Ep 2. What's Cooking in Brooklyn

In Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics season 9 episode 2, titled "What's Cooking in Brooklyn," host Ina Garten takes viewers on a culinary journey to her hometown of Brooklyn, New York. In this episode, Garten revisits her roots and shares some of her favorite classic Brooklyn recipes.

The episode begins with Garten showcasing some of the iconic ingredients that Brooklyn is known for, such as fresh seafood, artisanal bread, and locally grown produce. She also takes a trip to one of the city's oldest and most famous Brooklyn-based markets, where she picks up some fresh ingredients for her recipes.

The first dish on the menu is a classic Brooklyn-style pizza, which Garten makes from scratch starting with the dough. She shows viewers how to roll out the dough, top it with fresh tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, and bake it to perfection in her home oven. The end result is a delicious, crispy pizza that's perfect for any occasion.

Next up, Garten shares her recipe for a classic egg salad sandwich, which she combines with some homemade mayonnaise and layers on fresh, whole wheat bread. She also makes a side of coleslaw to go along with the sandwich, using fresh cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing made from vinegar, mustard, and mayo.

Afterward, Garten whips up a batch of homemade hummus, using chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. She also prepares a platter of fresh vegetables, including carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, to dip into the hummus.

Finally, Garten ends the episode with a dessert: a classic Brooklyn-style cheesecake. She demonstrates how to make the graham cracker crust, mix the cream cheese filling, and bake the cheesecake to a creamy perfection. She also adds a sweet raspberry topping and some fresh whipped cream to finish off the dessert.

Throughout the episode, Garten shares personal stories about her experiences growing up in Brooklyn and how the city's diverse cuisine influenced her as a chef. She also offers helpful tips and tricks for viewers looking to recreate these classic Brooklyn dishes in their own kitchens.

Overall, "What's Cooking in Brooklyn" is a delightful episode that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of this iconic New York City borough. With Garten's expert guidance and delicious recipes, viewers will be inspired to try their hand at making their own Brooklyn-style dishes at home.