Ep 6. Apples

In the sixth episode of the second season of "A Chef's Life," titled "Apples," viewers are taken on a culinary journey through the fascinating world of apples. As Chef Vivian Howard explores the versatility and rich history of this beloved fruit, she discovers the local apple orchards of North Carolina and showcases the various ways they are used in her kitchen at the Chef & the Farmer restaurant.

The episode begins with a breathtaking aerial view of the picturesque apple orchards that dot the landscape of North Carolina. Vivian explains how apples are not traditionally associated with this region, and she is excited to delve into their local cultivation and culinary significance.

We are then introduced to two local apple growers, John and Amy, who own and operate Bluebird Orchards. Vivian sits down with them to learn about the different apple varieties they offer and the challenges they face in maintaining their orchard. With over 15,000 apple trees, Bluebird Orchards is a true labor of love.

Next, Vivian takes us to the kitchen of Chef & the Farmer, where she showcases some mouthwatering apple recipes. She walks us through the process of making homemade apple butter, a staple condiment in the southern culinary tradition. Vivian highlights the importance of using a variety of apple types to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity in the final product.

Continuing her exploration, Vivian pays a visit to the North Carolina Apple Festival, an annual event celebrating the apple harvest. She immerses herself in the festival's lively atmosphere as she learns about the different apple varieties on display and takes part in the festivities. The festival offers a unique opportunity for local producers to showcase their apple products and for visitors to indulge in apple-themed treats.

Back in the kitchen, Vivian takes on the challenge of making a classic French dessert, Tarte Tatin, with a southern twist. She uses local apples and adds her own touch with a sprinkle of homemade pecan brittle. As she guides us through the steps of making this delectable dish, Vivian showcases her expertise and passion for combining traditional cooking techniques with local ingredients.

The episode takes an unexpected turn when Vivian receives a call from her mother, who informs her about a family recipe book that has been discovered. Filled with cherished recipes passed down through generations, the book becomes a treasure trove of culinary inspiration for Vivian. She finds a special apple-based recipe from her ancestors that she is determined to recreate in her own kitchen.

Vivian reaches out to her friend, Chef Ben, for some guidance on how to bring the old family recipe to life. With his invaluable expertise, they embark on a journey to recreate a forgotten apple dish. Through trial and error, they experiment with various apple varieties and cooking techniques until they achieve a result that is true to the original flavors described in the recipe book.

The episode concludes with Vivian reflecting on the meaningful experience of rediscovering her family's culinary heritage through apples. She emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional recipes and how they connect us to our past and cultural identity.

In "Apples," viewers are treated to a captivating exploration of the beloved fruit, as Chef Vivian Howard delves deep into the world of apples, from local orchards to her own kitchen. With her infectious passion for cooking, Vivian showcases the versatility of apples and their ability to be incorporated into both sweet and savory dishes. Through her culinary discoveries and personal journey, Vivian reminds us of the rich history and sentimental value that can be found in our family recipes.