Ep 1. Backyard Barbacoa

Bobby Flay's Barbecue Addiction season 3 episode 1, Backyard Barbacoa, takes viewers on a culinary journey to explore the flavors of traditional Mexican barbacoa. As the name suggests, Bobby transforms his backyard into a Mexican-inspired wonderland complete with colorful decorations and spicy aromas wafting about. From the get-go, Bobby is already cooking up a storm with guajillo chile paste and Adobo sauce that he uses to marinate his beef brisket.

Bobby's guest for this episode is Chef Hugo Ortega, an expert in Mexican cuisine with many accolades under his belt. The two chefs get to work immediately, preparing every element of a traditional barbacoa meal from scratch. They start with the beef brisket, which they cut into large chunks and marinate in the spicy Adobo sauce. The meat is then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked low and slow in a pit dug in Bobby's backyard. The result is tender, flavorful meat that falls off the bone.

Next up, the chefs make their own tortillas using masa harina and water. They cook them on an open flame until they are slightly charred and crispy. The tortillas are the perfect accompaniment to the barbacoa, providing a slightly sweet flavor that balances out the spice.

Bobby is especially enthusiastic about the side dishes for this meal, which take traditional Mexican flavors and give them a unique twist. For example, he makes a sweet potato salad with chipotle mayonnaise and lime dressing, giving the dish a smoky, tangy flavor. The chefs also prepare a refreshing cucumber salad with jicama, which adds a crunchy texture to the dish.

As the chefs prepare the food, they take a moment to educate viewers on the history of barbacoa in Mexico. It is a dish that dates back hundreds of years and was traditionally prepared by burying it in a pit with hot coals and banana leaves. The chefs discuss how barbacoa has evolved over time and how it is now an integral part of Mexican cuisine.

Once the food is ready, Bobby and Chef Ortega sit down to enjoy the fruits of their labor. They discuss the flavors of each dish and how they can be recreated at home. They also talk about the importance of experimenting with traditional flavors and making them your own.

Overall, Bobby Flay's Barbecue Addiction season 3 episode 1, Backyard Barbacoa, is a must-watch for lovers of Mexican cuisine and barbecue alike. It is a celebration of the rich flavors and history of barbacoa, brought to life by two talented chefs who are passionate about their craft.