Ep 14. Cook Like a Pro: Only Oranges

In season 27 episode 14 of Barefoot Contessa, titled "Cook Like a Pro: Only Oranges," Ina Garten explores the versatility of oranges in her cooking. She starts by making a refreshing and easy orange-infused olive oil cake. Ina explains that using a flavored oil instead of butter in the cake batter adds a subtle and delicate orange flavor to the dessert.

Next, Ina demonstrates how to make a simple yet elegant citrus salad with oranges, grapefruit, and avocado. She emphasizes the importance of using the right tools to properly cut and segment the fruits and arranges them beautifully on a platter.

Ina also creates a savory orange roasted duck dish. She brines the duck overnight to ensure that it remains juicy and flavorful and then glazes it with a mixture of orange zest, honey, and soy sauce. Ina offers tips on how to carve the duck properly and suggests serving it with roasted oranges, which provide a nice contrast of flavors and textures.

To round out the citrus-themed episode, Ina prepares an orange-braised pork belly dish. She uses a combination of orange juice and chicken stock to slowly braise the pork belly until it is tender and succulent. Ina also adds sliced oranges and onions to the dish for an extra layer of flavor and color. She serves the pork belly with whipped sweet potatoes, another seasonal favorite.

Throughout the episode, Ina shares her expert tips on selecting and preparing oranges for various dishes. She also offers helpful insights on how to balance the sweetness and acidity of the fruit in each recipe to achieve a perfectly balanced dish.

As always, Ina's warm and inviting personality shines through as she shares her love for cooking with her viewers and invites them to try these delicious orange-inspired recipes at home. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, there's something to learn and enjoy in this episode of Barefoot Contessa.