Ep 9. Irish Staples

In season 22 episode 9 of America's Test Kitchen, titled "Irish Staples," the team at the test kitchen explores the traditional flavors and ingredients of Irish cuisine. In this episode, viewers will witness the chefs take on classic Irish staples, both savory and sweet.

The episode begins with a mouth-watering recipe for Irish soda bread. The chefs explain the origins of this traditional bread and why baking soda is the key ingredient that sets it apart from other types of bread. They demonstrate how to make the perfect loaf, explaining the science behind each step of the process. Viewers will learn about the importance of flour, the differences between baking soda and baking powder, and how to get that perfect crust.

Next, the chefs turn their attention to a classic Irish breakfast dish – black pudding. This traditional sausage is surprisingly easy to make, and the team at America's Test Kitchen puts their own spin on it by adding a few unique ingredients. They experiment with different types of fat and spices to create a rich, flavorful sausage that is sure to impress any breakfast guest.

Moving on to one of Ireland's most iconic dishes – shepherd's pie. The chefs explore what makes a shepherd's pie truly authentic, and they share their own techniques for elevating this homey classic. They explain the importance of building layers of flavor, from the perfectly seared ground beef to the rich, creamy mashed potatoes on top. This is a recipe that will have viewers running to the kitchen to recreate their own version.

No Irish menu would be complete without a dessert course, and the team at America's Test Kitchen has come up with a show-stopping recipe for apple and cheddar pie. This unexpected combination of sweet and savory is a nod to Ireland's great cheese-making tradition. The chefs explain how to balance the flavors so that the sharp cheddar cheese doesn't overpower the sweetness of the apples. This is a pie that will have viewers rethinking their go-to dessert recipes.

Throughout the episode, the chefs share their tips and tricks for getting the most out of each recipe. They explain the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to let flavors develop. They also offer suggestions for variations and substitutions, so viewers can customize the recipes to their own tastes.

One of the standout moments of the episode is when the chefs explore the history of the Irish potato famine and its impact on Irish cuisine. They explain how the lack of variety in the Irish diet during this time of crisis led to a stigma against potatoes that persists to this day. They also demonstrate a few innovative ways to prepare potatoes that show just how versatile and delicious they can be.

Overall, "Irish Staples" is a celebration of the rich flavors and comforting dishes that define Irish cuisine. Whether viewers are looking to try their hand at a classic recipe or simply want to learn more about the history and culture behind these iconic dishes, this episode has something for everyone.