Ep 7. Family Favorites

In season 4, episode 7 of Cook's Country, titled "Family Favorites," the cast of the show takes a trip down memory lane to their childhoods and looks fondly back on the foods that their families used to make. They pay homage to classic recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation and add their own twists to make them even better.

The episode begins with an exploration of a classic family favorite: chicken and dumplings. The hosts start by discussing the history of this dish, which has been around for centuries and was often served as a hearty meal during cold winters. They then set out to make their own version, using a combination of bone-in chicken thighs and a special dumpling recipe that is both fluffy and hearty.

Next up, the hosts turn to another beloved family favorite: meatloaf. They share their personal memories of eating meatloaf as kids and talk about how this dish has evolved over time. They then set about making their own meatloaf, which incorporates a surprising ingredient: cornflakes. They claim that this addition gives the meatloaf a crunchy texture that is sure to please.

Moving on, the show takes a look at a classic Southern dish: pecan pie. The hosts delve into the history of this dessert and explain how it became a staple of Southern cuisine. They then set out to make their own version, using a pie crust recipe that is both easy and delicious. To make the filling, they use a mixture of brown sugar, corn syrup, and of course, plenty of pecans.

The next recipe on the show is for a classic Italian dish: spaghetti and meatballs. The hosts explain that this dish has become a staple of American cuisine, despite its Italian origins. They then set about making their own version of this dish, which includes a spicy meatball recipe that is sure to delight.

Finally, the hosts turn to a classic dessert that many people remember from their childhood: banana pudding. They share their own memories of eating this dish and discuss how it has become a staple of Southern cuisine. They then set out to make their own version, which includes a homemade custard recipe that is both rich and creamy.

Throughout the episode, the hosts not only share their personal memories of these beloved dishes but also provide tips and tricks for making them at home. They discuss the best ways to prepare the ingredients and offer insights into how to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. As always, the show is both informative and entertaining, offering viewers a chance to learn new recipes while also enjoying a trip down memory lane.