Watch Cook's Country

Cook's Country is a cooking show hosted by Christopher Kimball which premiered on the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) in 2008. The show is produced by the same team that produces America's Test Kitchen, and is a spin-off of the popular cooking show. The premise of Cook's Country is to explore and celebrate the regional food of America. Each episode focuses on a particular type of cuisine, type of dish or ingredient, or a particular region within the United States. The show is set in a rustic farmhouse kitchen in Vermont, and the production features a team of test cooks and experts who conduct rigorous testing, trial and error, and experimentation to develop and perfect recipes inspired by American traditions.

The show features a number of recurring segments, including a "Tasting Lab" where the hosts taste-test and rate various brands of products such as bacon or chocolate, and a "Cooking Class" where the hosts demonstrate a particular technique, such as how to deep fry chicken or how to make biscuits from scratch. Another popular segment is the "Crowd-Pleasing Classics" where the hosts showcase recipes for popular American dishes such as macaroni and cheese, meatloaf, or pot roast.

One unique aspect of Cook's Country is the way in which the show explores the stories behind traditional American dishes. The hosts take viewers on a journey through time and place, tracing the origins and evolution of classic dishes and exploring the cultural and historical context in which they were developed. For example, in one episode, the hosts explore the history and variations of clam chowder across America, from the creamy New England-style to the tomato-based Manhattan-style.

The show also places great emphasis on the ingredients used in cooking, and frequently features segments on sourcing, selecting, and properly preparing different types of ingredients. Additionally, the show highlights the use of traditional cooking methods and techniques, such as using cast iron skillets or cooking over an open fire.

Cook's Country features a wide range of recipes, from classic comfort foods to more complex, sophisticated dishes. Some of the most popular recipes on the show include "Foolproof Standing Rib Roast," "Perfect Pot Roast," "Buttermilk Fried Chicken," "Southern-style Biscuits," "Homemade Pizza," and "Chocolate Eclairs."

The show is well-known for its attention to detail and rigorous approach to testing and recipe development. Each recipe is tested repeatedly in the show's test kitchen, with the goal of developing foolproof recipes that are accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. The hosts also make a point of testing each recipe with a variety of equipment, from high-end professional-grade tools to basic kitchen equipment that most home cooks are likely to have.

Overall, Cook's Country is a charming and informative cooking show that is both educational and entertaining. The show's emphasis on American cuisine and tradition, as well as its attention to detail and rigorous testing process, make it a unique and compelling addition to the world of cooking shows. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, Cook's Country offers something for everyone, with its hearty, satisfying recipes and engaging hosts who are passionate about sharing their love of food with viewers.

Cook's Country is a series that ran for 17 seasons (219 episodes) between December 21, 2024 and on PBS