The genre I am currently studying is the “video recipe” sub-genre of food rhetoric.  I have been fascinated by recipes and cooking since I can remember, and video recipes are just a simpler yet more visually appealing way to view recipes.  There are a few key characteristics of video recipes that differentiate them from normal, primarily text-based recipes.  For example, video recipes are always in picture format.  They can be viewed as videos, with sound, or GIF images (which are essentially looping videos without sound, in an easily transferable format).  Video recipes also usually include supplementary text throughout the video, usually containing more detail than the video itself, such as specific directions, ingredient identification, or special techniques.  It is difficult to categorize video recipes by factors such as gender, politics, or race, but one way that an identity can be established is through the type of food made.  If a video recipe for saag paneer is made, one could test for authenticity.  It is more likely that a culturally knowledgeable Indian chef could create a more authentic saag paneer than a Caucasian home-cook who is interested in Indian cuisine.  Because of this, checking the comments of the video or other forms of feedback is necessary to gauge whether a recipe is truly authentic, and, thus, acceptable.

 

Here are a few texts that I think do a good job of showcasing the archetypes of the video recipe sub-genre:

 

Steak with Garlic Butter – This video was also my mentor text.  I felt that it did a great job of simplifying a recipe usually seen as daunting to many aspiring chefs.  It also contains a relatively unique feature in this sub-genre: a special technique is shown to test the doneness of a steak.

Easy Butter Chicken – I felt that this video did a good job of the controversial “ethnic recipe.”  There is a noticeable amount of comments criticizing the authenticity of the recipe.  Some claim “that is no way near the real [recipe]” and others give tips like “just add ginger and garlic paste while marinating chicken and few table spoon of yogurt.”

PB&J Doughnut Holes – I chose to include this recipe because it is in a GIF format.  This is a good demonstration of the accessibility of video recipes.  There is also a video version of this recipe, which is the original, on Tasty’s YouTube channel.  Another great part of this recipe which is seen in many other video recipes is the beautiful cross-section which many recipes include.

Chicken Poppers 4 Ways –  This video recipe contains 4 different spin-offs of the same recipe in one video.  Great for someone who is picky and will only make one, or someone who wants to try all of the options.

5 Minute Mug Pizza – This recipe is a crude yet satisfying way to make a classic favorite.  Simple yet seemingly delicious (also not made by BuzzFeed).

 

One question I have for my classmates is: what is your favorite video recipe?  And furthermore, why is it your favorite?