Nikita Ephanov
School
Southern Methodist University
Expertise
Cultural Exploration Of Regional Foods, Specialty Coffee, Spirits And Mixology
- Empowered by travels to over 40 countries, Nikita loves exploring the cooking techniques and ingredients particular to a place.
- Nikita is passionate about finding the best cup of coffee nearby, which has led him to interview some of the world's most recognized baristas.
- He also loves to collect rare regional spirits, both for sipping straight and crafting into unique cocktails for his friends.
Experience
Nikita has written on food, coffee, technology, and travel for publications like Eater, Intrepid Times, and Sliced, as well as served as a staff writer for Cyberpunks and CoffeeGeek. His work focuses on inclusivity and cultural diversity, emphasizing food as a vehicle for the shared human experience. He believes eating someone's offerings is sensing their story through flavor: whether told by a remarkable chef or sung by the noteworthy voices of ordinary people. As a cook, traveler, and dedicated researcher, he strives to bridge the gap between the unfamiliar, trending, and accessible.
Education
Nikita graduated with an applied mathematics degree from Southern Methodist University. While unrelated to food writing, he loves pursuing interdisciplinary perspectives and applying analytical thinking to food reportage.
Tasting Table’s editorial coverage hails from a veteran group of writers and editors with expertise in their respective fields in the food and drink, hospitality, and agriculture industries. Outside experts are also consulted to help deliver factual, up-to-date information and original recipes.
We strive to publish knowledgeable, engaging articles to give readers the information they're looking for, whether that is the news of the day; cooking tips, tricks, and trends; or reviews and recommendations. In an effort to provide the most comprehensive, current, and accurate content, our team is constantly reviewing and updating articles as necessary. Click here for more information on our editorial process.
Stories By Nikita Ephanov
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If you love a warm and comforting cocktail, then the Tom and Jerry is the drink for you. Let's learn all about the eggnog-adjacent sling.
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The espresso martini may be having its moment, but don't over look the barraquito. The cocktail features espresso, citrus, cinnamon, Licor 43 and more.
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Instant coffee gets a bad reputation sometimes, but there are tiny mistakes that you might be making that make an instant cup worse than it would be otherwise
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The terminology around alcoholic beverages can get complicated and overwhelming fast. So, what exactly is the difference between a spirit and a liquor?
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Each state has its own rules pertaining to liquor, as well as wildly different taxation policies. The state with the cheapest whiskey will surprise you.
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Nigiri and onigiri are both Japanese foods that prominently feature rice, and they even have similar sounding names, but they differ strongly in other ways.
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Celery's celery, right? Well, wrong, actually. There are two quite distinct varieties of the bitter stalks, and they're used in recipes quite differently, too.
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Lakes and kugel are key foods served during Jewish holidays. They are both super comforting and moreish carb-based dishes, but how are they different?
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Making the perfect iced coffee isn't as simple as it may seem. Find out what to do instead of pouring hot espresso directly over ice, plus more handy tips.
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If you like your pork chops seared with a well-developed and flavorful crust, dry brining is the way to go. Here's why.
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America certainly has a love affair with bacon. The pork treat comes in many different cuts, learn the differences between center cut and regular bacon.
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Have you ever wanted to make a fancy cocktail but found yourself without the tools? Don't worry, a common kitchen utensil can sub in and get the job done.
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Gin with tonic is a classic cocktail, but gin and soda is also another great pairing. Learn the differences between drinking gin with each one.
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When picking up canned tuna, it's easy to fall into the habit of choosing the big name brands by default, but generic brands are worth a look.
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Bourbon pairs especially well with pork, playing with sweet and smokey flavors in a sauce, marinade, or glaze. However, you'll want to add a splash carefully.
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It's no secret that some of Costco's Kirkland brand booze manufacturers are, in fact, secret. But we now know who makes their Kirkland spiced rum.
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They might sound like slightly different names for the same thing, but coconut cream and cream of coconut are completely different and serve different purposes.
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Sake is one of the most popular Japanese beverages, but there is proper etiquette when pouring it. Learn the specific rituals you must do when drinking sake.
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While they can seem similar at first glance, the difference between crudo and sashimi is vast in terms of meats used, preparation style, and even origins.
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At its heart, the Paloma is a simple cocktail with just two ingredients, but its history is a little blurry, as you may be if you drink too many fancy versions.
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Enchiladas are a ubiquitous menu item at Mexican restaurants across the country. But this Mexican food staple actually has origins in the Aztec empire.
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Creme de cacao chocolate liqueur has two different versions: One dark the other clear. So what do they taste like, and what other differences do they have?
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You may recognize these tiny, kaleidoscopic candies from popular Japanese anime shows, tokens in Nintendo games, and as a feature in the film 'Spirited Away.'
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Bulgarian banitsa had a lot in common with the Eurasian burek, but what differentiates these two tasty pastries?
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We all love margaritas, but there are many other cocktails that make great use of tequila, like the Batanga. You'll fall in love with this sweet/salty cocktail.
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One of the most important parts of a home bar is making sure you know how long all your bottles are going to last. Find out how to best store sweet liqueurs.
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Revolutionize your sushi game by ditching the rice, using cucumbers as your new base. Explore limitless fish and garnish options for this fresh twist.