The Katering Show

The Katering Show is a standout, wacky cooking series like no other. This Australian web-series, which was streamed on Fullscreen network from 2015 to 2016, is a delightful blend of design, cooking, and comedy that takes viewers on an unexpected journey through the culinary world. The show is distinctly characterized by its parody of current food trends and the television cooking show culture. It perfectly blends satire and actual cooking, producing a result that is as humorous as it is informative.

Hosted by comedians Kate McCartney and Kate McLennan, affectionately known to their audience as 'The Kates,' The Katering Show sets out to be more than just a mainstream cooking show. Both hosts bring unique, refreshing flavors to the table, each showcasing their various food allergies and dietary restrictions. McLennan is an overly enthusiastic foodie who can't get enough of complex recipes and high-end ingredients. McCartney, on the other hand, is a food-intolerant anti-foodie; she can literally only eat certain items in her diet as the erroneous ones leave her sick. The juxtaposition between their differing styles brings a humorous take to the show which makes it irresistibly appealing to viewers.

Each episode usually revolves around a specific culinary theme, food trend, or ingredient. From exploring the challenges and humor in dietary restrictions to astute observations on culinary culture, each episode of The Katering Show is an unpredictable adventure.

McLennan often ventures into trying newer and complex recipes, showcasing her food-aspiration in the beautiful kitchen as she works cheerfully with various exotic ingredients. Meanwhile, McCartney usually ends up creating something that suits her limited diet, often with humorous results. Both Kates provide commentary throughout their cooking exploits, offering witty observations and jokes that are often at their own expense. These moments of self-deprecation, combined with an evident chemistry between the hosts, provide the backbone for the show's endearing charm and humor.

The show doesn't just offer delicious recipes; it also serves a hefty portion of comedy. The Katerings' humor is both subtle and overt, with critical insight and satirical takedowns of various food trends, lifestyles, and their own cooking skill levels.

The Katering Show also offers its fair share of educational moments, in addition to all the humor. It educates audiences about food sustainability, ethical consumption, and how to make smart and informed decisions in the kitchen. While doing so, the show maintains its light-hearted approach, ensuring that the lessons don't feel preachy and are intertwined seamlessly with the humor.

The Kates not only satirize food culture but also take jabs at the cooking show format itself. The stylish and high-end camera work often seen in cooking shows is parodied, with the cinematography punctuated by deliberate awkward close-ups and sudden shot changes. The usual enthusiastic commentary common in cooking shows is also parodied, with both Kates often displaying exaggerated enthusiasm or bemused confusion.

In the short span from 2015 to 2016, The Katering Show managed to tap into a relatable narrative for many viewers. Whether it's McCartney's depiction of food intolerance or McLennan's near-obsession with cooking, there's something on the show everyone can resonate with, making it a delight to watch for a wide audience range.

In its essence, The Katering Show is a wonderfully unconventional series that turns the traditional cooking show format on its head. The blend of satirical comedic content with genuine cooking instructions makes for a show that's as educational as it is entertaining. As the host's journey through food culture with unabashed humor and light-heartedness, they transform cooking from a mundane task into a delightful culinary adventure. Whether you're a dedicated foodie or a humble home cook, The Katering Show is one wild, culinary ride that's guaranteed to leave you in stitches.