Ep 6. Chili and Cornbread
- October 10, 2009
In season 2 episode 6 of Cook's Country, titled "Chili and Cornbread," the focus is on classic, hearty American comfort food. The episode starts with host Christopher Kimball tasting some different types of chili in order to determine the perfect base flavor for the show's ultimate chili recipe. He decides on a combination of ground beef and pork for depth of flavor, along with chili powder, cumin, and paprika for a smoky, earthy flavor. The recipe also includes canned tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and kidney beans for a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
After preparing the chili, the show moves on to making cornbread to serve alongside it. Cook's Country uses a cast-iron skillet and a mix of cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt for their recipe, which they note is less sweet than some traditional versions of cornbread. Adding in melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs creates a rich batter that bakes up into fluffy, golden cornbread.
Next up, the focus is on toppings and side dishes to go with the chili and cornbread. The Cook's Country team tastes and analyzes different types of hot sauces, deciding on a spicy but not overpowering option to mix into the chili. They also prepare a simple coleslaw with cabbage, apple cider vinegar, and sugar for some crunch and acidity to balance out the richness of the chili and cornbread.
Finally, the episode wraps up with a showcase of viewer-submitted chili cook-off recipes. The Cook's Country staff taste and evaluate each recipe, noting what sets the best ones apart and what common mistakes to avoid. This segment is a great way to get inspiration for how to put your own spin on classic chili recipes, as well as a reminder that there are endless variations out there to try.
Overall, "Chili and Cornbread" is a great episode for anyone looking to get cozy with some classic American cuisine. The Cook's Country team provides clear, easy-to-follow instructions for each step of the dish, making it accessible even for novice cooks. Viewers will come away with a thorough understanding of how to make a well-rounded chili and cornbread meal, as well as some tips and tricks for customizing the recipe to suit their own taste.
