Waffles + Mochi may be targeted to the preschool set, but in the grand tradition of the best of kids’ entertainment (we’re looking at you, Muppet Show and Phineas and Ferb), it’s a perfectly entertaining and engaging way for grownups to spend a few hours, too. The premise is simple: Waffles (the love child of a frozen waffle and a Yeti) and Mochi (a tiny, squeaky little sweet treat) ventured out from their land of frozen food in a quest to become great chefs—and they get a job at the supermarket run by Michelle Obama (or “Mrs. O”). Every story revolves around a different simple ingredient (including tomatoes, potatoes, and corn), encouraging kids to play with and explore new foods, with a life and kindness lesson neatly folded into the mix. So what’s in it for adults? You could definitely do worse than traveling with them in their MagiCart to explore the mountains of Peru and the cities of Japan. And watching people harvest salt or bash rice into a soft dough is soothing ASMR TV for grownups, too. It’s missing a few (I’d particularly like José Andrés’ take on gazpacho, please), but if you’re already sick of sourdough and are wary of the latest TikTok cooking fad, cooking your way through these recipes wouldn’t be a bad way to spend your Sundays. And guest starts like Zach Galifinakis, Rashida Jones, and Sia (singing as a tomato), add an extra dose of fun, too.
