Ep 2. Spicy and Sour for Supper

In Cook's Country Season 10 Episode 2, titled "Spicy and Sour for Supper," host Bridget Lancaster and chef Ashley Moore take viewers on a culinary tour of spicy and sour dishes. The duo explores traditional recipes from the Sichuan province of China, as well as versions of popular American dishes with a spicy and sour twist.

The episode kicks off with a look at the origins of Sichuan cuisine, known for its use of numbing Sichuan peppercorns and fiery chilies. Bridget and Ashley share tips on cooking with these ingredients, including how to toast Sichuan peppercorns to bring out their full flavor.

The first recipe on the menu is "Spicy Sichuan Noodles," which combines noodles with a spicy and tangy sauce made from soy sauce, black vinegar, chili oil, and Sichuan peppercorns. Ashley demonstrates how to make homemade chili oil and provides tips on how to adjust the heat level to your preference.

Next up is "Chinese-Style Hot and Sour Soup," a classic Sichuan dish that's perfect for cold winter evenings. Bridget and Ashley show viewers how to make the dish at home, using ingredients like dried shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu. They also share tips on how to balance the spicy and sour flavors to achieve the perfect taste.

For a main course, the duo prepares "Sichuan-Style Shrimp with Garlic and Chili," a spicy and sour dish that's easy to make and bursting with flavor. Ashley explains how to sear the shrimp to perfection and then sauté them with garlic, ginger, chilies, and Sichuan peppercorns. The result is a dish that's both savory and comforting.

Last but not least, Bridget and Ashley give a spicy and sour twist to an American classic with their recipe for "Spicy and Sour Meatloaf." They use a blend of ground beef and ground pork, along with ingredients like ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. But they also add a spicy and sour kick with hot sauce, lime juice, and vinegar. The result is a meatloaf that's anything but ordinary.

Throughout the episode, Bridget and Ashley share their passion for cooking with bold flavors and showcase how simple ingredients can be transformed into dishes that are both delicious and satisfying. Whether you're a fan of spicy dishes or are looking to expand your culinary horizons, "Spicy and Sour for Supper" offers plenty of inspiration for your next meal.