for a few minutes, then add the beaten eggs. Serve: Enjoy the hearty scramble with the backdrop of Griffith Park’s rugged landscape. Tips and Variations: Foraging Tip: Always be on the lookout for fresh, safe-to-eat wild ingredients that can enhance your meals. Survival Insight: Adaptability in cooking reflects adaptability in life—be ready to make the most out of what you have. Credits: Written by: Rosa Delgado Directed by: Alli Slice Elaine Martínez voiced by: Rosa Delgado WWI voiced by Nicky Urban WWII voiced by Coop Foster Sam voiced by Thomas Anthony Jones Jo voiced by Judith Kargbo Sinister State Official voiced by Tyler Snodgrass Courier voiced by: Raechel Wong Special Thanks: Our dedicated Patrons make this adventurous season possible. Join our Patreon community at Patreon.com/elainescooking to support and access exclusive content.