Ep 1. Cooking for Jeffrey: Jeffrey's Birthday Dinner

In the season 22 premiere episode of Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten cooks up a special birthday dinner for her husband Jeffrey. The episode titled "Cooking for Jeffrey: Jeffrey's Birthday Dinner" features Ina planning and preparing a delicious meal for Jeffrey's birthday celebration with good food, company, and a beautiful table setting.

Ina starts off by visiting a local cheese shop to pick up a selection of cheeses for an appetizer. She also makes a homemade fig and walnut paste to serve with the cheese, creating a tasty and sophisticated starter.

Next, Ina prepares a classic French dish, lamb chops with a mustard sauce. She starts by seasoning the lamb with salt, pepper, and herbs before searing it in a hot pan. She then finishes it off in the oven and serves it with a tangy mustard sauce made with white wine, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Ina also makes a side dish of roasted baby potatoes with garlic and herbs to complement the lamb.

For dessert, Ina bakes a delicious berry tart with homemade pastry cream. She creates a beautiful lattice crust for the tart using fresh raspberries and blackberries for a pop of color. The pastry cream is made with vanilla bean and fresh berries, creating a sweet and creamy filling to complement the tart crust.

Throughout the episode, Ina shares tips and tricks for entertaining at home, including how to create a beautiful table setting with fresh flowers and simple yet elegant place settings. She emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and preparing as much as possible in advance in order to enjoy the company of your guests.

Overall, "Cooking for Jeffrey: Jeffrey's Birthday Dinner" is a delightful episode full of delicious food and entertaining inspiration. Ina Garten's love for food and cooking is evident in every dish she prepares, and her warm and welcoming personality makes it easy to follow along and learn from her expertise. This episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves great food and enjoys entertaining at home.