A video showing prison inmates cooking deep fried chicken in their jail cell has gone viral on social media, sparking mixed reactions from viewers. The video, which was posted on YouTube, shows an inmate preparing and frying chicken pieces in a crockpot inside their cell. The inmates seem to have all the ingredients needed for the dish, including the breading, spices, oil, and even plates to eat on.
The video has attracted thousands of comments, with some people expressing admiration for the inmates’ culinary skills and creativity, while others questioning how they managed to get the supplies and equipment in the first place. Some also wondered how the prison guards did not notice or stop the cooking activity, which could pose a fire hazard or a security breach. It’s alleged that the inmate who cooked the deep fried chicken was selling it for $25 a plate.
The video is not the first of its kind to show inmates cooking in their cells using improvised methods and materials. In fact, there is a whole genre of prison cooking videos on YouTube, featuring dishes such as fish and chicken nachos, grilled cheese sandwiches, and even pizza. Some of these videos are hosted by former inmates who share their recipes, and stories from their time behind bars.
Prison cooking videos have been described as a form of entertainment, education, and survival for inmates and viewers alike. They showcase the ingenuity and resourcefulness of prisoners who have to make do with limited and often substandard food options. They also reveal the hidden culture and economy of prison life, where food items can be traded, smuggled, or stolen from the commissary or other sources.
Prison cooking videos raise questions about the conditions and regulations of correctional facilities, especially in the US, where incarceration rates are among the highest in the world. Some critics argue that prison food is inadequate, unhealthy, and dehumanizing, and that inmates should have access to better nutrition and quality of life. Others contend that prison cooking is a privilege that should not be abused or exploited by inmates who have committed crimes and should face the consequences.
Regardless of one’s stance on prison cooking, it is undeniable that these videos have captured the attention and curiosity of many people on social media. They offer a glimpse into a world that is often hidden from public view, and challenge the stereotypes and assumptions about prison inmates and their lives. They also demonstrate how food can be a source of comfort, joy, and creativity, even in the most unlikely and unfavorable circumstances.
If you were in prison, would you buy another inmate’s deep fried chicken for $25?
