Ep 8. Modern Comfort Food: Good Cheese
- December 19, 2021
In this episode of Barefoot Contessa, host Ina Garten explores the world of modern comfort food and shares her love of cheese. The episode begins with Ina visiting a local cheese shop in East Hampton to choose some of her favorite cheeses for her upcoming recipes.
Ina begins with a recipe for a classic French dish, Croque Monsieur, but with her own twist. She starts by making a bechamel sauce and adding Gruyere cheese to create a creamy and flavorful filling. She then assembles the sandwiches with bread, ham, and more cheese before toasting them in the oven until crispy and golden brown. Ina also shares a variation on this classic dish, Croque Madame, by adding a fried egg on top of the sandwich.
Next, Ina creates a delicious tomato and gruyere tart. She starts with a homemade tart shell and then layers on a mixture of caramelized onions, herbs, and tomatoes. She finishes the tart with a generous amount of grated gruyere cheese before baking it to perfection.
For her third recipe, Ina creates a twist on a beloved comfort food classic, mac and cheese. She uses a combination of cheddar and Gruyere cheeses to create a rich and velvety sauce. She also adds a layer of breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
Lastly, Ina shares her recipe for a decadent cheese board, perfect for any occasion. She chooses a variety of cheeses, including Gouda, Manchego, and Roquefort, and pairs them with homemade crackers, bread, and fruit. She also adds some honeycomb for a sweet contrast to the savory cheeses.
Throughout the episode, Ina explains her love for cheese and shares her tips and tricks for using different types of cheese in her recipes. She emphasizes the importance of using high-quality cheese and encourages viewers to visit their local cheese shop to try new varieties.
Overall, this episode of Barefoot Contessa is a celebration of cheese and its many uses in modern comfort food. Ina's recipes are delicious and approachable, making them perfect for any home cook looking to try something new. Whether making a classic croque monsieur or a decadent cheese board, viewers are sure to be inspired by Ina's love for cheese and her creative recipes.