199 The Foremost Wild Food Authority and His Favorite Taco

Typically, I introduce episodes with a nostalgic story, inviting you all on an emotional journey with me - but I've opted out of that today as it doesn't quite fit. Today's episode isn't about the past or the bittersweet memories of loved ones lost -

Rather, it celebrates a friendship rooted in mutual respect and action - action to preserve the skills, wisdom, and cuisine of past generations.

Today, Hank Shaw, owner of the world's biggest wild food site, is sharing a recipe made by his great friend, Patricio Wise. Patricio is a former finance professional, successful serial restaurateur, and immigrant from the Nuevo León region of Mexico to Sacramento, California-and the spontaneous creator of today's recipe: the Deathbed Tacos, so named because Hank would choose them for his last meal and "die happy".

As for our guest, Hank - well, Patricio himself shared these words about Hank in an introduction to Hank's latest book, Borderlands:

Hank used to work as a political reporter, underpaid by his own accounts, and would for years live off the fish and seafood he could catch himself. He has since become, in my not-so-humble opinion, the foremost authority on wild food in the United States. His blog won a James Beard Award in 2013 and if you've ever heard him talk about foraging, fishing, or hunting, you know the man doesn't just read about things-he does them….

But what really sets Hank apart isn't just the encyclopedic knowledge-it's the storytelling. He has this way of weaving personal experience with fact, of grounding hard research in soft dirt. And nowhere is that clearer than in Borderlands. One of the things that struck me most is how he managed to capture the spirit of the people who live in this liminal space between the U.S. and Mexico. People like me, who grew up in Monterrey with Sunday carne asadas… People who know that food isn't just about sustenance-it's about identity. Culture and story. Hank gets that. He gets us.

Now, having heard from Patricio about Hank, we welcome Hank to tell us more about Patricio and these birthday tacos that Patricio invented one sweltering night in Sacramento.

Listen to Hank Shaw Now

Follow The Storied Recipe in Your Favorite Player

Hank Shaw's Storied Recipe: Favorite Tacos with Ribeye or Venison

Thai Breakfast Rice Porridge with Crispy Garlic & Pork (Thai Jok or Congee)

Connect with Hank Shaw

Hank's website Hunter Angler Gardener Cook
Order Hank's new cookbook Borderlands
Listen to Hank's podcast episode with Chef Patricio Wise as they talk all about Mexican Cuisine.

The Storied Recipe Newsletter

The Storied Recipe is a community that believes food is a universal love language. Join for episode & recipe updates every Friday mornings. (And occasional free gifts!)